One often-overlooked but crucial element in this creative process is the choice of ice.
Whether it’s the satisfying crackle of a large cube in an Old Fashioned or the gentle clink of finely crushed ice in a tropical drink, the type of ice you use can significantly impact the overall drinking experience.
The Role of Ice in Cocktails
“Ice serves several functions in a cocktail,” affirms Camper English, a trailblazer in the realm of clear ice and the author of The Ice Book. “It chills and dilutes them and it can also look so good that it functions as a garnish.”
While the immediate appeal of a cold drink is evident, the advantages of dilution might not be as apparent. Dilution plays a crucial role in creating a balanced drink. Don Lee, a seasoned bartender with experience in esteemed New York City establishments, explains, “Dilution is beneficial because most drinks are too strong to drink straight.
It also changes the intensity of something.” This alteration could draw out the tannins in oak-aged spirits like whiskey or accentuate the fruity notes in a high-ester rum.
Types of Ice and Their Functions
Standard 1×1-inch Cubes:
Versatility: These all-purpose cubes are suitable for shaking or straining most drinks, providing even and measured dilution.
Recommended Drinks: Ideal for sour-style cocktails on the rocks and highballs with carbonation.
Large 2×2-inch Cube:
Slow Melting: One large cube melts less quickly than several one-inch cubes, making it perfect for maintaining a drink’s temperature over an extended period.
Recommended Drinks: Suited for spirit-forward stirred drinks or neat pours like Negronis and Old Fashioneds.
Collins Spears:
Visual Appeal: Rectangular spears look impressive in a glass and melt slower than standard cubes, retaining carbonation.
Recommended Drinks: Suitable for Collins-style cocktails, ensuring bubbly drinks stay effervescent.
Ice Spheres:
Low Surface Area to Volume Ratio: Dilutes drinks a bit slower, offering a visually satisfying element.
Recommended Drinks: Use when you desire less dilution in a cocktail or plan to savor the drink over an extended period. Perfect for many basic whisky cocktails.
Shaved Ice:
Fine Texture: Essential for certain cocktails like the Mint Julep and iconic shaved ice desserts.
Preparation: Can be achieved with a Lewis bag and mallet or by shaving ice off a block with a fork.
Refrigerator Ice:
Usability: Generally fine for shaking or stirring, but avoid cubes with giant divots.
Caution: May dilute slightly faster, and surface dilution can be minimized by shaking in a towel or Lewis bag.
Chewy or Nugget Ice:
Texture: Fine, layered texture, popularized by fast-food chains like Sonic, can be enjoyable for sugary sodas.
Use in Cocktails: May dilute quickly, so ideal for certain refreshing, non-alcoholic beverages.
The Importance of Dilution
While the prospect of a watered-down cocktail may not be appealing at first glance, the reality is that dilution is a crucial factor in making a well-balanced drink. Don Lee explains, “Dilution is a benefit because most drinks are too strong to drink straight.”
The melted water that comes off ice during the shaking or stirring process contributes to the creation of a harmonious and nuanced flavor profile.
The Right Ice for the Occasion
The choice of ice depends not only on personal preference but also on the intended consumption experience. For instance, when sipping a high-proof whiskey over a short duration, smaller ice cubes may be preferred for a more rapid dilution journey.
However, if you plan to savor the same drink over a more extended period, a larger ice cube is recommended to ensure a slower dilution process.
Clear Ice vs. Cloudy Ice
The visual appeal of crystal-clear ice cubes is undeniable, resembling the high-end cubes found in upscale cocktail lounges. While clear ice has a lower melting rate than cloudy ice, it doesn’t drastically affect the quality of the finished cocktail.
The creation of clear ice involves directional freezing, a process that pushes air and impurities toward the bottom of an insulated container, resulting in a visually stunning and slower-melting ice cube.
Ice – It’s Just Frozen Water Right? Wrong!
In the art of cocktail crafting, every detail matters, and the choice of ice is no exception. From the versatile standard cubes to the visually appealing spheres and the practicality of Collins spears, each type of ice brings its unique characteristics to the mix.
Understanding the role of dilution and considering the intended drinking experience are key factors in selecting the perfect ice for your cocktails.
