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Velvet Digest

What is the spring for on a cocktail strainer?

Author

Christopher Harper

Updated on June 22, 2026

The spring traps large chunks or slivers of ice and other solid ingredients, such as muddled fruit or mint leaves. Julep strainer—so named because it was originally meant to serve mint juleps.

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In this manner, why do cocktail strainers have springs?

A cocktail strainer is a metal bar accessory used to remove ice from a mixed drink as it is poured into the serving glass. The rim of the strainer does not need to touch the rim of the glass, as the spring inside filters out the ice.

Also, what strainers are used when making cocktails? There are three primary types of cocktails strainers; the Hawthorne Strainer, the Julep strainer and the fine mesh strainer. Each bar strainer has its own application, which we'll address as we get into the details surrounding each type.

Similarly, why do you need a strainer for cocktails?

Many cocktail recipes require ingredients to be mixed in a cocktail shaker with ice. To ensure ice cubes or chunks don't enter the glass, a strainer provides a barrier for these large ingredients while allowing the liquid to pour out.

How many types of shakers are there?

3 Types

Related Question Answers

What does it mean to double strain a cocktail?

Double or Fine Straining This technique is often used when the cocktail is mixed using torn herbs and other small, solid ingredients that are not desired in the final drink. To double strain, place your regular strainer in or on the cocktail shaker and hold a fine mesh strainer by its handle over your glass.

What is a julep strainer for?

Traditionally, the julep strainer is used when straining a cocktail from a mixing glass, and the Hawthorne when straining from a mixing tin. The reason is simple: The julep strainer fits a mixing glass better than a Hawthorne does, and the Hawthorne's a better fit than a julep when using a tin.

How do you shake a cocktail?

How to Shake
  1. Pour the ingredients into a cocktail shaker or mixing glass (if using a Boston shaker).
  2. Fill the shaker with ice (some bartenders to do this before pouring).
  3. Secure the lid or shaker tin.
  4. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on each piece) and shake vigorously over your shoulder.

What types of glasses are commonly used in bars?

We recommended stocking the bar with at least two each of the most common types of glasses: highball, double old-fashioned, margarita, martini, champagne, and red and white wine glasses. Besides showcasing the drinks they're designed for, you can use barware and cocktail glasses for different purposes.

How do you use a muddler?

Place your ingredients in the bottom of a cocktail shaker or mixing glass. Some cocktails are muddled directly in the serving glass. Gently press down and give a half-turn of the muddler. Release and continue this motion until the ingredients are sufficiently muddled.

What is the difference between a Boston shaker and a cocktail shaker?

The Boston shaker is the Major League. It's the cocktail shaker of choice for most bartenders and true cocktail apprentices. The Boston shaker consists of a shaking metal tin and a mixing glass tin but has no built-in strainer. To unseal you have to tap the side of the metal tin.

What do you use strainer for?

Strainer. A kitchen device that is most used to strain liquids away from other ingredients but also to ocassionally sift fine ingredients away from larger ingredients. The Strainer may be formed as a spoon-shaped utensil or a basket-shaped strainer from various materials such as metal, nylon or cloth.

Does Walmart sell cocktail shakers?

3 Piece Bar Cocktail Shaker Kit - Walmart.com.

What does a cocktail muddler do?

A muddler is a bartender's tool, used like a pestle to mash—or muddle—fruits, herbs and spices in the bottom of a glass to release their flavor. Cocktails that require the use of a muddler include: Mojito made with light rum.

How much is a bar spoon?

A bar spoon holds about 5 millilitres of liquid (the same as a conventional teaspoon) or 2.5 ml of liquid (standard size in Europe). Its long handle is similar to an iced tea spoon, but is usually decorative and elegant – some variations mimic large swizzle sticks, with a disc at one end.

How do you clean a cocktail strainer?

Steps to Clean the Strainer:
  1. Plug the sink and fill it up with hot/warm water, or fill a large pot or bucket with water in the sink.
  2. Mix some dish liquid into the water.
  3. Soak the strainer in the soapy water for about 15 minutes to loosen any residue.
  4. Turn the strainer upside-down and hold it under a running faucet.

How do you use the Hawthorne strainer?

how to use a hawthorne strainer
  1. Shake your cocktail until you have reached your desired dilution ratio.
  2. Then take your Hawthorne Strainer and insert it into your Shaker tins.
  3. Strain your cocktail into your selected glassware by securing the strainer and the tin with one hand, pressing downwards to nudge the strainer into position and gently pour.

What type of cocktail shaker is the best?

Our Top Picks
  • Best Overall: Moonglow Cocktail Shaker at anthropologie.com.
  • Best for Beginners: Tablecraft Boston Shaker at Amazon.
  • Best High-Volume: Mason Jar and Stainless Steel Shaker Set at Amazon at Amazon.
  • Best Set: Copper Pineapple Bar Set at Amazon.
  • Best Classic: Julia Knight Classic Cocktail Shaker at Amazon.

Can you put a strainer in the dishwasher?

If you've REALLY neglected your strainer, let it sit in that soapy water overnight. After its soak, turn the sieve upside down under running water. If you have a dishwasher, you could use it at this point—but beware that larger food bits from other dishes can get lodged in the sieve.

Why is it called a Hawthorne strainer?

In actuality, the strainer earned its name because of its use at a bar called 'The Hawthorne. ' And yet, despite that, the Hawthorne Strainer was known as merely the 'Cocktail Strainer' until as recently as the late 20th century, when the present name reappeared right as cocktails were regaining hip status.

How do you use a Boston shaker?

The Boston Shaker can be used for shaking or stirring a cocktail. This is part of the reason it's so popular: it's a multi-tasker. When using a Boston Shaker you'll need a strainer to keep the ice and other non-liquid ingredients out of the drink while you pour it into the appropriate serving glass.

How much ice is in a cocktail shaker?

Cubes are always your best bet (as opposed to crushed ice) for chilling cocktails because they don't melt as quickly and therefore chill with less dilution. Using an ice scoop, fill the shaker ½ to ¾ full with ice, adding it right on top of the ingredients.

How big is a cocktail shaker?

There are at least three varieties of cocktail shaker: The Boston Shaker: A two-piece shaker consisting of a 28 imp fl oz or 800 ml metal bottom and traditionally a 16 imp fl oz or 450 ml glass or plastic mixing glass.

Does Lillet need to be refrigerated?

Lillet, Cocchi, and other wine-based aperitifs: Essentially fortified wines with added botanicals, these will keep their flavor for a month or two if refrigerated but will spoil much quicker at room temperature.