I love this, i skipped every small version because for the same price, bigger and assist why not? I've yet to make alcoholic beverages but i did make cherry pepsi slushie and it was great. I have no complaints and glad i waited for it to go on sale. I eyed the smalls every since release and since i couldn't figure which version had the lip defect i never purchased. The fact that i slush up to 20% abv vs 16% makes me happy.
I am a professional caterer and purchased this machine to make mini brandy freezes for clients' holiday parties. Tried it out the other day for a gift exchange party for a group of 25. Brandy Freeze Recipe (makes about 25 minis) 1 qt very soft/melted vanilla ice cream 1 c brandy 1 c creme de cacao 1 c ice cubes IMPORTANT: PRE-BLEND ALL INGREDIENTS IN A REGULAR BLENDER UNTIL SMOOTH. (The Slushi will not crush ice.) Store the mix on ice or refrigerate until ready to use. Set up machine as instructed, pour mix into Slushi, turn power on and hit "slush assist". after 1/2 hr, mixture will be frozen and ready to drink. With machine running, dispense into shot glasses or small wine glasses. Garnish with optional festive paper straws (cut to size) and a mandatory grating of fresh nutmeg.
My parents have this and it is AMAZING. We have used it quite a few times and the fluffy smooth slushes it makes are incredible. Perfect texture and consistency. We have made lots of margaritas and they are better than at the restaurants. Everyone who tries them is amazed. It could not be easier to use. You just pour in the ingredients per the recipes and it is frozen within 30 minutes. It is also so easy to clean. Worth the investment and will definitely be the star of the show at your next party!