In a blind taste test of nine supermarket vanilla ice creams, Aldi's Kāpiti Vanilla Bean emerged as the clear winner, while the same brand also took the bottom spot. The test, conducted by food writer Nicholas Jordan alongside two Sydney gelato makers, evaluated tubs based primarily on taste, with texture and appearance playing a minor role.
Kāpiti Vanilla Bean, priced at $7.99 per litre, impressed judges with its rich, velvety texture and authentic vanilla flavour. Jordan noted that real cream and milk give it depth, with a hint of nuttiness. Despite containing real vanilla seeds, its low price is attributed to a high air content, which increases volume but reduces density.
At the other end of the spectrum, the worst-performing ice cream was also from Aldi's Kāpiti range, though the article does not specify which variant. The test highlighted that some products had little to no vanilla flavour, while others tasted of candy or caramel. Streets Blue Ribbon Classic Vanilla, despite containing no actual vanilla, scored passably due to its creamy texture, described as tasting like childhood.
The most expensive entry, Van Diemens Land Creamery Vanilla Bean at $12.99 for 500ml, offered a complex earthy aftertaste from visible vanilla seeds but was let down by other factors. The test underscores that price and ingredient quality do not always correlate with enjoyment, as cheaper options can deliver satisfying flavour and texture.
