Dear G,
I have always felt sort of proud when we at IPB bought in 50 Julep strainers
from the US in 1999 for distibution to bartenders in our training after I had
first used them in NYC in '96 but I only use them for stirred drinks and only
for the reasons outlined.
As to the use of Hawthorn Springs.. that is a thorny issue (geddit?) with many
a late night heated debate ensuing about if one compresses the coil or not
when pouring. I belive one should not to ensure a single smooth pour whereas
many barftenders believe one should to draw the holes in the metal into play...
But still... sorry if I was harsh in my 'why would I lie?' comment.
cheers
aw