How I score

Every review uses the same four-part scorecard, with a final score out of ten.

Flavor

Does the flavor taste distinct, balanced, and true to its name? Sweetness, salt, acidity, and the quality of the base all count.

Texture

Creaminess, density, melt, iciness, and scoopability matter. The best texture suits the style rather than following one universal ideal.

Mix-ins

For flavors with swirls, chunks, or crunch, this score considers quality, distribution, and whether the extras improve the base. Plain flavors are judged on the elements they do contain.

Value

Price is considered alongside portion size, ingredients, execution, and the overall experience. Expensive ice cream can still score well if it earns the price.

The final score

The four categories guide the number, but the final score also reflects how well the parts work together. Scores are best compared with reviews in the same style or category.