Discover the fascinating world of Helena Chocolatier's artisan chocolate. Learn what makes it unique and the differences between dark and milk chocolate.

Chocolate is a delight that evokes smiles, and artisan chocolate is taking that experience to another level. But what makes it so special? The phrase "artisan chocolate" is often synonymous with "bean to bar," meaning the chocolate is made from scratch, from whole beans, by the same company.

While conventional chocolate is mass-produced with roasted beans and blended with additives, artisan chocolate is a true work of art. At Helena Chocolatier, we work closely with cacao farmers to source the highest-quality beans. They are then carefully roasted, milled, and refined, using few ingredients beyond cacao beans and sugar. This dedication to the process and quality of the ingredients is what sets our artisan chocolate apart and gives it unique and exquisite flavors. It's a process that celebrates the purity and natural complexity of cacao.

The Different Shades of Chocolate

The world of chocolate is vast and diverse. Here we explain the differences between the most popular types so you know what to look for the next time you're in the chocolate aisle and how Helena Chocolatier achieves those unparalleled flavors:

Dark Chocolate: It doesn't have a strict legal definition in the U.S., but it generally contains at least 50% cacao, with most around 60%. In its production, cacao beans are roasted, cracked to obtain the nibs, which are then ground and refined into "chocolate liquor." Sugar is added, and it is sometimes shelled and tempered into bars. The flavors of dark chocolate can be as varied as those of a fine wine, from bright, fruity notes to earthy, toasty, or even spicy hints. At Helena Chocolatier, each dark chocolate bar is an exploration of these depths of flavor. 

Milk Chocolate: A combination of chocolate liquor, sugar, and powdered milk or cream. In the United States, it must contain at least 15% cocoa. It was created in 1879 by Swiss chocolatier Daniel Peter by adding powdered milk to dark chocolate. A good Helena Chocolatier milk chocolate can have milky and caramel nuances that make it irresistible, without losing the richness of the cocoa.

At Helena Chocolatier, we celebrate the art of artisanal chocolate, offering you an unparalleled sensorial experience with every bite. Which of our chocolates would you like to try today? Discover your favorite!

 Content originally produced by Sabio 360  for Helena Chocolatier