As Valentine’s Day approaches, the quest for the perfect chocolate gift begins. A recent taste test conducted by a team of ten enthusiastic volunteers has unearthed a range of bars, from delightful to downright disappointing. With options for every palate, this guide helps you navigate the sweet landscape of chocolate, ensuring your romantic gesture doesn’t fall flat.
A Sweet Selection Process
In a spirited endeavour, The Guardian assembled a group of chocolate lovers from their New York office to sample ten leading brands. The focus was on independent producers known for their ethical practices, steering clear of mass-market giants renowned for dubious sourcing. Each participant was blindfolded during the tasting to eliminate any biases associated with branding, allowing for an honest evaluation of flavour, texture, and overall enjoyment.
Participants were asked to rate each bar on a scale of zero to five hearts, with some startling results. Despite the high expectations set by the allure of artisanal chocolates, only four bars emerged as true contenders for Valentine’s gifting.
The Chocolate Champions
After much deliberation, here are the standout treats that earned the highest praise from our tasters:
Best Milk Chocolate: Endangered Species 48% Cocoa
This creamy delight stole the show, earning rave reviews for its rich and balanced flavour. Endangered Species prides itself on ethical practices, claiming to be “ocean plastic neutral” by removing a pound of plastic from waterways for every pound produced. With a price tag of $58 for a 12-pack on Amazon, it’s a thoughtful gift that supports wildlife conservation. Tasters described it as “comforting” and reminiscent of holiday treats, making it a sweet choice for any romantic occasion.
Best Dark Chocolate: Theo 70% Cacao
Hailing from Seattle, Theo’s 70% dark chocolate impressed testers with its smooth texture and accessible flavour. Priced at $42 for a six-pack, this bar is perfect for those new to dark chocolate. It’s been praised for its fair trade credentials and ability to pair beautifully with wine, making it an ideal companion for a cosy evening in. However, a few tasters found it somewhat underwhelming, suggesting it might need a little extra pizzazz to truly shine.
Best Vegan Chocolate: Hu Kitchen Cashew Butter + Raspberry
For those seeking a plant-based option, Hu Kitchen’s innovative raspberry dark chocolate bar with cashew butter is a revelation. At $6 per bar, it combines health-conscious ingredients with delightful taste. Tasters enjoyed the unique blend of flavours, though some noted the texture could be a bit challenging. Nevertheless, it’s a great addition for anyone looking to impress a health-savvy partner.
Best Flavoured Chocolate: Beyond Good
Beyond Good’s unique offerings from Uganda and Madagascar won the hearts of many, particularly the dark chocolate hazelnut variety. Retailing at $23 for a four-pack, this chocolate is not just delicious but ethically sourced. Tasters loved the bold flavours, with one even declaring, “I’ll marry this one.” However, the texture was divisive, with some finding it a bit tough. Still, it’s a gift that stands out with its distinctive taste and story.
The Not-So-Sweet Contenders
Not all chocolate is created equal; several bars fell short of expectations. A few tasters reported that some options were more akin to a bad date—hard to enjoy and even harder to finish. Bars like Maeve Moon Rocks Truffle Chocolate and Alter Eco Total Blackout Chocolate received particularly harsh critiques, with testers describing them as unpalatable and leaving a bad taste that lingered long after consumption.
A Cautionary Note
While chocolate is often a safe bet for Valentine’s gifts, it’s wise to consider your partner’s preferences. Some bars that were intended to dazzle left tasters feeling disappointed, so pairing chocolates with a thoughtful bouquet of flowers or a charming bottle of non-alcoholic wine might just save the day.
Why it Matters
Finding the right chocolate can significantly enhance the Valentine’s Day experience. As consumers become increasingly conscious of ethical sourcing and sustainability, selecting chocolates that align with these values can make your gift not only delicious but meaningful. Whether you aim for a classic milk chocolate or a daring dark, ensuring the quality and ethics behind your choice reflects your affection can turn a simple gift into a heartfelt expression of love. This Valentine’s, go beyond the ordinary and choose chocolates that truly resonate—because love, much like chocolate, should be savoured.
