One straining to down northern drink (7)

I believe the answer is:

snifter

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'drink' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand the remainder of the clue.

(Other definitions for snifter that I've seen before include "Catcall" , "A wee dram" , "Small alcoholic drink (colloq.)" , "14 [NIP]" , "Strong breeze - strong drink" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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