THE BEST CHOCOLATES FOR VALENTINE'S DAY
3rd Annual Valentine's Chocolate Awards:
We are proud to present the results of the 3rd Annual VALENTINE’S CHOCOLATE AWARDS Competition.
The International Chocolate Salon Awards for the 2nd Annual VALENTINE’S CHOCOLATE AWARDS are based on the combined total number of votes received by each entrant from the Judging Panel.
The Judging Panel consists of National and Regional Magazines, Newspaper and Blog Editors, plus Topic Experts, Local Chefs and Food Gurus.
The award winners below have the honor of being able to display and use the Official Award Winner title and award logos, as well as use items (such as the Award Winner lapel pin), as well as use Custom Award Certificates, and logo award merchandise.
Panache Chocolatier “With Love” Valentine’s Day Truffle Collection
GOLD MEDAL
Judges Summary:
Panache wins the gold with their incredible with Love Box, which not only comes with a wood veneer box and ribbon, but also with a custom pamphlet that describes the providence and history of each of the chocolates. These chocolates include ruby passion from Brazil, pistachio rose from Spain, raspberry noir from France, and spiced vanilla being from Madagascar. Of course the spherical design of these chocolates is very truffle-like, and they are each topped with a unique design, whether that is gold leaf, spices, or chocolate drizzle and cocoa powder. What is truly phenomenal about this collection is that the box extends outwards into three tiers, one of which contains the pamphlet, and the other two of which contain nine chocolates each, for a total of 18 chocolates. This gift is one that you want to be there forwhen it is opened, and once opened, you want to put it on display. Or at least, post a lot of photographs on Instagram.
From the chocolatier -
"Hand crafted, artisan truffles highlighting flavors from around the world.
Focus is on bringing flavors identified with regions and creating with a twist of uniqueness.
All created “With Love” by PanacheChocolatier"
Craft-Chocolate Sweetheart
SILVER MEDAL
Judges Summary:
The Craft-Chocolate hazelnut and milk chocolate Irish cream is delicious and beautifully presented. The box design is simple yet elegant, and we love how the ribbon criss-crosses the heart in contrast with the arrangement of subtle pastel dots. The inside of the box is composed of two layers -- two rows of chocolates -- that are shaped like hearts and flowers. These caramels are a delicious luxury. The judges also loved the size of the packaging, which can be easily held in one hand but is substantial enough to be considered as a thoughtful splurge and gift.
From the chocolatier -
"This Valentine gift gives heart shaped sweet chocolate to the one you hold sweet in your heart."
Bella Sophia Chocolates Valentine's Day Mix Box
BRONZE MEDAL
Judges Summary:
Bella Sophia‘s Valentine’s Day packaging is a gift within a gift. The outside artist paper is carefully folded and wrapped, while the box underneath features Bella Sophia’s trademark quilted box design. Inside of the box is delicate gold wrapping paper, which gives a sense of elegance and luxury. The gold is also reflected in some of the gold leaf that adorns various chocolates within. This box contains a variety of 16 chocolates, enough for the giver and the recipient to share together. They demonstrate a range of molding styles and chocolate techniques, as well as flavors, and colors. There is no chance of getting bored with this collection.
From the chocolatier -
"Our mix box for Valentines day has a flavor for every chocolate lover in this box, with some hand painted bonbons, dark, milk, white, truffle, gianduja, nutted and pale d'or and hand dipped ganache."