If I had to only have two appliances in my kitchen, I would have my Ninja Airfryer and my Opal Ice Maker.

My father-in-law’s Opal went out about a month ago and I just set his new machine up yesterday. And he texted me this:

You have no idea what it is like to live without Opal. Thank you for helping.

Happy Father-In-Law

I have had my Opal Ice Maker for years and I am a huge fan. And I have found that the combo of a Yeti Cup and Opal Ice make the perfect combination for drinking bourbon.

Let me give you a little more of a background and some reasons why.

What Is The Opal Ice Maker?

The Opal Ice Maker is a popular countertop ice maker that gained significant attention for its ability to produce chewable “nugget” ice, similar to the type of ice found in restaurants and fast food chains. It was developed by a company called FirstBuild, which is a subsidiary of General Electric (GE).

The Opal Ice Maker became well-known for its sleek design and compact size, making it suitable for use in homes, offices, and small businesses. It is designed to produce ice quickly, typically generating a batch of ice in about 15 minutes. The ice production capacity of the Opal Ice Maker varies depending on the specific model, but it can typically produce around 24 pounds (11 kilograms) of ice per day.

One of the notable features of the Opal Ice Maker is its ability to produce chewable nugget ice. Nugget ice is soft and chewable, making it popular for various beverages and cocktails. It is also known by other names such as “Sonic ice” or “pellet ice.” The Opal Ice Maker’s ability to create this type of ice at home has made it particularly appealing to many consumers.

The Opal Ice Maker is designed to be easy to use. It has a simple control panel with intuitive buttons for adjusting settings and monitoring ice production. Some models also offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to control and monitor the ice maker remotely using a smartphone app.

To operate the Opal Ice Maker, you generally need to fill the water reservoir and let the machine do its work. It uses a process known as “nugget ice production,” where water is continually circulated over a chilled surface, gradually forming ice flakes that are then compacted into nugget-shaped ice.

Why Do People Love Nugget Ice?

People enjoy chewy nugget ice for several reasons:

1. Texture: Chewy nugget ice has a unique texture that sets it apart from other types of ice. It is soft and chewable, with a satisfying crunch that many people find enjoyable. The softness of the ice makes it easier to chew compared to harder ice cubes.
2. Cooling properties: Nugget ice has a relatively large surface area, which allows it to cool drinks quickly. The small ice pellets are also more likely to come into contact with the liquid, providing efficient cooling and keeping beverages cold for longer periods.
3. Enhanced beverage experience: The chewy texture and smaller ice pieces of nugget ice make it a popular choice for various beverages. It is commonly used in carbonated drinks, cocktails, smoothies, and iced coffees. The ice absorbs the flavors of the beverage, enhancing the overall taste and providing a pleasant mouthfeel.
4. Crushability: Nugget ice is easily crushable, allowing users to create crushed ice for blended drinks or to serve as a base for other recipes. The malleability of the ice makes it convenient for crushing or breaking into smaller pieces.

Overall, the popularity of chewy nugget ice stems from its unique texture, cooling properties, versatility, and ability to enhance the overall beverage experience. It has become associated with a certain level of quality and is often sought after by individuals who appreciate a particular type of ice in their drinks.

What Do The Experts Say About Opal Ice And Bourbon?

Chewable nugget ice, like the one produced by the Opal Ice Maker, has a softer texture and tends to melt relatively quickly. This means that it may dilute the bourbon more rapidly compared to larger ice cubes or spheres. If you prefer a slower dilution rate, you might want to consider larger ice cubes or spheres.

I like to drink higher ABV bourbon, so this dilution actually plays into my taste profile.

That being said, some bourbon enthusiasts enjoy the unique texture and quick chilling properties of chewable nugget ice in their bourbon. It’s a matter of personal taste and the experience you desire from your drink.

If you decide to use nugget ice from the Opal Ice Maker, keep in mind that it might melt faster than larger ice cubes. Adjust your pour and drinking pace accordingly to maintain the desired flavor balance as the ice melts.

Or use a Yeti Lowball and the ice stays for roughly 4-5 hours without much hassle.

Ultimately, whether the Opal Ice Maker’s nugget ice works well for bourbon is subjective and depends on individual preferences. It’s always a good idea to experiment and find the ice type and dilution rate that suits your personal taste and enjoyment of bourbon.

What Should You Look For In An Ice Maker?

When purchasing an ice maker, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. Here are some key aspects to consider:

1. Ice Production Capacity: Determine how much ice you need on a daily basis. Consider factors such as the number of people or customers you’ll be serving and the frequency of use. Look for an ice maker that can meet your daily ice production requirements.
2. Ice Type and Size: Different ice makers produce different types and sizes of ice, such as cubes, nuggets, or flakes. Consider the type of ice that suits your preferences and the specific applications you have in mind, such as beverages, cocktails, or food displays.
3. Speed and Production Time: Assess the speed at which the ice maker can produce ice. Some machines can generate ice quickly, while others may take longer. Consider the turnaround time for each batch of ice and ensure it aligns with your needs.
4. Storage Capacity: Evaluate the ice storage capacity of the machine. It’s important to have sufficient storage space to keep the ice until you’re ready to use it. Consider how much ice you’ll need to store at any given time and ensure the ice maker can accommodate that amount.
5. Size and Space: Consider the physical dimensions of the ice maker and ensure it will fit in the intended location. Measure the available space to determine the appropriate size of the ice maker. Countertop models are typically smaller and more portable, while larger units may require dedicated floor space.
6. Installation and Maintenance: Review the installation requirements of the ice maker. Some models may require a water line connection, while others may be manually filled. Additionally, consider the maintenance needs, such as cleaning procedures and filter replacements, to ensure you can properly maintain the machine.
7. Energy Efficiency: Look for an ice maker that is energy efficient to help reduce operating costs and minimize environmental impact. Check for energy certifications or ratings to determine the efficiency of the machine.
8. Durability and Reliability: Research the reputation and reliability of the brand and model you are considering. Read customer reviews to gauge the durability and longevity of the ice maker. A reliable machine will require fewer repairs and have a longer lifespan.
9. Price and Budget: Set a budget for your ice maker purchase and consider the overall value provided by the machine. Compare prices, features, and customer reviews to find an ice maker that offers a good balance between cost and performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the marriage of bourbon and Opal ice is a match made in cocktail heaven. The rich, complex flavors of bourbon are beautifully complemented by the crisp, clean chill of Opal ice, creating a truly delightful drinking experience.

Bourbon, with its distinct caramel notes, hints of vanilla, and warm oak undertones, provides a solid foundation for a drink that exudes sophistication and depth. Its smooth and robust character is the perfect canvas for the unique qualities of Opal ice to shine through.

Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or a casual drinker exploring the world of fine spirits, the pairing of bourbon and Opal ice offers a delightful sensory journey. The combination of the whiskey’s warmth and opal ice’s icy coolness creates a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and indulgent.

So, the next time you find yourself reaching for a bottle of bourbon, consider adding Opal ice to the equation. Elevate your drinking experience and embark on a flavor-filled adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the magic that happens when bourbon and Opal ice meet. Cheers to a perfect union of two exceptional elements in the realm of libations!