Julep Strainer
A julep strainer is a perforated, bowl-shaped metal strainer with a short handle, designed to fit inside mixing glasses for straining stirred, spirit-forward cocktails while holding back ice and large solids.
A julep strainer is a perforated, bowl-shaped metal strainer with a short handle, designed to fit inside mixing glasses for straining stirred cocktails. Bartenders use it to hold back ice and large solids while pouring spirit-forward drinks like Martinis, Manhattans, Negronis, and Old Fashioneds. Despite its name, it’s rarely used for making Mint Juleps today—its original purpose was completely different.
History: From Drinking Aid to Bar Tool
The julep strainer emerged in the mid-1800s as the first purpose-built cocktail strainer, originally called an “ice spoon.” It was designed for drinkers to hold back crushed ice and mint while sipping Mint Juleps, essentially serving as a precursor to modern drinking straws. In the 19th century, ornate silver versions with scalloped edges became popular wedding and birthday gifts.
The tool’s function shifted dramatically over time. What started as a personal drinking accessory became a bartender’s essential straining tool. Ironically, modern bartenders don’t use julep strainers to make Mint Juleps—they’re now reserved for stirred cocktails in mixing glasses.
How to Use a Julep Strainer
Place the strainer inside your mixing glass after stirring your cocktail with a bar spoon. Most bartenders position it curved side down, cupping the ice, though some strainer designs work better facing up. Apply light finger pressure to hold it in place and maintain a consistent angle while pouring.
The julep strainer’s larger perforations allow more ice chips and small debris through compared to a Hawthorne strainer. Some bartenders prefer this characteristic for extra-cold cocktails. For silky-smooth texture, use double-straining: strain through the julep strainer, then through a fine mesh strainer into the glass.
Julep Strainer vs. Hawthorne Strainer
The julep strainer fits inside mixing glasses and is ideal for stirred cocktails. The Hawthorne strainer features a coiled spring and fits over cocktail shaker tins, designed for shaken drinks. This division reflects the different mixing methods: stirring for spirit-forward cocktails that should remain clear, shaking for drinks with citrus, cream, or egg whites that benefit from aeration.
While a Hawthorne strainer can technically work with a mixing glass, the julep strainer’s bowl shape provides better control and a more refined pour for stirred cocktails. Professional bartenders keep both types behind the bar for proper technique.
Choosing and Maintaining a Julep Strainer
Most julep strainers are made of stainless steel, offering durability and easy cleaning. The bowl should fit snugly inside your standard mixing glass without rattling. Test the fit before purchasing—a loose strainer makes for clumsy pours.
Wash with warm soapy water after each shift, paying attention to the perforations where citrus oils and sugar can build up. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that might scratch the surface. A well-maintained julep strainer lasts for years in a busy bar environment.
Common Uses
Bartenders use julep strainers primarily when making stirred cocktails in mixing glasses—Martinis, Manhattans, Negronis, Old Fashioneds, and other spirit-forward drinks. The strainer holds back ice and large solids while allowing the chilled liquid to pour smoothly into the serving glass. During busy bar service, bartenders grab the julep strainer specifically when they've used a mixing glass rather than a shaker tin. It's also used in double-straining techniques, where bartenders strain through both the julep strainer and a fine mesh strainer to catch any ice chips or citrus pulp for an ultra-smooth presentation. Despite its name, modern bartenders rarely use it for Mint Juleps, which are typically built directly in the serving glass.
