The gamble worked as the large format Toasted Baguettes became the chain’s top-earning sandwich.

The Black Forest Ham will also be featured in a smaller sandwich that will debut on that same day.

Here’s what I thought of the new ham-based baguette.

Panera ham gouda baguette melt close up

Meaghan Cameron/Eat This, Not That!

The crusty baguette is the perfect golden-brown color with tiny bubbles that suggest a crispy, crusty exterior.

I could see greens, the deep pink ham, and some melted cheese peeking out the side.

The best part about this sandwich, though, was the smell.

Panera ham gouda baguette melt taste test

Meaghan Cameron/Eat This, Not That!

I was pleased to see a good amount of ham piled up.

The Taste

While the baguette looks heavy it was actually super light and airy.

It crackled audibly as I bit into the sandwich.

Panera ham gouda baguette melt sliced

Meaghan Cameron/Eat This, Not That!

I love the arugula for the burst of freshness but the sandwich needs more.

Swiss would have had a better flavor and is a classic choice with ham.

The glaring flaw with this sandwich, just like the other baguettes, is the size.

It does, however, have the fewest calories of the baguette line.

Still, Panera should offer this in a half-size just like most of its other sandwiches.