When you order a cocktail in a club, pay close attention to the ‘ice trick’, a real bartender scam. That’s what it is.
THE cocktail, with their blend of flavors and captivating presentation, have always been one of the joys of the world of drinks. However, behind the surprising colors and inviting aromas, there is sometimes an unethical practice, known as the “ice scam”.
What exactly is the scam ice? This is a widespread phenomenon especially in bars and nightclubs, where some bartenders, in order to save on expensive ingredients or to increase the profit margin, use an excessive quantity of ice in cocktails. The result? A drink that appears generously composed, but actually contains a minimal amount of alcohol.
The practice consists in generously filling the glass with ice cubes, leaving little space for the liquid part of the cocktail. As the ice melts, the volume of the drink decreases significantly, revealing a much smaller amount of alcoholic beverage than you might expect.
But why do bartenders adopt this practice? The reasons may be multiple. In some cases, this may be a strategy to increase profits by reducing the amount of alcohol served without reducing the price of the cocktail. In other cases, it may be a matter of convenience, as ice is cheaper than other ingredients.
Cocktails, here’s the ‘ice scam’: why do they do it?
It should be underlined, however, that not all bars adopt this practice. Many locals they strictly follow traditional recipes and are committed to offering their customers quality, balanced and tasty cocktails. However, it is important to be aware of this possibility and be careful when ordering a cocktail, especially in places that are not well known or where you suspect that the quality is not up to expectations.
But what is the role of ice in cocktails? Despite the fraud of the ice, it is important to recognize that ice plays a vital role in the preparation of many cocktails. Not only does it cool the drink, but it also helps dilute the alcohol and mix the ingredients evenly.
Without ice, many cocktails would be unpleasant concentrate and too much alcohol. The ice, gradually melting, dilutes the drink, making it more balanced and facilitating the tasting experience. Furthermore, it helps keep the cocktail fresh and accentuates its aromas.
So, how can we protect ourselves from these ‘smart’ bartenders? First, it is important to be aware of the practice and pose Attention when ordering a cocktail. Carefully observe the process of preparing the drink and, if necessary, ask the bartender to reduce the amount of ice.
Furthermore, choosing trusted venues and frequenting bars with an established reputation can help to avoid it inconveniences. Finally, remember that despite the ice scam, ice remains an essential element in creating high-quality cocktails.
