It is time to start thinking about how to treat your sweetie this Saturday. Flowers are lovely, candles are fine, but there is nothing like the classic box of chocolates. Luckily for Madison residents, local chocolatiers Markus Candinas, Gail Ambrosius and David Bacco have turned the tried and true classic into an even more extraordinary indulgence. While each offers a different (and divine) delicacy, all are sure to please.
To start, Candinas Chocolatier offers a simple box of chocolates delivered fresh daily from its Verona factory to its retail store on the Capitol Square. Markus Candinas, who did his confectionary training in Europe, quotes his chocolates as being gimmick-free."" Indeed, a box of Candinas chocolate is straightforward and consists of classic flavors that reflect Markus' tastes and his deep love for chocolate. His truffles are light, rich and prettily packaged in assortments sure to be well-received by any chocolate enthusiast. While the chocolates at the retail store are all pre-packaged, Candinas does custom assortments for those with specific preferences.
For Gail Ambrosius, the focus is on high-quality, single-origin dark chocolate. Gail has personally traveled the world to seek out great chocolate, and the result is exceptionally pure tasting, handmade truffles.
Her chocolates, always free of waxes and preservatives, reflect her commitment to quality and her passion for the superb flavor of dark chocolate. After trying one of her exquisite, single-origin truffles, an astute and discriminating palate, it is tough to go back to eating just any old chocolate. In addition, Gail offers chocolate tastings at $15 a person for those who care to do a little something more for - or, better yet, with - their loved one.
Finally, for a full body, mind and soul experience, David Bacco Chocolats is in a class of its own. With an extraordinary ability to harmonize flavor, art and nature, David has created a brilliant new take on chocolate. His handmade pieces correspond with nature's alchemy - earth, air, fire, water and spirit - and are always handcrafted with superior chocolate and all natural ingredients. In addition, David uses local and organic components wherever possible. As a result, the taste of his chocolates simply defies description. Each chocolate is as remarkably unique and exquisitely beautiful as it is flavorful.
A trip to his shop, conveniently located at Hilldale Mall, is an experience all its own and an absolute must for anyone from the erudite foodie to the casual sweet tooth. Every one of David Bacco's chocolates is must-try - from the classic to the inventive - and makes for a memorable sensory experience.
Overall, there is simply no way to go wrong with a box of chocolate from any local Madison chocolatier. Why not take your sweetie on a tour-de-chocolat and visit all three for a romantic and sugar-fueled outing? Candinas Chocolatier, Gail Ambrosius and David Bacco Chocolats all offer something unique and delicious. As the ultimate aphrodisiac, there is a reason chocolate is a so appropriately associated with the most romantic holiday of the year.
This Valentine's Day cozy up, enjoy sumptuously and remember the words of Peanuts creator Charles Schulz: ""All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt."" With a delicacy in hand from Candinas, Gail Ambrosius, or David Bacco, all chocolate lovers will definitely agree.
