When it comes to the world of luxury appliances, Monogram Appliances has always been a name synonymous with excellence, craftsmanship, and sophisticated design. With a legacy spanning over three decades, Monogram has consistently delivered top-tier kitchen appliances that cater to the discerning tastes of the most demanding homeowners and chefs. Their commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and technology has recently reached new heights with the launch of their latest creation, the Monogram Forge, a revolutionary heated ice press that’s set to redefine the art of mixology.
The Monogram Forge, unveiled with much fanfare at an exclusive event held in Vancouver earlier this fall, represents the pinnacle of Monogram’s dedication to elevating the home kitchen experience. This is an appliance that not only enhances the quality of cocktails but also transforms the way we enjoy them at home.
“It’s really hard to find innovation in the appliance category over the last hundred years,” says Bob Park, Chief Brand Officer for GE Appliances Canada. “In order to really innovate, you need to identify new needs that the consumer has and add in a luxury component.”
At the heart of this innovation is the Monogram Forge heated ice press, a game-changer for cocktail aficionados. This cutting-edge technology allows you to create perfect ice spheres, a key element in crafting visually-stunning and flavour-enhancing cocktails. As any mixologist will tell you, the quality of ice can make or break a drink. With this device, you have the power to elevate your mixology skills to professional levels.
“The Forge is a very special product. In order to get perfectly shaped spherical ice for your cocktail or for your glass of fine scotch, you needed to go to a very specific bar or lounge because not every place has the ability to make spherical ice,” remarks Park. “Whenever you get a cocktail made with spherical ice, you get a feeling that it is a very special drink.”
What makes this device unique against other ice presses on the market lies in its design and technology. Most ice presses used around the world rely on a manual process that involves heating up two pieces of iron or steel, and then pushing them together to press a block of ice. Instead, The Monogram Forge harnesses electricity and heating elements in its portable package to do the work for you, making the process much faster for home bartenders to get premium ice and, by extension, world-class cocktails.
“If you look at our competitors, they don’t have a product that is even remotely similar to this. This is really the epitome of luxury to be able to make spherical ice at home at a rate of 60 seconds each time and being the life of the party. That’s what it’s all about.”
Marian Beke, a celebrated figure in the world of mixology, was the guest of honour at the Monogram Forge launch event. With a career that has taken him from London’s iconic Nightjar to running his own bar, The Gibson (which was ranked number six on the list of the World’s 50 Best Bars), Beke’s expertise is revered among cocktail enthusiasts. His involvement with the Forge speaks volumes about the level of craftsmanship and precision this appliance offers.
Beke, who served as the head bartender at the launch event, took guests on a journey through the art of mixology, showcasing how the Monogram Forge can unlock a world of creative possibilities. “The Forge is a game-changer for anyone passionate about cocktails,” says Beke. “The ability to create ice spheres with precision is a revelation. It not only enhances the aesthetics of your drinks but also ensures they taste exceptional.”
Monogram’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its innovative technology. The Forge is a statement of luxury design, a sleek and stylish addition to any kitchen or bar setup. It’s brushed-brass and matte black finish stainless-steel finish and intuitive controls are a testament to Monogram’s dedication to aesthetics and functionality. It’s also an investment in the art of mixology and an invitation to elevate your home entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender looking to up your game or an amateur mixologist exploring the craft, the Monogram Forge is the ultimate tool in your home bar arsenal.
“The circular shape is very important because it doesn’t have edges. If you look at a cube, the edges are the thinnest parts, which means it’ll melt very fast,” explains Beke. “The sphere shape melts one-and-a-half to two-and-a-half times slower than any other shape. That’s important. If you’re having a neat drink, the rotation of the ice helps to exchange the energy more evenly.”
To understand the true potential of the Forge, it’s essential to delve into the world of mixology. Imagine serving guests with flawlessly clear ice spheres, each infused with the essence of herbs, fruits, or botanicals. The Forge’s capabilities extend far beyond the ordinary, allowing you to experiment with flavours and presentations that rival those of the world’s top bars.
Simply put, the Monogram Forge is not just an appliance; it’s a statement of luxury and a testament to Monogram’s dedication to the culinary arts. In the hands of a skilled mixologist like Beke, it becomes a tool for crafting unforgettable cocktails that elevate any gathering to a world-class event. With the Forge, Monogram invites you to explore the art of mixology, unlocking a world of flavours and aesthetics that will leave your guests in awe.
The Monogram Forge will be at Midland Appliance in Vancouver, Tasco, and Goemans in the Greater Toronto Area.
Photography by Joshua Louie.
