Pourers
Pourers (also referred to as 'free pourers' to distinguish them from dosers) are bar tools that support easy, loss-free and accurate pouring. They are simply inserted into the opening of the desired bottle - in addition to the pouring tube, which defines the flow and specifies the pouring direction, they also have a cork (usually made of plastic with circular lamellae) for a secure and drip-free fit in the bottle neck as well as an air tube, which allows air to enter the bottle to prevent negative pressure inside the bottle.
There are spouts made entirely of plastic, while other models are made entirely or partially of metal or have chrome-plated parts. The different colored designs of some product lines can help to keep track of your bottles in confusing situations. The fit of the pourers varies from model to model, which is why you should always check the dimensions of your bottlenecks beforehand.
The air tubes also vary in length. They ensure an even flow and prevent air from accumulating in the neck of the bottle and thus enabling an even flow. However, some bartenders like to regulate the air flow themselves by putting a finger over the air which brings the flow to a stop when pouring vertically.
The corks are usually made of plastic (poly cork), more rarely made of memory plastic or, with some pourers, natural cork. For regular sizes, usually replacement corks can be ordered. Although, the corks should have a secure fit in the bottle neck, the pourers are usually held in place with one finger for extra safety.
Pourers with threads for screwing onto the bottle feature a completely different mechanism. This makes the accidental slipping of the pourer almost impossible.
Although many online shops and similar sources repeatedly state 'exact' flow rates for their pourers, it is actually not possible to guarantee exact flow speeds! The amount of liquid that flows through a pourer in a given time depends on various factors such as the viscosity of the liquid and the angle at which the bottle is held. Therefore, a little practice with the pourer in use is essential.
