Albert’s List: Exploring the Finest Chocolate Bars from Every Corner of the World
If I’m going to have chocolate, I want to save up my money and eat the best. Here’s my list in no specific order.
Valrhona: This French chocolatier is revered for its single-origin bars, each showcasing the unique character of its cocoa beans. From the floral notes of Venezuelan couverture to the nutty depth of Ghanaian chocolate, Valrhona offers a journey for the senses. Of all of the bars I can buy, my favorite is the Valrhona Caramelia w/ Crunchy Pearls 36%, a milk chocolate bar infused with luscious caramel notes and crunchy rice cereal pearls. If you’re a fan of Nestle Crunch bars, this bar will BLOW YOUR MIND. Get it at https://barandcocoa.com/ (my referral link will get you 10% off).
Bonnat: Stepping across the border into Italy, we encounter Bonnat. This Piedmontese chocolatier embraces traditional methods, stone-grinding their cocoa beans for a truly artisanal experience. Their signature Gianduja bar, a symphony of hazelnuts and chocolate, is a testament to their dedication to quality. Get it at https://barandcocoa.com/ (my referral link will get you 10% off).
Venchi: From the heart of Turin comes Venchi, a brand renowned for its playful spirit and innovative flavors. Whether you’re drawn to their classic gianduja or intrigued by their adventurous pairings like pear and ginger, Venchi offers a delightful surprise in every bite.
Galette: Hailing from France, Galette takes chocolate back to its roots. Their single-origin bars boast high cocoa percentages, perfect for those who appreciate the bold, natural flavor of the bean. For a truly intense experience, try their Madagascar bar, bursting with earthy and fruity notes.
Marou: Venturing further east, we discover Marou, a Vietnamese chocolate maker committed to ethical sourcing and sustainability. Their bars highlight the unique qualities of Vietnamese cocoa beans, resulting in chocolates with unexpected flavor profiles, like their caramelized white chocolate with ginger and lemongrass. Get it at https://barandcocoa.com/ (my referral link will get you 10% off).
Michel Cluizel: Back in France, Michel Cluizel completes our tour. This family-owned company, spanning four generations, has perfected the art of chocolate making. Their rich and decadent bars, available in a variety of flavors and cocoa percentages, are a true testament to their passion and expertise. Get it at https://barandcocoa.com/ (my referral link will get you 10% off).
What else is good? If you have their retail store nearby, Teuscher is pretty good. Online, there are so many more options. Check out https://barandcocoa.com/ (my referral link will get you 10% off) and https://www.chocosphere.com/.
