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Clear Ice in Cocktails, an Endless debate

If I have a big ice cube in my glass; does that mean I have less alcohol? Not at all! At Bisou., parisian cocktail bar with no menu, clear ice is a key element in the aesthetics of our cocktails. Often misunderstood, clear ice raises many questions: Why is it so special? How is it made? Can you make it at home? Does the ice take away from the drink? Let me take you on a journey into the fascinating world of clear ice.

Why clear ice?


So why is the clarity of the ice given so much importance?

Flawless Aesthetics: Clear ice creates a striking visual impression. Whether it's a fine whisky or a refreshing cocktail served over perfectly transparent ice, it exudes undeniable beauty and elegance. As the saying goes, we first feast with our eyes.

Preserved Flavor: Unlike cloudy ice, clear ice melts more slowly due to its crystalline and uniform structure. This structural consistency means heat distributes more evenly across a larger surface area, slowing the melting process. As a result, drinks dilute more gradually, preserving their complex and balanced flavors from the first sip to the last.

Purity and Quality: Clear ice is devoid of impurities and air bubbles, guaranteeing pristine ice. In contrast, the impurities and air bubbles present in opaque ice create weak spots that hasten melting and thus dilution, disturbing the drink's balance. With clear ice, each sip is more enjoyable, offering a clean and pure taste experience without any unwanted aftertaste.

Large ice cubes don’t mean less alcohol: Not at all! At Bisou., we use large clear ice cubes to keep your drink chilled for as long as possible without diluting it, ensuring the quality of the ingredients is maintained until the last sip.
The amount of alcohol stays the same, regardless of the size of the ice or the glass. The premium spirits we use are complemented by the ice, not watered down by it (or any mixers). A generous amount of ice helps maintain a low temperature, slowing down melting. So remember: lots of ice or large clear ice blocks in cocktails are a sign of quality, not a reduction in alcohol.

How is clear ice made?


Making clear ice is quite simple, to be honest. All you need to do is replicate the freezing process of lakes, from top to bottom. So how is it made ?

Pure Water: While using filtered water is advantageous, don't worry if you can't access it—regular water works just fine too.

Controlled Freezing: Instead of freezing water rapidly, opt for a slow, deliberate freezing technique akin to the natural process seen in frozen lakes. By insulating the container's sides and bottom, this method allows the water to freeze from the top down, pushing air bubbles and impurities downward.

Thawing and Cutting: Once the upper layer of water has frozen clear, remove the ice and proceed with cutting into blocks. Honestly, this is the most delicate part, as cutting ice can be challenging. Set aside the lower portion, which contains impurities.



Homemade clear ice: our tips

If you're looking to recreate the pure ice experience at home, here are some simple tips:

Opt for filtered water: For optimal results, use filtered water. If filtered water isn't available, don't worry—tap water will still suffice.


Slow Freezing Technique: Place an uncovered cooler in your freezer to replicate controlled freezing, akin to how a lake freezes. Allow the water to freeze slowly over about 24 to 48 hours.

Patience and Precision: Once the ice has formed, handle it carefully and cut it to your desired size. You'll need an ice saw or a circular saw for this step.

Shaping the Ice: After forming the blocks, shape the ice using an ice pick or a very sharp knife. Alternatively, you can use specialized ice molds to create perfectly shaped ice cubes instantly.

At Bisou., we aren't able to produce our own clear ice. We rely on the professionals at The Nice Company. Their craftsmanship is what makes our cocktails look so exceptional. A huge thank you to them!

Clear ice isn’t meant to dilute the alcohol in cocktails; it’s designed to elevate them. It prevents rapid melting and preserves the drink’s quality from start to finish. When you visit us, see for yourself how a well-crafted ice cube can transform your tasting experience.

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