What is a Lewis bag of ice?

Answered by Jesse Garza

A Lewis bag is an essential tool in the world of , particularly when it comes to making the classic . This heavy-duty canvas bag is specifically designed for crushing ice into fine shards, which is crucial for creating the perfect texture in certain drinks.

The bag itself is made from a thick, durable canvas material that can withstand the force of pounding ice. Its size is typically large enough to comfortably hold a generous amount of ice, allowing for efficient crushing without making a mess. The bag is designed to be sturdy and long-lasting, ensuring that it can withstand repeated use in a bar or home setting.

To use a Lewis bag, you simply fill it with ice cubes and fold the top to secure it. The bag is then placed on a solid surface, such as a countertop or bar top, to provide a stable foundation for crushing the ice. A large wooden mallet or muddler is used to strike the bag, applying force to break the ice into small, uniform pieces.

The process of crushing ice with a Lewis bag is not only practical but also adds a touch of theatricality to the cocktail-making experience. As you pound the bag, you can hear the satisfying sound of the ice breaking, creating a sense of anticipation for the refreshing drink to come. It also allows for a level of control over the size and texture of the crushed ice, ensuring that it is suitable for specific cocktail recipes.

The use of a Lewis bag and mallet is not limited to just the Mint Julep. It can be employed in various other cocktails and drinks that require crushed ice, such as the classic Daiquiri or the refreshing . The fine shards of ice produced by the bag provide a different mouthfeel and dilution rate compared to using ice cubes or crushed ice from a machine.

Having a Lewis bag as part of a bartender's arsenal is a sign of dedication to the craft of cocktail making. It demonstrates a commitment to quality and attention to detail, as using crushed ice can greatly enhance the overall drinking experience. It also adds a touch of nostalgia, harking back to a time when cocktails were crafted by hand and each drink was a labor of love.

In my own experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have come to appreciate the value of using a Lewis bag when it comes to creating exceptional cocktails. The process of crushing ice by hand allows for a level of precision and control that cannot be achieved with other methods. It also adds an element of craftsmanship and artistry to the cocktail-making process, elevating it from a simple drink to a sensory experience.

A Lewis bag is a heavy-duty canvas bag used to crush ice into fine shards for cocktails. It is a staple tool in the craft cocktail scene, allowing bartenders to create drinks with the perfect texture and dilution rate. Its use adds a touch of theater and craftsmanship to the cocktail-making process, making it an essential item for any serious cocktail enthusiast or professional bartender.