It’s no secret that Italy is famous for its gelato. But I had never heard of a gelato tasting until a recent visit to Turin. I’m pleased to report that it’s my new favorite, even beating (gasp) wine tastings!
I indulged at Gelati Pepino, a gelateria that’s been in business since 1884 where you can walk in and request a gelato tasting – just tell them how many courses you would like.
While the gelato at Gelati Pepino is incredibly creamy and smooth, that’s not what it’s most famous for. That would be the Pinguino (penguin in English). Invented in 1939 as a way for the creative enterprising founder to differentiate himself from all the other gelaterias in Turin and to capitalize on his chocolate making skills, the Pinquino was created – the world’s first chocolate covered gelato on a stick (Patent No. 58033). Today it’s produced in 5 different flavours. I only tried the vanilla and chocolate one, but can safely say it’s the creamiest, smoothest Pinquino I’ve ever tasted. Seriously if you’re only exposure to a Pinquino has been the mass-produced Revellos that can be found in a box in the frozen aisle of most supermarkets in North America, like mine was, you’re missing out. Seriously, if you even kind of like Revellos, you’ll LOVE a Pinquino!
Lemon liquid sorbet served in a glass
Lemon sorbet has always been one of my go-tos on a hot summer day, but I had never had liquid lemon sorbet. AHHHHHHHHHH, it’s beyond refreshing. If you’re parched, you HAVE to try a liquid lemon sorbet!
3 different flavors of gelato
My tasting also included three different flavors of gelato, which were all creamy, dreamy, and melted in your mouth as soon as your tongue hit the spoon.
I can’t recommend a visit to Gelati Pepino enough when you’re in Turin! Let me know which is your favorite flavor of Pinquino.
Gelati Pepino is conveniently located at Piazza Carignano, 8, in the heart of Turin. Plan to go more than once.
Disclosure: Thank you to Turin Tourism for introducing me to a gelato tasting. All opinions are my own as always. All gelato was consumed on my own free will.
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