How to Host a Chocolate Tasting

Total Time 5

Servings people

STEP 1. Choose three different chocolates.
It’s up to you what type of chocolate you offer for tasting. I’d advise steering away from filled centers. For chocolate purists they just can’t compete with the pleasure of real chocolate on its own.
You could choose three different brands of say 70% cocoa solids chocolate and have a bit of a comparison. You’ll be surprised just how different they will be.
Another option is to go for a white, milk and dark from the same producer so you can get everyone to explore which is their favourite type. Or you could try three different dark chocolates with different levels of cocoa solids. Or a cheap cooking chocolate, a mid range and a more expensive… the possibilities are endless really.
STEP 2. Plonk them in the middle of the table.
For an added level of complexity, you could serve them unlabelled or ‘blind’ as we professional tasters like to say. But this can make it a little intimidating for some people. Maybe save this for a follow up session.
STEP 3. Explore, discuss and enjoy.
You can make it as in depth or as casual as you like. I like to keep it very conversational and fun. Just let everyone taste and talk about what they are experiencing – their likes and dislikes.
If your guests want to get a bit more serious about their chocolate appreciation, you could give them a few pointers as to what the professionals look for. I’ve pulled together a bit of a guide below.