To many British beer aficionados, the notion of plinking ice cubes into a pint of lager is nothing short of sacrilege. But from the bustling bia hơi corners of Hanoi to the vibrant pulperías of San José, this practice is not just accepted—it’s a deeply ingrained cultural ritual that offers both refreshment and a fascinating glimpse into global drinking customs.
A Cool Welcome in Warmer Climates
The article highlights how in countries with tropical and subtropical climates, adding ice to beer is a practical solution to a common problem: staying cool. In Vietnam, the iconic bia hơi (fresh beer) is almost universally served over a glass full of ice, transforming a light, low-alcohol draught into a thirst-quenching, sessionable drink perfect for the country's humid heat.
More Than Just a Chill: The Cultural Divide
This practice starkly contrasts with the traditional western European approach to beer serving, which often prioritises flavour preservation at specific, cooler temperatures. The piece explores this cultural divide, positioning the ‘ice-in-beer’ debate as a clash between purist ideology and pragmatic refreshment.
The Science of the Dilution Solution
Far from simply watering down a drink, there’s a nuanced science to it. The practice is most common with lighter, low-alcohol lagers and draught beers, whose profiles can withstand some dilution. The ice mellows the carbonation and slightly softens the taste, making it incredibly easy to drink in the sweltering heat—a key reason for its popularity across Southeast Asia and Latin America.
A Global Tour of Chilled Pints
The feature takes the reader on a quick world tour, from Costa Rica—where asking for a "cerveza con hielo" is utterly standard—to other nations where this custom is commonplace. It underscores that this is not an anomaly but a normalised tradition for millions of people, challenging the reader to reconsider their own preconceptions about the ‘right’ way to enjoy a beer.
Ultimately, the article posits that the next time a heatwave hits, the greatest refreshment might just be found by looking beyond tradition and embracing a more global perspective—ice cubes and all.
