24 May, 2024
How to Choose the Right Ice for Your Business
Ice isn’t a one-size-fits-all element; it varies depending on its intended use and the desired outcome when served.
Let’s explore the different types of ice bartenders use, starting from the smallest to the largest.
Full-Size Ice Cubes
Full-size ice cubes are a versatile and practical choice for a wide range of applications. They are ideal for cooling beverages like cocktails, soft drinks, and spirits served on the rocks, offering a good balance between surface area and melting time, which helps maintain drink temperature and minimizes dilution. Full-size cubes are also commonly used in ice baths for chilling wine or champagne bottles and in food displays to keep perishable items fresh. However, they are not suitable for blended drinks, as their larger size can be tough on blender blades and may not blend as smoothly as smaller or specialized ice forms.
See
Ice-O-Matic CIM0430HA 435 Lb Air Cooled Modular Ice Cuber (Makes both full-size and half-size cubes)
Scotsman C0830MA-32 Prodigy Plus 905 Lb Air Cooled Modular Ice Cuber(Makes both full-size and half-size cubes)
Half-Size Ice Cubes
Half-size ice cubes are perfect for rapidly cooling a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, cocktails, and iced coffees, thanks to their increased surface area that facilitates quick chilling. Their smaller size also allows for easier blending, making them ideal for smoothies and frozen drinks. Additionally, they are efficient in ice dispensers and fit well in different glassware. However, half-size ice cubes are not suitable for drinks where a slow melting rate is crucial, such as premium spirits served on the rocks, as they melt faster and can dilute the drink more quickly. Their appearance might also be less desirable for upscale presentations compared to larger, clearer ice cubes.
See
Koolaire KDT-1000A 895 Lb Air Cooled Modular Ice Cuber(Makes both full-size and half-size cubes)
Crescent Ice Cubes
Crescent ice cubes are valued for their unique shape, which allows liquids to flow over them smoothly, reducing splashing and ensuring even cooling. These ice cubes are ideal for dispensing in drinks like sodas, iced teas, and mixed cocktails, as their curved design helps them pack efficiently in glasses, maximizing the cooling effect. Their slow melting rate helps maintain the drink’s flavor for longer periods, making them suitable for high-volume service environments. However, crescent ice cubes are not ideal for premium spirits served on the rocks, where perfectly clear, slow-melting ice is preferred for aesthetic and taste preservation. Additionally, their shape might not be suitable for certain specialty cocktails that require specific ice forms for presentation.
See
Hoshizaki KM-116BAJ 115 Lb Undercounter Cube Ice Machine
Flake Ice
flake ice is primarily used for food presentation and preservation, such as in seafood displays, salad bars, and buffet lines, where it effectively keeps items chilled and visually appealing. Its soft, moldable texture also makes it ideal for packing around delicate items and for use in blended drinks or specialty cocktails that benefit from a smoother texture. However, flake ice is not suitable for cooling beverages served on the rocks or in situations where slower-melting ice is preferred, as it melts quickly and can overly dilute drinks. Thus, while excellent for presentation and preservation, flake ice is less ideal for direct beverage cooling and long-lasting ice needs.
See
Brema GB903A 200 Lb Undercounter Flake Ice Machine
Scotsman UF424A-1 440 Lb Flake Undercounter Flake Ice Machine
Top Hat Ice
Top hat ice cubes, also known as gourmet or clear ice, are favored for their crystal clarity, slow melting rate, and aesthetic appeal, making them perfect for premium cocktails, spirits served neat or on the rocks, and high-end drink presentations. Their unique cylindrical shape with a hollow center not only enhances visual appeal but also prevents clumping, ensuring smooth pouring and consistent cooling. However, top hat ice cubes are not suitable for fast-paced environments needing rapid ice production, as they typically take longer to freeze and require specialized ice makers. Additionally, they are less ideal for blended drinks, where smaller, softer ice types are preferable for smoother blending.
See
Simag SCH65A 127 Lb Undercounter Full Cube Ice Machine – By Scotsman
Collins Spears
Collins spear ice is prized for its aesthetic appeal and functionality in high-end cocktail presentation, particularly in tall, narrow glasses such as Collins or highball glasses. Its elongated, clear shape melts slowly, preserving the integrity and flavor of the drink without rapid dilution, making it ideal for spirits served on the rocks or meticulously crafted cocktails. However, Collins spear ice is less suitable for blended drinks, fast-paced environments needing rapid ice production, or applications requiring large quantities of ice quickly, due to the longer freezing time and specialized molds needed for its production. Thus, while perfect for enhancing the drinking experience in upscale settings, it is not practical for all ice-related needs in a busy bar or restaurant.