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The cocktail strainer is an integral part of most cocktails, and while it may seem simple enough, its history is anything but.
In fact, despite the inherent simplicity of a strainer—its job, after all, is to strain any food parts and ice chips from the drink—there are multiple types of cocktail strainer, each with a unique history: the julep strainer, the Hawthorne strainer, and the fine mesh strainer.
And while all kinds of cocktail strainers are ultimately derived from tea strainers—which have been in existence for a very long time—these specialized bar tools are a relatively modern creation.
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The Julep Strainer
The julep strainer, which resembles a large, slotted spoon, was the first cocktail strainer to come around. It first appeared in the mid-19th century, though it didn’t immediately gain popularity. The julep strainer likely evolved from perforated spoons that were used to remove fat from soup or to sprinkle sugar on desserts.
It wasn’t until the very late 1800s that the julep strainer started to become common, though it was initially known as an “ice spoon.” It didn’t officially take on the ‘strainer’ nomenclature until the turn of the 20th century.
Today, the julep strainer is less common than its younger sibling and, ironically, not used for Mint Juleps—at least not if the drink is made correctly.
Hawthorne Strainer
The Hawthorne Strainer
The Hawthorne strainer was being invented and patented right as the julep strainer was gaining popularity. Ironically, the Hawthorne strainer was first patented as… you guessed it… the “julep strainer.” The name of the Hawthorne strainer is, in fact, one of the more interesting facets of its history.
If you had to venture a guess, you’d probably think that the Hawthorne strainer was named after someone named Hawthorne; after all, the original strainers had the name “Hawthorne” emblazoned on them in perforations.
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.
Unlike many bar contraptions, such as the cocktail shaker and the wine key, the Hawthorne strainer with its handy spring contraption, and the julep strainer with its perfect perforation, have not changed or evolved very much since their inception.
Sometimes it’s best to leave good enough alone.
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The Fine Mesh Strainer
While the Hawthorne and julep strainers are essential tools in any bartender’s arsenal, the fine mesh strainer—often referred to simply as a fine strainer—plays a supporting yet crucial role in cocktail preparation. It’s most commonly used in a double-straining technique, where it catches the smaller shards of ice, fruit pulp, and herbs that a traditional cocktail strainer might miss.
The fine strainer has become increasingly popular with modern craft cocktails that emphasize clarity and presentation. Whether you’re shaking a Daiquiri or making a Whiskey Sour, this small-but-mighty strainer ensures a smooth, refined texture. It’s especially important when we’re working on drinks with fresh citrus or muddled ingredients—it’s all about delivering that perfectly clean sip.
Although it may not have the vintage charm of the julep strainer or the springy flair of the Hawthorne, the fine strainer is indispensable for precision and polish in modern mixology.
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Strain Theory: Final Thoughts on Cocktail Strainers
Every cocktail strainer brings something essential to the shaker tin (or mixing glass). These tools may seem unassuming, but their design and function are what help elevate cocktails from good to great—ensuring every sip is smooth, clean, and intentional.
As always, choosing the right tool for the job is what transforms bartending into craft.
