I started The Double Strainer because too much know-how lives in back offices and paywalled PDFs. This project exists to keep the craft open, practical, and free — from milk washing to menu engineering — so you can bring clarity to prep, service, and training. Today’s post is both celebration and instruction: a precise recap of the year, the people who inspired us, and the practical guides, worksheets, and recipes you can put to work tonight.

In the ever-evolving world of mixology, few techniques embody both historical tradition and modern innovation as elegantly as Milk Punch, often referred to as Milk Washing. At first glance, the idea of mixing milk with spirits might sound counterintuitive. Yet, when executed properly, it produces cocktails that are not only crystal-clear but also remarkably smooth, with a velvety mouthfeel and complex layers of flavor.

Bitters are among the most indispensable yet often overlooked ingredients in the world of cocktails.

In the world of modern mixology, achieving crystal-clear flavors and pristine aesthetics is a high priority. Clarification is a technique th

Beer is one of the oldest and most beloved alcoholic beverages in the world. But while most people enjoy it straight from the bottle or poured into a frosty pint glass, there’s an entire world of mixology waiting to be explored with beer as a key ingredient. From light and effervescent lagers to bold and complex stouts, beer brings depth, texture, and carbonation to cocktails in ways that traditional mixers simply can’t.

In contemporary mixology, where ingredients are selected not merely for their sweetness but for their depth, provenance, and aromatic potential, honey has earned a place of prestige. Far beyond a simple sweetener, honey is a botanical expression of terroir, seasonality, and floral diversity. For the modern bartender, understanding the different types of honey and their sensory profiles is key to crafting thoughtful, balanced, and expressive cocktails.

In the world of mixology, innovation and experimentation often lead to exciting new flavors and techniques. One such technique that has gain

In the ever-evolving landscape of mixology, precision and innovation have become as essential as quality ingredients. One of the most exciti

Dry ice, the solid form of carbon dioxide (CO₂), has become a popular element in the world of mixology.

Sake, the iconic Japanese rice wine, has transcended its roots as a traditional beverage to become a key ingredient in modern mixology.

In recent years, the craft cocktail scene has seen a surge in innovation, largely driven by the adoption of tools and techniques borrowed from the world of gastronomy and chemistry. Among the most transformative of these tools is the Rotavapor, or rotary evaporator. Originally designed for use in chemical laboratories, the Rotavapor has become an essential instrument for forward-thinking mixologists seeking to push the boundaries of aroma, flavor, and precision.

When it comes to crafting cocktails, ginger-based mixers are some of the most versatile and flavorful ingredients a bartender can use.