My first bowl was a shock to the system. For an OTC Aro, the flavor was quite intense. After reading a bit, i believe it's Hazelnut liqueur that's the culprit. Subsequent bowls have been much easier to enjoy. Kind of like an ultra-stiff highball drink that you ease into along with the ice melting.I've been keeping a pouch of SWRA in the car. It's actually been kind of growing on me, but I sure didn't like it at first.