What is Vermont best known for? Why, Ben and Jerry’s of course! Since I was in the area, I had to pay a visit to the factory.
How cool! They have a Ben and Jerry’s RV! I entered the tour line and got my ticket. After a brief wait, our tour guide took us in for a brief movie that gave an overview of the business’ history. It wasn’t too surprising, but I was a bit saddened to learn that this quintessentially Vermont business has been bought out by Unilever, a British-Dutch multinational company.
After the video, we were escorted up to the production area. I guess they are worried about industrial espionage – or something – and no photography was allowed. I was a wee bit disappointed, though, because with all the factory tours I have taken, I have yet to see one with a production line running. They were busy cleaning, and that is important, but one of these days I want to see something being made!
The next stop was the sampling area.
The flavor they were sharing the day I visited was strawberry cheesecake.
They were happy to share the ice cream, but I have to say that it wasn’t my favorite flavor. I took a couple bites and then threw it out.
WHAT?! Throw away ice cream?!
Yep. It just wasn’t my cup of tea. (I don’t like tea, either.)
On our way out, we passed the Quality Assurance Lab. Hey! I worked in QA at Amazon – I wonder if I could get a job there?
Once again, exit through the gift shop.
I had to get some ice cream that was more to my taste. Luckily, they had an ice cream stand right next to the entrance.
I got a scoop of CoffeeCoffeeBuzzBuzzBuzz. It was delightful!
After I finished my ice cream, I set out to find the Flavor Graveyard.
I found it! It was packed with memorials to retired flavors.
I was surprised at how little times some of the flavors were on the market. The epitaph on the Sugar Plum marker makes it sound like it wasn’t very good. You have to respect a company that honors it’s less than successful attempts.
Ethan Almond must have been particularly unsuccessful.
I had to snap a shot of the Vermonty Python marker. I do love me some Monty Python!
Back by the Flavor Graveyard and more parking is the solar array.
Walking back to my truck, I passed many lovely little areas to sit and enjoy the day.
The sun was starting to peek out, but I was ready to leave. My touring there was done.
Ah! Nothing but the good stuff in Ben and Jerry’s ice cream!