There are some chocolates so sublime that the memory of the first bite lingers long after the last crumb has vanished. These are the bars that transcend mere confectionery, becoming moments etched in taste and emotion.
Chocolate Bars That Define Perfection
Among the most unforgettable is Bare Bones' 68% Salted Dominican, an unassuming bar whose complex flavour notes continue to play on the palate long after consumption. Pralus' Barre Infernale (orange) presents a brutish brick of chocolate with a wonderful, dark, orangey, jammy centre. Then there is Neuhaus's nougatine and fresh vanilla cream Caprice, eaten after a period of such dietary austerity that upon tasting it, the clouds parted and angels sang.
Filled Bars and Exotic Combinations
Zotter's Plum Brandy marked the first encounter with a “filled” chocolate bar. What was meant to be a single bite ended up consuming the entire bar, devoured with the decorum of a python while standing on the pavement behind London's Oxford Street. Similarly, Sur Alfajores, the 70% original, features a thick coating of chocolate around an orangey biscake and dulce de leche filling, reminiscent of the best wagon wheel ever.
The Bar That Tormented the Soul
Recently, a new bar joined the shelf of legend—a bar that tested every fibre of willpower. In the end, it had to be consumed over four days to remove it from temptation's path forever. It was so exquisite that while it existed, it tormented the mind. This bar was not shared, nor was any opinion sought. It was a soul mate: Ducasse's 75% Amande, Orange Confit and Figue. A slab of dark chocolate pressed with whole caramelised almonds, pistachios, pine nuts, figs, and candied orange. All the adjectives apply: splendid, delicious, classy, tasty, magnificent. The balance was perfect—beautiful enough to evoke tears. Heed this warning: do not let this bar into your house, for it will haunt you.
