When utilizing a Boston Cocktail Shaker, a Hawthorn strainer is typically required to separate the ice from the contents of the cocktail when pouring the drink. The design of a Hawthorn strainer is a flat metal surface with a circular lid surrounded by metal springs that move inward when placing the strainer on the rim of a shaker or glass. The spring mechanism allows liquid to flow while keeping ice and other large contents out of the drink.

The hawthorn strainer can hold back ice, basil and mint leaves along with fruits used as flavoring agents during the building of a cocktail.

Straining your cocktail