Question 1

Do I need a Hawthorne and a julep strainer?

Accepted Answer

Not to start with. A Hawthorne strainer covers shaken drinks, which is where most beginners start, and it works reasonably well for stirred drinks too if it's all you own. A julep strainer is worth adding once you're regularly making stirred classics like a Martini or Manhattan in a mixing glass, since it sits more securely in a glass than a Hawthorne's spring does.

Question 2

What is a fine mesh strainer for?

Accepted Answer

A fine mesh strainer catches small ice shards and pulp that a Hawthorne strainer's coiled spring lets through, which matters most for drinks made with muddled fruit, fresh herbs or egg white. It's typically used alongside a Hawthorne, held directly underneath it while pouring, rather than as a strainer on its own.

Question 3

Why does my Hawthorne strainer let ice through?

Accepted Answer

Usually because the coiled spring has loosened or lost its shape with regular use, or because it doesn't quite match the size of your shaker tin. Try tightening the spring slightly with your fingers, or check you're pressing it firmly against the rim as you pour. A mismatched strainer and tin is a common cause, especially with mixed-brand sets bought separately.

Question 4

Can I use a tea strainer instead of a cocktail strainer?

Accepted Answer

It works as a stand-in for fine straining, and plenty of people improvise this way before buying anything dedicated. It won't seal against a shaker tin the way a Hawthorne does, though, so you'll still need something to hold back the ice first u2014 a slotted spoon, or the shaker's own lid if it has one built in.

Question 5

How do I stop a strainer's spring going rusty?

Accepted Answer

Dry it fully after washing rather than leaving it wet in a drawer, since the coiled spring has far more surface area for moisture to sit in than the flat body of the strainer. Stainless steel resists rust well but isn't immune if left damp for long periods, particularly in a humid cupboard near a dishwasher or sink.

Strainers

Premium Hawthorne Strainer

Premium Julep Strainer

Round Hawthorne strainer

Scorpion Stainless Steel Strainer

Skull cocktail strainer, stainless steel

Spring-loaded fine strainer

Sprung Premium Julep Strainer

Stainless Steel 2 Prong Cocktail Strainer

Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Strainer

Stainless Steel Hawthorne Cocktail Strainer 2 Ear

Stainless Steel Hawthorne Cocktail Strainer 4 Ear

Stainless steel Hawthorne strainer, four prong

Stainless Steel Julep Strainer

Two-prong cocktail strainer

Vintage Copper Cocktail Strainer – 4 Prong, set of 6