They say the best way to a lover’s heart is through their stomach, and with Valentine’s Day less than a week away, we have reviewed the best Italian Chocolates for you to buy for that special someone…
In the last 20 years Italy has established itself as one of the leading nations worldwide for the production of chocolate, making significant inroads primarily in the gourmet market. Our selection includes the celebrated Baci by Perugina – which has gained tremendous popularity stretching far beyond the confines of Italy – and we also have gianduiotti, originating from Turin, which has become an acclaimed Italian delight with its distinctive smooth blend of hazelnut and chocolate. With true quality it’s important to remember that less is more, and when it comes to luxurious chocolate it is often worth that extra investment to ensure an unrivalled satisfaction. Whether you feel like treating yourself to a guilty pleasure or if you need inspiration for a gift, read on to find out more about the very best chocolates on the market.
BACIPERUGINA
From Something Italian
Price £5/143g
A popular brand of Italian chocolate – but be sure to buy these blue-packaged Baci Perugina, as the red ones are export quality and not quite up to scratch! Get it right, however, and you’ll be rewarded with these adorable treats that are layered up with a dark chocolate exterior and soft, nutty middle. They have all the charm of a fortune cookie, too, as each one comes with a multi- language love note inside.
CAPPUCCINO TRUFFLES
From Carluccio’s
Price £9.95/600g
You’re going to have to like coffee to enjoy these chocolates, but for those of us who do they are heaven in a mouthful. With a rich, roasted aroma and a light dusting of icing sugar, these are perfect for a dinner party or as a gift. They look spectacular jostling together in a generous jarful. Portion-wise, they are a bit of an intimidating size, but we forgive them that for their lightly indulgent flavour.
PERNIGOTTI CREMINI CHOCOLATES
From Something Italian
Price £4.50/160g
Wrapped up like pillow mints, these chocolates come layered for an interesting mouthful with complex flavours. The chocolate is clearly high quality, as the taste is instantly sweet but not cloying in the mouth. The neatly stacked levels of hazelnut, coffee and milk chocolate make it somewhat resemble a dolly mixture. Some of our taste test team thought it was too nutty, but overall pleasant enough.