By Christopher McCollum

No, not a misspelling of one of our favorite cocktails. Instead, the Gin and Titonic is a Gin and Tonic, with Titanic and iceberg shaped cubes. There is a retailer in England which has produced ice molds that churn out frigid replicas of the Titanic and the iceberg that was fated to sink the illustrious liner. While the pictures look quite awesome, it does of course bring up the question of whether or not this is appropriate. When the Titanic sank in April of 1912, it took with it some 1,517 victims, out of the total 2,223 on board. Of the 700 odd survivors, the last one passed away earlier this year, in the month of May. With no direct victims left, is it appropriate for a product of this nature? Obviously, some say no, it is not appropriate under any circumstances, no matter the length of time that has passed. The disrespect that is paid to the victims and the victims’ families is overwhelming, and this is a “sick and distasteful product,” according to one critic.

Perhaps partaking in a beverage that is chilled by Titanic and Icebergs is not disrespecting the tragedy, nor celebrating the event. Perhaps it simply is what it is, which is a beverage that has ice cubes shaped into recognizable forms. While the company, Fred and Friends, readily admits that their product is “humor with an edge,” we have to remember that this is yet another tool, and a tool cannot be good or bad. The way in which it is used determines that.

The product is available online for a pretty low price of $6.99, and if you decide to take a somewhat controversial approach to your cocktails this Holiday season, be aware that there may be some who do not view these ice cubes quite as favorably. Remember, be responsible, and be classy.

Due to the way that heat from one’s hands can tend to melt ice in an otherwise splendid cocktail, thus dilluting the spirits within, it is commonly held that ice shouldn’t be introduced to a serving of fine Scotch whisky. Instead, it is widely recommended that mixologists opt to serve it “neat”. However, the Macallan Company (makers of the Scotch of the same name) are now offering a device which creates a perfectly round ice ball, which by itself can add its frosty element to your quality spirit, without compromising the age and flavor. But how exactly does a round ball of ice cool your drink more effectively than a regular ice cube?

By virtue of its pleasant round shape, a ball of ice not only floats conveniently in the center of your beverage, but it also has less surface space capable of being in close proximity to the edges of the glass, where heat from one’s hand can collect. Macallan’s ice-maker can be viewed by following this link.

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