Tried 8 versions of Hot Chocolate — significant quality range

Out of curiosity I tried 8 different versions of Hot Chocolate over a month, varying brewing time each time. The range was significant. Prepared hot with care at the best end, the hydration was pronounced. At the worst end, genuinely mediocre.

The takeaway: the category isn't uniformly good. Getting to know what makes a version excellent versus average is worth the time. It made me a more intentional consumer rather than just grabbing whatever's available.