The world of at-home chocolate indulgence has been revolutionised with the launch of the all-new Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser. This highly anticipated update to the beloved original machine, which first appeared in 2018, now boasts a clever cold function, allowing for silky chilled chocolate creations perfect for a heatwave.
First Impressions and Design
Unboxing the new Velvetiser is a straightforward affair. The machine arrives mostly assembled, requiring only placement on its base before it's ready for its inaugural chocolate-making session. Following the initial instructions, a quick clean with washing-up liquid in hot mode prepares it for action.
The design is both sleek and purposeful. Its fluted body is modelled on the shape of a cacao pod, and it features a solid ash handle that makes it ergonomic and easy to lift. Available in new colourways of white, taupe, and silver, it's a stylish addition to any kitchen counter. The control dial is intuitively simple, lighting up a reassuring blue for cold drinks and a warm red for hot.
How It Performs: Hot vs Cold Chocolate
The standout feature of any Velvetiser drink has always been the texture. The new model continues this legacy, producing an impossibly smooth, velvety beverage that is impossible to replicate with a microwave or saucepan. A key indicator of quality is the crema – a layer of fine foam that sits atop the drink. The new Velvetiser achieves this for both hot and cold options thanks to a redesigned whisk.
This new whisk, shaped like the petals of a cacao flower, creates a vortex effect. This process cuts through the liquid to incorporate ultra-fine passages of air, resulting in that signature silky foam without any gunkiness. For cold drinks, which present the challenge of dissolving chocolate flakes in cold milk, the machine uses an initial pulsing action to perfectly blend the ingredients.
In testing, the machine proved remarkably quiet and fast, delivering a barista-grade drink in under two and a half minutes. Clean-up is minimal, though it's worth noting the appliance is not dishwasher safe.
A World of New Flavours to Explore
The arrival of the new Velvetiser is accompanied by a suite of new flavours, particularly for the cold function. We put seven different sachets to the test with a panel of chocolate enthusiasts.
The new cold drinking chocolate flavours include:
- Crème Brûlée: A surprising favourite, combining burnt caramel notes with creamy vanilla without being overly rich.
- Cherry: A tart yet creamy blend that evokes the taste of a festive dessert.
- Mandarin and Orange: A sophisticated twist on the classic chocolate-orange combination, slightly mellowed by the mandarin.
- Mint: A refreshing and potent peppermint chocolate, perfect for a summer cooler.
- Banana: A nostalgic flavour reminiscent of a banana split, appealing for its comforting taste.
- Classic: The reliable, creamy, and indulgent cold version of the original hot chocolate.
The machine also excels with its hot chocolate repertoire, from the ever-popular salted caramel to the delicious vanilla-white and seasonal specials. During the recent heatwave, the cold function shone, with creations like chocolate poured over crushed ice or blended into a milkshake proving unexpectedly refreshing.
The Final Verdict: Is It Worth The Investment?
Priced at £150, the Hotel Chocolat all-new Velvetiser is undoubtedly a premium appliance. However, for those with a serious passion for quality drinking chocolate, it is an investment that delivers. It consistently produces perfect, luxurious drinks with minimal effort, effectively eliminating the need for stovetop or microwave methods.
The addition of the cold function is a genuine game-changer, transforming the Velvetiser from a seasonal treat into a year-round luxury. If your hot chocolate consumption is a serious affair, this upgrade is one you won't regret.
