Discovering craft chocolate makers as you travel the world involves both research and exploration. While there are numerous ways to find exceptional chocolate with unique flavors, locating craft chocolate makers requires a bit more effort. Craft chocolate stands out from industrial chocolate due to its hands-on, artisanal approach, making these gems a bit exclusive and not widely available. So, it’s important to put in extra effort to hunt for some of the best craft chocolate makers out there, no matter your destination.
What is craft chocolate?
Craft chocolate is made in small batches by artisans who are deeply involved in every step of the chocolate-making process, from selecting the best cacao beans to handcrafting the final chocolate. Unlike mass-produced chocolate, craft chocolate focuses on quality, diverse flavors, and hands-on production methods.
These craft chocolate makers can be either bean-to-bar makers or tree-to-bar makers, the latter being less common unless you are traveling to equatorial countries. Bean-to-bar chocolate-makers typically start with cocoa beans to produce their chocolate, while tree-to-bar makers not only make the chocolate but also grow the cocoa beans. In either case, they oversee every step of the chocolate-making process. This includes roasting and grinding the beans to perfection, refining the chocolate, and then meticulously molding and packaging the bars. These producers prioritize transparency, quality, and ethical sourcing, striving to create artisanal chocolate that boasts distinctive flavors and unique characteristics.
How to find craft chocolate makers around the world
The fastest and easiest way to find some of the most popular chocolate destinations is to search “chocolate” on Google Maps or Apple Maps in the city where you will be traveling. You can also explore numerous online platforms that specialize in showcasing artisanal or craft products. Websites such as Bean to Bar World, Cocoa Runners, Chocolate Noise, and Chocolate Codex offer extensive information about a wide array of craft chocolate makers. These platforms serve as valuable resources for chocolate enthusiasts, providing insights into the diverse world of artisanal chocolate, including details about different producers, their unique creations, and where to find them. Whether you’re seeking new flavors or curious about the local craft chocolate scene, these websites are excellent places to start your exploration.
We love Cocoa Runners interactive Craft Chocolate Map, which serves as a comprehensive directory of craft chocolate makers worldwide. This innovative tool provides valuable information about various craft chocolate brands, allowing chocolate enthusiasts to explore and discover a diverse array of options. With its user-friendly interface and extensive database, Cocoa Runners’ Craft Chocolate Map is an invaluable tool for anyone passionate about exploring the rich and flavorful world of craft chocolate.
Another excellent method for discovering craft chocolate makers is by searching for information about local chocolate festivals and events. These gatherings include farmers markets, trade shows, and tasting events where craft chocolate makers exhibit their products. Attending such events provides a special chance to meet chocolate makers face-to-face, taste their offerings, and gain insights into their craft.
Here are some fantastic events and chocolate festivals you can attend this year!
- Craft Chocolate Experience (San Francisco, CA)
- Northwest Chocolate Festival (Seattle, WA)
- Salon du Chocolat (NYC and Paris)
- Dallas Chocolate Festival (Dallas, TX)
- The Los Angeles CHOCOLATE SALON & FESTIVAL (Los Angeles, CA)
- Chocoa (Amsterdam)
Also, make sure to follow craft chocolate makers and chocolate enthusiasts on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Engage with online communities, forums, and groups focused on chocolate appreciation to connect with like-minded chocolate enthusiasts and explore new makers.
Once you are at your destination, make sure to explore specialty food stores, gourmet markets, and artisanal chocolate shops in the area. They often offer a selection of local, craft chocolate brands, providing an opportunity to discover local makers and products.
Enjoy your journey and eat lots of chocolate!
We hope this article has been helpful. Now that you know where to start your chocolate expedition, it’s worth noting that there are incredible craft chocolate makers out there creating unbelievable creations. So, what are you waiting for? Explore craft chocolate makers in your area, then expand to every state in the US, and eventually conquer the world. If you find a local chocolate gem, post it and tag us.
For more great articles and recipes, check out the rest of our CocoTerra blog.
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