Strainers in the Bartending World: A Guide to Different Models and Uses*

As a bartender, it is essential to have the right tools at hand in order to create the perfect cocktails. One of the most indispensable tools in your arsenal is strainers. Let's explore different models and their uses in the bartending world.

1. Hawthorne Strainer:

The Hawthorne strainer is probably the most iconic tool for a bartender. It has a spring-loaded coil and a fine mesh that effectively filters ice and other solid ingredients from your cocktail as you pour it into the glass. It is ideal for serving cocktails containing crushed ice or other solid ingredients.

2. Fine Mesh Strainer:

Fine mesh strainers are perfect for making sure your cocktail is completely smooth and free of small particles or herbs if you're using freshly squeezed juice or mixing ingredients that might leave residue. The fine mesh ensures that your cocktail has a silky texture, which is essential for certain drinks such as the martini or daiquiri.

3. Julep Strainer:

Julep strainer looks like a spoon and is used to pour cocktails from a shaker or mixing bowl. It has small holes or slots that allow the liquid to pass while ice and other solid ingredients remain in the shaker. Julep strainers are perfect for drinks that are served without crushed ice, such as Manhattan or Negroni.

4. Conical Strainer:

Conical strainer, also known as a mesh cone strainer, is useful for filtering cocktails containing freshly squeezed juices or purées. The cone-shaped shape and the fine mesh allow pulp and pulp to be removed, resulting in a smooth and well-balanced drink. It is indispensable when making cocktails such as margaritas or mojitos.

5. Tea Strainer :

Tea strainers can also be handy in the bartending world. Although originally designed for straining tea leaves, it can also be used to filter cocktails that contain small pieces of fruit, herbs or other impurities that you want to remove before serving. It is versatile and practical to achieve a flawless cocktail experience.

Conclusion:

Whether you're a professional bartender or an enthusiastic home mixologist, strainers are essential to creating well-balanced and delicious cocktails. By choosing the right strainer for the right cocktail, you can ensure that your drink is of high quality and free of unwanted particles. So the next time you shake or stir a cocktail, remember to include the appropriate strainer to achieve the perfect drinking experience. Bowl!