Understanding the Types of Ice and Reasons Why Many Bartenders Use So Much Ice

There was probably a time when you were asked why you put so much Ice on the drinks, spirit mixers, cocktails, or just everything in general. And while most bartenders have Illinois BASSET Certification, there seems to be an accepted myth among the society that the customer gets lesser liquid and can buy more drinks. 

This myth is already there with the myth that bartenders and servers could only ask if the food is fine when you got a full mouth. But the common question is, ‘Why do many bartenders use lots of ice when serving drinks?’

Even if many may see this as a way bartenders could rip off their customers, that’s not the way it is, as they are trained and already has Illinois BASSET certification to serve. In this article, you will find answers to these questions. So, without further ado, let’s get started. 

Cause of Chilling in Drinks

Technically, chilling is the byproduct of dilution. It’s mainly because when the Ice melts, it transfers the chilling energy to the surroundings. After all, it absorbs heat and makes the surroundings cold. 

It’s where the quality of the Ice comes and becomes questionable. So, if the bartender used lots of “wet” Ice in chilling the drink and the Ice has already started to melt, know that the surface area on the Ice is larger. 

That’s why the drink will dilute faster than the bartender used “dry” Ice. According to Science, colder Ice would chill slower than warmer Ice. This is mainly because of the energy that when it absorbs, it uses heat to the point where it starts to melt. 

There will be no dilution nor transfer of the energy to the liquid. That’s why it can’t chill the liquid. 

Why is Ice so Important in Any Drink?

Whatever drink it is, the Ice is of extreme importance. The way Ice melts will give different characters to drink stages. Ice is the key to getting fresh and dry Ice in every cocktail, whether in a bar or at home. 

Having the right Ice with the single malt could intensify the taste of a drink. However, if you’re still a beginner, know that Ice may reduce some strong flavors, especially in a whisky. That way, it would be a lot easier to drink. 

If you also belong to a connoisseurs’ club, you might also want to choose the Ice because it can have a numbing effect. This means that you get lesser characters to enjoy. 

Types of Ice and Their Use

Here are the types of Ice used by bartenders. 

1. Clear Ice

This is pretty much the talk of the industry, not only because it looks great, but it’s also worth pursuing in a home. These are the reasons why clear ice cubes are preferred as:

• Clear ice pure water
• Clear Ice that melts slowly
• Clear Ice that tastes great

2. Spheres/Cubes

This is about the surface area of the glass. Drinkers could enjoy the whisky that comes with standard or large cubes. The thing here is to reduce the surface area so the Ice could melt slowly and the drink doesn’t get diluted quickly. This will help you enjoy the spirit for a long time without getting too watery. 

3. Block Ice

This is the most suitable Ice to chill drinks without even diluting them. It can be used in everything from the refreshing whisky highball to the spirit-forward tipple. It can be purchased in custom molds or used in a standard container to make ice blocks. 

4. Cracked Ice

This is best used when shaking cocktails. The cracked Ice is perfect when looking for Ice that is between the typical cubed Ice and crushed Ice. This is done by cupping the standard or large ice cube and whacking it with the back of the spoon or the mallet to reveal the cube’s cold center. 

5. Crushed Ice

This Ice is intended for smashes and cocktails that come with snow cones. But you have to keep in mind that it’s a type of Ice that melts pretty fast and is suited for juleps, tropical drinks, tiki, and more. If your fridge could serve the crushed Ice, you may get the same effect by crushing the ice cubes in a clean towel, bag, or cloth sack. 

Wrapping Up

All in all, the types of ice most bartenders use are the key factors in making a perfect drink. These different types of Ice could alter the drink’s taste, temperature, and its entire look. Of course, the Ice could also help in keeping the drink cold. As long as the right amount of Ice is placed, bartenders can just create a great-tasting and appealing drink.