I have been a fan of the Velvetiser since it was launched, so when Hotel Chocolat introduced a new edition I knew I had to try it. I have had a love affair with Hotel Chocolat's Velvetiser machine for just over five years now and I still rank it as one of the best gifts I have ever received.
Mine was a surprise Christmas present from my very generous twin brother, Keelan, half a decade ago, and from the very first cup, it completely changed my perception of hot chocolate. Now, I have been a hot chocolate lover for as long as I can remember. In fact, I pretty much exclusively only drink two drinks: tea and hot chocolate (and the occasional glass of wine or cocktail). So, it is fair to say I have had quite a few hot chocolates over the years, and it takes quite a bit to impress me.
But, the Velvetiser revolutionised how I made hot chocolate. Prior to this ingenious machine, the only way I could get a real luxury hot chocolate was to buy one from a cafe and my home hot chocolates consisted only of powder. Thanks to my Velvetiser, I could get the most delicious, rich drink in the comfort of my own home, made from real chocolate, and in just a couple of minutes too. That is exactly what it was designed to do: deliver barista-grade drinking chocolate at home effortlessly and it absolutely delivers.
The new Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser comes with a selection of hot and cold chocolate sachets. Over the last five years, I have got numerous other people loving the Velvetiser too, including my best friends and my partner, Callum. In fact, my machine seems to now live at Callum's house more than it does my own. Keelan also asked for his own as a wedding present after hearing me rave multiple times about my love for his gift.
When I heard there was a new version being released, I instantly knew I had to try it. Now that I have, here is my verdict: it takes everything I already loved about the Velvetiser and elevates it. The magic of the Velvetiser has always been in the texture. It does not just heat milk, it transforms real chocolate into something incredibly smooth, with that signature velvety finish and a light, frothy crema on top.
The new Velvetiser keeps with this main focus, but feels like the ultimate upgrade. The design is sleeker and more refined, inspired by the shape of a cacao pod, and it looks beautiful on the kitchen worktop. You will be proud to keep this out. More importantly, it is smarter than the original. The addition of the cold setting, along with the classic hot setting, is a game-changer. It means I am no longer limited to cosy winter drinks.
Now the sun is coming out, I have been able to enjoy chilled chocolate creations that feel like a cooling luxurious dessert in a glass, made with the same signature smoothness. I admit that, as much as I love hot chocolate, there were times with the original machine where it simply was too warm to truly enjoy it. Now, I can have the best of both worlds and adapt to whatever the weather is doing.
Performance-wise, the new Velvetiser is even more impressive too. The updated whisk and internal design create that iconic vortex effect, blending chocolate and milk perfectly every time for an even richer, more consistent result. It is clear this version has been refined with real attention to detail, and you can taste the difference.
The one small thing I would say is that I do not find it as easy to use the indicator for the maximum amount of milk as I did with the original machine. With the new device, it is on the whisk instead of the previous placement of on the inside of the actual machine. I find it is harder to see as you pour the milk in because it is obviously much smaller, but this is a minor thing. And, honestly, when you use the Velvetiser as much as I do you get a feel for how much milk to put in anyway.
If the original Velvetiser was a luxury, this new version is the ultimate indulgence. As someone who has loved the original for five years straight, I can say with confidence: this upgrade is absolutely worth it. If you are even slightly tempted, I would suggest you treat yourself and give it a try. I promise you will wonder how you ever lived without it.
The new edition Velvetiser is available in three colours: chalk, pebble or pewter. It costs £119.95 and also comes with your choice of hot and cold chocolate selection box: vegan or the everything. Each box contains 10 sachets, five hot chocolate and five cold hot chocolate. There are also two pod cups included, one for each temperature. Please note that delivery charges may apply.
