Need a distraction this week? I know I do. Take a break for a sweet treat with me as I review this week’s Sink-nature drink: the Hot Karl.
The name “Hot Karl” brings to mind a small-time rapper who recorded an album titled “Your Housekeeper Hates You.” The rapper only kept the stage name Hot Karl for so long, which makes sense, as the other euphemism that comes to mind with this drink title is something I’d rather not have published with my name attached (If you know, you know, and if you don’t know, you don’t have to know).
I got my drink on the same day as the craft and bake sale that The Sink was holding, so in addition to my two coffees, I was able to purchase a lovely chocolate chip cookie from one of the booths. It was great to have something to munch on during the 12-minute wait for my drink.
Upon first sip, I found myself back in second grade, when my mom brought home something from the grocery store she had never tried before. She toasted me a piece of bread and brought out the new tub with a white label and signature red lettering. The instant she cracked it open, an aroma entered my nostrils that I had never smelt before. She spread it on the toast, and when I took my first bite, an explosion of flavors entered my senses between a familiar chocolate taste and the new unique taste of the hazelnut. For months after that first taste, I packed Nutella sandwiches in my Tinkerbell lunch box almost every day during school, and, shockingly, I didn’t get sick of it.
Flash forward to drinking this Hot Karl, I’m thinking about putting Nutella sandwiches in my lunch rotation again. The combination of chocolate and nutty flavors made for a perfect post-lecture treat. Having it with the chocolate chip cookie was a little too much for me, but it could be perfect for someone with an aggressive sweet tooth.
Now for the most important question: Hot Hot Karl or Iced Hot Karl (or “Cold Karl” as the cool kids call it)? Personally, I’d go for the Cold Karl — the hot version is far too rich, and the ice adds just the right amount of dilution to make the drink sweet but not too overwhelming.
I will 100% be getting this drink again, but if you don’t love a sweet drink or that famous hazelnut spread, then this may not be for you. Stay tuned for next time when I review whatever special The Sink is brewing up.
Always brewing the best reviews,
Dylan Fee
