A refractory filter suitable for filtering molten metal, such as steel, and a method and powdered composition for producing said filter. The filter comprises refractory material, said refractory material comprising: 60-90 wt % alumina; 8-30 wt % zirconia; and 3-20 wt % magnesia. The powdered composition comprises: 60-90 wt % alumina; 8-30 wt % zirconia; and 3-20 wt % magnesia, wherein the powdered composition comprises less than 12.5 wt % reactive alumina, calcined alumina or a mixture thereof, and wherein the remainder of the alumina is tabular alumina. The method comprises: providing a powdered composition in accordance with the invention; forming a filter precursor from the powdered composition and a liquid component; and firing the filter precursor to form a refractory filter.