In the world of cocktails, ice is not just a cool factor (literally); it’s an essential ingredient that can elevate or diminish a drink’s quality. The type, shape, and size of the ice you use can significantly influence the taste, aroma, and presentation of your drink. Block Ice’s passion for the cube is strong and we’re here to guide you through the six must-have ice types every bar should stock.
1. Standard Ice Cubes
These everyday heroes of the cocktail world measure roughly 1 inch to 1.5 inches on average. Their versatility ensures they fit almost any cocktail glass, and their large size prevents rapid cooling. This lets the drink remain chilled without diluting the flavor too quickly. Check out a few of our favorite recipes using this ice below!
Ideal Drinks:
- Margarita - NYT Cooking
- Mojito - Allrecipes
- Whiskey Sour - Liquor.com
2. Large Ice Cubes
These square ice cubes, called The Block, average about 2 inches in size, and they make a statement. Melting slower than their standard counterparts, these cubes ensure minimal dilution, making them perfect for sipping drinks. The ideal glassware companion for these blocks is typically a lowball glass, ensuring your beverage remains cold for longer without compromising its taste. Check out our beloveds below!
Ideal Drinks:
- Manhattan - Food & Wine
- Old Fashioned - Liquor.com
- Negroni - Difford’s Guide
3. Ice Spheres
These spherical beauties are not just about aesthetics but functionality. Their unique shape provides consistent cooling, making them ideal for straight spirits. Their surface area is lower than that of large cubes making dilution slower, ensuring your drink’s flavor remains intact. These are also best suited for your lowball glasses. Here are our go-to’s:
Ideal Drinks:
- Any Scotch on the Rock(s)
- Any Bourbon Neat
- Gin and Tonic - The Spruce Eats
4. Collins Spears
Elongated and elegant, Collins Spears are perfect for tall glasses, adding a touch of sophistication to your drink. Their shape ensures the entire drink remains cold from top to bottom without diluting the flavor too quickly. They’re the best fit for a Highball or Collins glass. We had to include the Classic Tom Collins below.
Ideal Drinks:
- Tom Collins - NYT Cooking
- Pimms Cup - The Speckled Palate
- Paloma - Bon Appetit
5. Chipped Ice
Chipped ice is all about texture and rapid cooling. Perfect for drinks that require a slushie-like consistency, it offers rapid cooling and dilution, making strong drinks more palatable. Its unique texture ensures your drink gets the chill it needs, especially in short glasses. For our ice chewers:
Ideal Drinks:
- Mint Julep - The Chunky Chef
- Bramble - NYT Cooking
- Pina Colada - Crazy for Crust
6. Dry Ice
If you want drama and mystique, dry ice is the one for you. Dry ice creates a foggy effect, making your cocktail an instant conversation starter. Apart from the visual appeal, it also can keep your drink super cold as it averages -109°. However, it’s essential to handle it with care due to its extremely cold temperature and ensure the solid ice doesn’t touch your lips (or your customers). It’s a versatile choice for any glass but adds a touch of flair wherever it’s used.
Ideal Drinks:
- Halloween-themed cocktails - Block Ice
- Smoky Martini - Difford’s Guide
- Witch’s Brew - Jo Cooks
In the realm of mixology and cocktails, the right ice can transform your drink from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a bar owner, a budding mixologist, or someone who loves hosting cocktail parties, having these six types of ice in your arsenal is a game-changer.
