This one is thanks to Mandy Aftel who shares my love of exquisite artisanal chocolate and pointed me in the right direction. I went to the website (http://patric-chocolate.com/) and started reading about this handcrafted brand from Columbia, Missouri. Bean-to-bar chocolates are my favorites, because you know with absolute certainty that the raw materials have been carefully selected with no shortcuts in order to make the very best product.
And it's chocolate.
I bought two to start with. Mint Crunch is from the permanent lineup and offers crunchy coco nibs and a distinct mint flavor in a smooth dark chocolate. The other one was February's limited edition flavor, Sweet & Sassy, a Valentine's day gift for the Husband (and myself). I'm a huge fan of dark milk chocolates, and this was probably the best one I've ever had: rich and chocolaty with the comforting aroma of a milk chocolate. The extra touches of caramel and sea salt took this chocolate into toe-curling-eye-rolling-with-pleasure territory.
One of the most fascinating things about Patric Chocolate is that they work in very small batches, and when it's gone, it's gone. Until they make more (yes, kind of like certain perfumers). The next lot is scheduled to be available during the last week of March, so one can and should join the mailing list to be notified on time. It's a different approach to sales, for sure, as opposite as could be from mass-market manufacturing and retail, and I'll be the first to admit that it takes getting used to, especially for all of us who are used to the nearly immediate satisfaction of 1-Click Amazon Prime.
In any case, discerning chocoholics should give Patric Chocolate a chance. It's that good, and as I've discovered, it's worth the wait. Each bar costs $12, and regular shipping is $7.95, though when temperatures are over 60F you need the warm weather protection which I'm assuming is costlier. Not a problem this time of the year, obviously, just something to keep in mind.
Bottom Line: Yes, please (and can I get some more?)
Thanks for posting about this! Just got on the mailing list and was going through their site - what an amazing company! Am totally stricken that I missed the black licorice and oatmeal cookie bars, but my fingers are all crossed that they put out the black licorice again since it apparently was a cult favorite. Another thing to look forward to for the end of this month, other than a significant improvement in the weather.
ReplyDeleteAnna
Off topic, but I love the new photo you are using for your gravatar -- such a beautiful smile!
ReplyDeleteOh my god...YUM! Heading off to the website now. :)
ReplyDeleteFine artisanal chocolate is a real game changer. I'd rather have a small morsel of something divine than a bag full of kisses--although kisses will do in a pinch! LOL Los Angeles has been home to Compartés Chocolatier for years and I love sending the to-die-for truffles as special gifts. De-lish!
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