Fine Strainer

A small mesh strainer used in conjunction with a Hawthorne strainer to remove fine particles like ice chips, fruit pulp, and egg white foam from cocktails.

Also called a tea strainer or double straining, this technique produces a silky-smooth cocktail free of any unwanted texture. Essential for drinks containing citrus (which creates pulp), muddled ingredients, or egg white. The fine strainer is held in one hand over the glass while the other hand pours through the Hawthorne strainer, creating a double-filtration system.

💡 Pro Tips

• Hold at an angle to maximize surface area
• Tap gently to release the last drops
• Use for any drink you want crystal clear

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the fine strain for egg white drinks
• Using a strainer with mesh too coarse
• Not cleaning thoroughly between uses

📚 Related Terms

Double Strain

A technique of pouring a shaken cocktail through both a Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer simultaneously to remove all ice chips and pulp.

Shake

A cocktail mixing method where ingredients are vigorously combined with ice in a sealed shaker to rapidly chill, dilute, and aerate the drink.

Strainer

A bar tool that separates ice and solid ingredients from the liquid cocktail when pouring into a serving glass.