Remember the buzz when Hotel Chocolat launched the first at-home hot chocolate machine back in 2018? Now, seven years on, it’s been completely re-designed and re-imagined: it is sleeker, more versatile, and better in every way.
Alongside delicious new flavours like cold Crème Brûlée and hot Orange & Mandarin, you can register for first access to the All-New Velvetiser, launching at $179 ahead of its official September release.
The best part is, unlike even the best milk frothers I've tested, this model can velvetise chocolate powder into the creamiest cold chocolate. I got a first look (and taste) at the launch last night – yes, I love my job. Trust me when I say: you’re going to fall head over heels for this one.
Meet the new Velvetiser
The All-New Velvetiser crafts barista-grade hot or cold chocolate at the touch of a button. Inside, it has a unique vortex mechanism that folds real chocolate into milk at the ideal temperature for a luxuriously smooth, velvety finish – even when served chilled. It's seriously technical, yet beautiful. I love the tactile wooden handle and sleek exterior. It comes in matte white, muted 'Pebble', or a silver-toned 'Pewter.'
The original Velvetiser might not be as sleek or versatile as the new model, but it’s still a classic. It whips up frothy, creamy hot chocolate – just not with quite the same perfectly foamed finish as its upgraded counterpart. It doesn't have the capability for cold chocolate drinks either, but if you don't mind missing out on that trend, it's still available to shop. There's an extra sweet $40 discount today.
At the launch of the All New Velvetiser, I was able to sit down with Hotel Chocolat's Executive Development Chef, David Demaison, to learn more about the patent-pending design. David explained that every detail in this new appliance has been re-imagined and re-engineered to achieve the best possible results.
From the ridging inside the pitcher, to the clever curve of the whisk, the development process has been under wraps for two years as the team constantly refined the design to create the finest, homemade drinking chocolate.
That brings me on to the taste. From my experience, cold chocolate is extremely hard to execute; I've tried to froth a cold mocha in the past and ended up with lumpy milk and weak-tasting flavor. The results of the new Velvetiser are worlds apart, even when compared to the very best milk frothers.
I was lucky enough to sample all the new cold chocolate flavors: banana, creme brulee, orange & mandarin, cherry, classic, and mint. I'm already thinking of serving the latter at my holiday parties, but my overall favorite was the banana. I loved the ripe sweetness, deep chocolate undertones, and refreshing coolness – it's even better with an ice cube and straw added.
The new Velvetiser isn’t just a functional tool – it’s a joy to use. I’m a fan of the smooth finish and the real wood handle, which feels beautifully tactile in your hand and makes pouring effortless.
Development chef, David, explained to me that a lot the design draws upon the natural beauty of the cacao plant itself. From the bean-like ridges on the chamber to the cacao flower-shaped whisk hidden within, it is certainly easy on the eye.
I think it would make a stunning gift, especially since it is available in a bundle, which includes a premium hot chocolate cup, drinking glass, and a curated selection of hot and iced drinking chocolates.
While it's not available to ship just yet, it goes live in September. Hotel Chocolat are yet to reveal the exact date, but you can register for first access at Hotel Chocolat to be the first to know.
3 products I rate as a chocolate lover
I make a lot of chocolate ice cream in my Ninja Creami. You freeze base first, then the Creami churns it into a perfectly smooth, creamy texture. You can add chocolate chips or any combination you like. I'm in the habit of topping mine with EVOO and flaky sea salt.
If you're a true chocolate lover, you'll have tried Dubai chocolate, but have you made it at home? I've tried to make it and my kitchen got a little messy in the process, but the results were such a treat.
A Le Creuset mug brings a charming, European vibe to my hot chocolate experience. I love piling whipped cream and marshmallows on top, too. It's in constant use when the cozy fall and winter months roll around.
As I explained above, the All-New Velvetizer officially arrives at Hotel Chocolat's online store in September (exact date to be revealed).
I’ll be keeping a close eye on it (I’ve already thought of three people I want to gift it to this Christmas!) and will share a full review once I’ve been able to properly put it through its paces.
Or if you want to save money, it could be worth shopping the $40 discount on the original Velvetiser, while it's still available. It's still fantastic, just without the kudos of being this year's most coveted appliance, now that this premium pick has arrived in town.
