Chocoholic’s Delight: 7 Countries That Craft The Best Chocolates

Jul 06, 2023, 18:47 IST

Sneha Swaminathan

1. Belgium 

A visit to Belgium is incomplete without stepping into one of its 2,000 chocolate shops, as they are an essential part of the country’s culture. What sets Belgian chocolate apart is its distinct production method, where cooling is delayed until the final stages, ensuring that the chocolate retains its rich aroma

2. Switzerland

Even without having visited Switzerland, it’s highly likely that you have not indulged in Swiss chocolate, as it has gained global recognition. Lindt, the renowned Swiss chocolate brand, enjoys immense popularity and is widely available for purchase worldwide.

3. Ecuador

Ecuador boasts some of the finest cacao beans globally, with around 5% of the world’s cacao being classified as ‘Fine Aroma’, and an impressive 63 per cent of it hailing from Ecuador. While the country traditionally focused on exporting its cacao, there has been a shift in recent years towards producing their own chocolate.

4. UK

Who can resist the temptation of Cadbury? Those delightful Cadbury eggs catch our attention in grocery stores, but the brand has its roots in the United Kingdom. Initially established in the 1820s, Cadbury started as a seller of tea, coffee, and drinking chocolate.

5. Ivory Coast

Despite Africans accounting for less than 4 per cent of global chocolate consumption, Ivory Coast is determined to alter this trend by introducing its own handcrafted, artisanal chocolates. Recognised as a dominant player in cocoa bean production and exports, the country has embarked on the journey of creating its own chocolate as the region witnesses increased stability and economic progress.

6. Italy

Imagine the setting: a charming Italian café, savouring an espresso accompanied by a delectable piece of Italian chocolate. It’s a combination that captivates the senses. Leading the chocolate scene in Italy is Amadei, renowned for sourcing their cocoa directly from growers. This direct approach ensures precise knowledge of the beans’ origin and cultivation methods, adding to the allure of their exquisite chocolates.

7. US

What distinguishes American chocolate is the notable inclusion of peanuts and almonds in many varieties. While numerous artisan chocolate shops can be found throughout the nation, Hershey’s holds the distinction of being the largest producer of candy in the country.

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