Wednesday, November 3, 2010

All's fair in love and chocolate

If dark chocolate could win Oscars, Olivia Chocolat would win hands down in all categories with maple flakes coming in as best supporting flavour. Honourable mention to almonds as well but don't worry, it's all friendly competition between these succulent, dark chocolate bars which we are so proud to have back in stock at The Candy Store.

Olivia Chocolat seems to have it all starting with, but not limited to, making a high percentage dark chocolate that is surprisingly not bitter. Varieties include 85%, 76%, Touch of Maple, Almond, and Touch of Maple with maple flakes. Can you say ambrosia? Their new raw collection which consists of non-roasted beans is also heavenly and really profiles the inherent flavour qualities of the beans. The Raw Line comes in 85%, 76%, and Almond. It can't get much better than this! Oh wait, of course it can. It's also vegan friendly and available at a lower price than ever before!

As well as being made locally, the company is deeply devoted to environmental
sustainability. The chocolatiers are committed to their zero carbon footprint goal by using hydro-generated electricity from the Gatineau River to roast, produce and finish the bars - a process which has been dubbed bean to bar in the industry (for more about Olivia and their beans, check out our previous post about this amazing company). Even the packaging is from a sustainable and certified source which meets the requirements of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative Program.

If we haven't given you enough reasons to try Olivia Chocolat, hold on to your socks because here's another: a higher cocoa content means maximized health benefits. Hooray for anti-oxidants! Let's celebrate by eating some, or lots! Ok, ok, moderation is important but this is truly a guilt-free, healthy pleasure that you can indulge in. Go for it, we dare you.

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Sunday, November 23, 2008

For the love of ginger

It's safe to say that the cold weather is here for a while, but that doesn't mean we can't hold onto a little bit of heat! With the winter chill knocking at our door, we've been craving something exotic and with just the right spice. Ginger fits the bill and there's plenty of selection at The Candy Store!


For those seeking ginger in a well blended bar, look no further than the show-stealing Sexy Dark Chocolate with Ginger bar by NewTree or Dolfin's Dark Chocolate with Fresh Ginger. Both bars have the right amount of kick and the dark chocolate adds balance. These bars are generous enough to share, but delectable enough to keep to yourself!


The Candy Store's Premium Bulk selections offers another choice for those seeking a chocolate and ginger pairing. The Kopper's dark chocolate covered ginger pieces are perfect for your desk top candy dish, or tucked into a coat pocket on a brisk walk. Made in Greenwich Village, NYC, these decadent morsels are crystalized before being enclosed in smooth dark chocolate. The taste is like no other and ginger takes center stage.


Not to be left out, chewy ginger is worth trying! Buderim's Gingerbons are an Australian chewy ginger candy that comes individually wrapped - perfect for tossing into your pocket or purse to curb your cravings (and trust us, after tasting them, we're sure you'll be having cravings!).


If the flavours and combinations alone weren't enough, don't forget about the health benefits: ginger has been known to help with morning sickness and nausea, indigestion, weight loss and even against the flu and colds - just what we need as we're settling into another Ottawa winter!
Cupcake flavors for November 29: Tiramasu, Peanut butter, Lemon

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