Ah, the age-old question: Why put a block of ice in your whiskey? It’s not just a matter of aesthetics or following tradition; there’s some real science and art behind it. Allow me to break it down for you, fellow whiskey enthusiast.
1. Ice for Temperature Control:
Whiskey is often best enjoyed slightly chilled, especially if it’s a high-proof spirit. A block of ice can bring the temperature down to a more palatable level, allowing the flavors to open up without being overpowering.
2. Dilution (But Just a Touch):
As the ice melts, it adds a small amount of water to the whiskey. This can actually enhance the flavor by reducing the alcohol’s bite and allowing more subtle notes to emerge. Many master distillers even recommend adding a drop or two of water to their products.
3. A Slower Melt:
Unlike small ice cubes, a block of ice melts more slowly. This means that it chills the whiskey without diluting it too quickly, giving you more control over the taste. It’s a delicate balance that can make all the difference in your enjoyment of the drink.
4. The Sensory Experience of Ice:
The feel of a chilled glass, the sound of the ice clinking, the sight of the ice slowly swirling in the golden liquid – all of these add to the sensory pleasure of drinking whiskey. It’s not just about taste; it’s about the entire experience.
5. Aesthetic Appeal:
Let’s face it, a block of ice in a whiskey glass looks downright classy. Whether it’s a perfect sphere or a large cube, it adds a touch of elegance to the drink. It’s a statement that says, “I appreciate the finer things in life.”
6. Personal Preference:
Some whiskey lovers swear by drinking it neat, while others prefer it on the rocks. It’s a matter of personal taste, and there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy this noble spirit. If you find that a block of ice enhances your enjoyment of whiskey, then that’s reason enough to include it.
Read our other Whisky related article on Whisky Tasting or our review of the magnificent 21 Year Old PortWood Single Malt Scotch Whisky from The Balvenie
Here’s some of our favourite ice making moulds we found on amazon.co.uk.
1. FLOW Barware Ice Ball Maker: The Spherical Elegance
Imagine sipping your whiskey with a perfectly spherical ice ball, chilling your drink like a snow-capped mountain in a glass. That’s what the FLOW Barware Ice Ball Maker offers.
Features
- Material: Food Grade Silicone
- Size: 4X 6cm Ice Ball Moulds
- Design: Unique spherical design that outlasts regular ice cubes
- Ease of Use: Flexible moulds for easy release, dishwasher safe
- Usage: Perfect for Whiskey, Gin, Negroni, Cocktails, and Soft Drinks
2. FLOW Barware XL Whisky Bullets: The Golden Shot
Add a tactical flavour to your whiskey! If James Bond were to chill his whiskey, he’d probably use these golden bullets. The FLOW Barware XL Whisky Bullets are not just ice substitutes; they are conversation starters.
Features
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Design: Bullet-shaped with a revolver ammo storage holder
- Functionality: Chills drinks without dilution
- Usage: Ideal for chilling whiskey and other spirits without watering them down
3. Silicone Ice Cube Mold : The Skull of Cool
Why settle for ordinary ice cubes when you can have skull-shaped ones? The Silicone Ice Cube Mold adds a touch of macabre elegance to your drink.
Features
- Material: Food-grade silicone, BPA-free
- Design: Various shapes available, including Skull
- Functionality: Easy to remove ice cubes, removable and closable lid
- Usage: Perfect for whiskey, tequila, cocktails, and can also be filled with fruit, ice, soda, or wine
Conclusion:
The use of a block of ice in whiskey is not merely a tradition or a whim; it’s a practice grounded in the understanding of how temperature, dilution, and aesthetics can enhance the enjoyment of the drink. It’s a ritual that celebrates the complexity and beauty of whiskey, turning a simple glass into an experience to be savored. So next time you pour yourself a dram, consider adding that block of ice, and raise a toast to the art of whiskey drinking. Cheers!
