9 Best Ice Machines for Whiskey in 2025
Whiskey lovers know that the right ice can elevate the drinking experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you prefer a smooth single malt, a bold bourbon, or a smoky scotch, using the best ice machine ensures your drink is chilled without diluting the flavor too quickly. In 2025, ice machines have evolved to deliver not just frozen cubes, but crystal-clear, slow-melting ice in a variety of shapes. This article will guide you through the 9 best ice machines for whiskey in 2025—perfect for both home connoisseurs and professional bartenders.
Table of Contents
- Why Ice Quality Matters for Whiskey
- GLAZER Press Ice Machine for Whiskey
- Scotsman CU50GA Undercounter Gourmet Ice Maker
- NewAir ClearIce40 Countertop Ice Maker
- GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker
- Whirlpool 15" Undercounter Ice Maker
- Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ Undercounter Ice Maker
- Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker
- Euhomy Countertop Clear Ice Maker
- Summary Table
- References
Why Ice Quality Matters for Whiskey
When savoring whiskey, the ice you use is just as important as the whiskey itself. Poor-quality ice melts quickly, diluting the complex flavors. Clear, dense ice melts slower, keeping the drink cool while preserving its taste profile. The shape and clarity of the ice are crucial:
- Clear ice prevents cloudiness in the glass and avoids trapped air bubbles.
- Large cubes or spheres melt slowly, keeping whiskey chilled longer.
- Specialty shapes can enhance aesthetics and serve as a conversation starter.
1. GLAZER Press Ice Machine for Whiskey
Reshape Ice, Reshape Moments—The GLAZER Mini Clear Ice System is designed to make crystal-clear ice at home with precision and style. This compact yet powerful device allows whiskey enthusiasts to enjoy professional-quality ice in multiple shapes without leaving the kitchen.
- Color: Black
- Product Size: 6 × 6 × 11 inches (16 × 16 × 28 cm)
- Weight: ~4.4 pounds (~2 kg)
- Power: 100~120 V / 220~240 V ｜ 600 W
- Heating Pulse Temp.: 100 °F (37.8 °C)
- Insert Size: 3.2 × 3.2 × 1.6 inches (8 × 8 × 4 cm)
- Insert Weight: 0.9~1.5 pounds (400~700 g)
- Operating Temperature: 60°–86°F (15°–30°C)
This machine is ideal for whiskey drinkers who value clarity, density, and visual appeal in their ice. It creates slow-melting ice blocks that do not water down your drink too quickly.
2. Scotsman CU50GA Undercounter Gourmet Ice Maker
Known for its superior performance, the Scotsman CU50GA produces gourmet ice cubes that are crystal clear and melt slowly. With its high production capacity, it's perfect for home bars or restaurants.
- Produces up to 65 pounds of ice per day
- Stores up to 26 pounds of ice
- Water quality sensor extends machine life
3. NewAir ClearIce40 Countertop Ice Maker
The NewAir ClearIce40 offers a compact, portable solution for whiskey lovers. It produces clear ice cubes in just 15 minutes and has an intuitive LED display.
- Makes up to 40 pounds of ice per day
- Easy-to-use controls
- Clear cubes melt slowly for better whiskey enjoyment
4. GE Profile Opal 2.0 Nugget Ice Maker
The GE Profile Opal 2.0 creates chewable nugget ice, ideal for mixed whiskey cocktails. It’s Wi-Fi-enabled, allowing control from your phone.
- Produces 24 pounds of ice per day
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi controls
- Stylish stainless steel finish
5. Whirlpool 15" Undercounter Ice Maker
Whirlpool’s undercounter unit produces uniform clear cubes perfect for whiskey on the rocks. Its sleek design fits seamlessly into any kitchen or home bar.
- Large capacity bin
- Energy-efficient operation
- Durable stainless steel build
6. Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ Undercounter Ice Maker
Known in the hospitality industry, the Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ creates top-hat-shaped ice that looks elegant in whiskey glasses.
- Produces up to 55 pounds of ice per day
- Stainless steel exterior
- Air-cooled system
7. Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker
A budget-friendly option, the Magic Chef Portable Ice Maker is perfect for casual whiskey drinkers. While not as clear as premium machines, it still makes good-sized cubes for at-home use.
- Makes up to 27 pounds of ice per day
- Compact and portable
- Easy maintenance
8. Euhomy Countertop Clear Ice Maker
The Euhomy machine offers restaurant-quality clear ice for home use, ideal for whiskey purists who want clarity and slow melt.
- Produces 40 pounds of ice per day
- Quiet operation
- Energy-efficient compressor
9. Luma Comfort Clear Ice Maker
Luma Comfort specializes in creating perfectly clear restaurant-style cubes in a sleek countertop design. It’s a go-to for whiskey enthusiasts seeking uncompromised ice quality.
- Produces 28 pounds of clear ice per day
- Stylish stainless steel design
- Low maintenance
Summary Table
| Ice Machine | Type | Ice Style | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLAZER Press Ice Machine | Countertop | Crystal-clear blocks | Custom inserts | Premium whiskey drinking |
| Scotsman CU50GA | Undercounter | Gourmet cubes | 65 lbs/day | Professional bars |
| NewAir ClearIce40 | Countertop | Clear cubes | 40 lbs/day | Home use |
| GE Profile Opal 2.0 | Countertop | Nugget ice | 24 lbs/day | Cocktail lovers |
| Whirlpool 15" | Undercounter | Clear cubes | Large bin | Home bars |
| Hoshizaki AM-50BAJ | Undercounter | Top-hat cubes | 55 lbs/day | Luxury whiskey serving |
| Magic Chef Portable | Countertop | Standard cubes | 27 lbs/day | Budget users |
| Euhomy Clear Ice Maker | Countertop | Clear cubes | 40 lbs/day | Whiskey purists |
| Luma Comfort | Countertop | Clear cubes | 28 lbs/day | Home whiskey lovers |