Turkey Hill Vanilla Bean comes out of Lancaster County, PA. I discovered it at Shopper’s and bought it specifically because it didn’t have any gums or artificial ingredients. I’m glad I bought it. It is spectacular. It’s much lighter and fluffier than most vanilla ice cream (especially compared to Haagen Dazs) but that also means it’s lighter in calories. It’s extremely creamy and I’m their new biggest fan.

• Flavor: 4.5
• Flavor Intensity: 4
• Texture: 4.5
• Originality: 1
• Overall: 4.5

I love Drumsticks, Sundae Cones, whatever you want to call them.  So, I couldn’t believe my luck when I found Edy’s Sundae Cone ice cream at Shoppers.  Unfortunately, Sundae Cone wasn’t all I thought it would be.  There just weren’t enough chunks of nuts, chocolate, cone—all the things that make a Drumstick so good.  It wasn’t terrible, but it was in no way a substitute for a Drumstick / Sundae Cone.

• Flavor: 3.5
• Flavor Intensity: 3
• Texture: 3.5
• Originality: 4.5
• Overall: 3.5
• Cost: $4.29 at Shoppers

I’ve wanted to try this brand of ice cream since I found out it is locally produced in Baltimore. Today, I finally discovered Lee’s Ice Cream at Shopper’s Food Warehouse in Alexandria. For only $2.50 for a quart this ice cream is a steal. You can’t even get a scoop at a shop for that price. I was amazed at how intensely caramel flavored this ice cream is. I was surprised to find the caramel filled chocolate truffles even richer than the ice cream, as the ice cream is (by itself) is so rich. However, I was a little disappointed in the texture. It’s a little icy and grainy. But, the strong flavor makes up for what it lacks in texture. I’m looking forward to the chance to try Lee’s at one of their shops.

• Flavor: 4.5
• Flavor Intensity: 5
• Texture: 3
• Originality: 3.5
• Overall: 4.5
• Cost: $2.50 at Shoppers