This week we received a box of sweets from one of our licensing partners. I am always struck by the unusual thoughtfulness of this dear company. I thought it was a sweet token, but not being the chocolate fiend that some are, I did not initially give this present its proper due. However, a couple of days later when Beth and I decided to open it and enjoy this edible gift, I was awestuck! Now THESE are chocolates from artists for artists!
They were so exquisite to gaze upon….like gems in a box…like a grown-up’s vision of Christmas sugar plums! But the appearance of these chocolates was just the beginning. And remember, these comments come from one who rather prefers vanilla (crème brulee, cheesecakes, bread puddings, and the like, hurrah!) over chocolate (brownies, fudge cake, chocolate mousse….yawn). After tasting these, I believe I could be swayed to be a chocolate epicurean.
Here are the flavors our chocolate collection included:
Fresh Lime
Strawberry Balsamic Caramel
Vietnamese Cinnamon
Rosemary Caramel
Venezuelan Spice
Orange Blossom Honey
Fall Fruits
Grand Marnier
Russian Tea
Caramel with Fleur de Sel
Raspberry
Jamaican Rum
Tahitian Vanilla Bean
Citrus Caramel
Espresso with Lemon
Pear Cinnamon Caramel
Exotic Fruits with Caramel
Bananas Foster
Bourbon Pecan
Passion Fruit
Venezuelan Dark
I cannot begin to describe the purity and clarity of the flavor profiles in each piece. I was astounded. We cut each piece into small segments so everyone could have a sampling of all flavors. Beth’s favorite was the Orange Blossom Honey, and mine was the Bananas Foster. I hate to even name favorites, as all were magnificent.
The Kansas City chef who creates these artisanal chocolates, Christopher Elbow, deserves every accolade! I was thrilled to find that his chocolates can be ordered online and I suspect I may find some worthy event or recipient to purchase these decadent treats for. Christopher Elbow has truly elevated chocolates to an art form, and given this woman sweet visions of chocolates dancing in her head! Who knew I could be converted?!
