LG's new killer fridge feature: Clear ice for cocktails
LG now sells refrigerators that make fancy clear ice.
With LG's latest collection of Instaview fridges, the fantasy of having clear ice at home just become a reality. According to LG, these new iceboxes can automatically make three, 2-inch diameter ice spheres in 24 hours. Each fridge has space to store up to 25 individual spheres at a time.
Crystal-clear, the balls of frozen water melt more slowly than ordinary fridge ice. That makes them perfect for fancy bourbon, scotch and elegant cocktails, since they won't dilute your drink as quickly as regular cubed ice, while keeping it just as cool.
Clear ice from your fridge
An LG Instaview fridge with "craft ice" clear ice capabilities.
Until now, the simplest way to make this premium ice at home was to splurge on an expensive ice machine. They're available from appliance companies such as True and Scotsman, and they'll set you back a cool $2,000, at least. Another method is to use a cheap, or not-so-cheap, mold. Rabbit sells them, as does Wintersmiths.
For the ultimate in clear-ice sophistication, expect to dole out a little less, though you'll work a little more too. For example, the $1,499 FirstBuild Clear Ice System makes large 2.5-inch diameter ice spheres. It also churns them out fast, enough to produce 12 spheres in 24 hours.
You'll have to press each orb to order as well. The package includes a heated ice press, plus a slick pair of metal tongs for the purpose. LG's fridges won't be able to match that.
A gimmick or a value?
Owning a fridge that make clear balls of cocktail ice won't come cheap. While you won't have to spring for a separate ice maker, LG's Instaview refrigerator line equipped with this Craft Ice feature starts at $3,999. That climbs to $4,199 if you opt for a black-stainless steel finish.
Clear ice spheres from the bin of an LG Instaview fridge.
We gave a French door-style LG Instaview fridge a positive review when we reviewed it back in 2016 (see our video review and gallery below). Back then we thought paying extra for the Instaview function, a way to peek inside without opening the door, wasn't worth it. Clear ice on-demand sweetens the deal. We'll have to try it out in person to say for sure.
