Types of Ice for Cocktails: Here's How to Always Choose the Right One
What makes a truly perfect cocktail? Of course, the quality and the right balance between the ingredients is fundamental, but there is another protagonist often underestimated that is instead decisive: ice.
There are many different types of ice for cocktails , and choosing the right one is not just an aesthetic detail, but a key element that can influence the taste, consistency and temperature of a drink.
Knowing the different types of ice is a skill that every cocktail and drink lover should have in their repertoire. Want to know more? Read on and discover all the most used cocktail ice variations!
Among the various types of ice for cocktails, which format should you choose for each drink?
Every drink has its ideal ice and it's not just a question of shape: the density, size and speed with which it melts directly influence the flavor and quality of your cocktail.
Here is a list of the most commonly used types of ice in cocktails, with some tips on how to use them best:
- Standard cubes : they measure approximately 3x3 cm and are the most used cocktail ice by bartenders because they adapt easily to any glass, do not melt too quickly and are perfect for drinks that need to be shaken or stirred, such as some of the most loved cocktails in the world which include the Mojito, the Spritz , the Gin and Tonic and many others.
- Large cubes : These are also called chunks and measure 5x5 cm ; they melt more slowly than standard ice cubes, which reduces the amount of water that is diluted in the cocktail. They are ideal for options served on the rocks , such as Negronis or Old Fashioneds, and for chilling whiskey and rum. They are very large, so don't use them for shaking!
- Crushed Ice : This is the go-to for frozen cocktails and tropical drinks like the Daiquiri, Mai Tai, Mint Julep, or any other drink with a slush-like consistency. This ice quickly chills the drink, adds texture, and dilutes just enough so that the more alcoholic ingredients don’t come off as too strong.
- Ice Balls : Ice balls are commonly used for liqueurs or sophisticated drinks such as Whiskey Sours and Old Fashioneds and, like large ice cubes, keep the drink cool by melting. They are generally preferred to ice cubes because they are elegant, scenic and add a touch of class to the glass.
- Clear Ice : Also known as crystal clear ice , it is known not for its shape, but for its absolute transparency and the absence of air bubbles and impurities. It is the perfect type of ice for premium cocktails with an impeccable appearance.
- Collins Spears: This is a long, thick block and is most commonly used in cocktails that call for a tall glass like a highball or Collins. Although not used often, this type of cocktail ice can keep the entire drink cold without diluting the flavor because it melts very slowly.
- Dry ice: added at the end, just before serving the drink, it creates a surprising smoke effect . It is scenographic and does not alter the flavor of the drink, but be careful: its temperature is around -80°, so it is important to be careful and handle it with gloves and tongs to avoid burns.
The perfect cocktail combination? The right type of ice and Spritzer !
Now that you know the difference between the various types of ice for cocktails and how to use them, put your skills into practice to create fresh and tasty drinks with Sprizzer , the machine for making Spritz at home as good as the one made by a bartender!
With Sprizzer you can prepare a perfect Spritz for all your guests in a few seconds, leaving you time to focus on what really matters: having fun and good company! All you have to do is fill the 3 tanks with prosecco, Aperol and seltzer, lower a lever and that's it: thanks to its total capacity of 3 liters you will get up to 20 perfectly balanced Spritz.
And to keep your Spritz always fresh? Sprizzer takes care of that too, with its external ice tank to fill with lots of ice cubes.
Sprizzer is lightweight, easy to carry and clean, can be continuously refilled or partially charged and works without the need for electricity .
What are you waiting for? Buy your Sprizzer or surprise a friend with a truly original and 100% made in Italy gift!
