The Secret Behind Our Chocolate: The World's Rarest Cocoa & Ireland’s Finest Ingredients
At Van Velze’s, we believe that exceptional chocolate begins with extraordinary ingredients. That’s why every chocolate creation we craft is made using the world’s finest and rarest cocoa: Criollo and Trinitario cocoa beans. Combined with the best locally sourced Irish ingredients, our chocolates offer a taste experience unlike any other—one that celebrates both the richness of rare cocoa and the essence of Ireland’s west coast.
What Makes Fine-Flavor Chocolate So Special?
Not all chocolate is created equal. The majority of chocolate found in stores is made from Forastero cocoa, which accounts for nearly 90% of the world's cocoa production. While Forastero is durable and high-yielding, it lacks the depth, complexity, and smoothness of fine-flavor cocoa.
The Difference Between Fine-Flavor Cocoa & Regular Cocoa
| Feature | Fine-Flavor Cocoa (Criollo & Trinitario) | Regular Cocoa (Forastero) |
|---|---|---|
| Rarity | Less than 10% of the world's cocoa | Over 90% of global production |
| Flavor Profile | Complex, delicate, fruity, floral, nutty | Bitter, strong, one-dimensional |
| Texture | Naturally smooth and creamy | Can be coarse and less refined |
| Grown In | Small farms, tropical climates | Large-scale industrial plantations |
| Used In | Artisan and luxury chocolates | Mass-produced chocolate bars |
At Van Velze’s, we exclusively use Criollo and Trinitario cocoa, which are prized for their smooth texture, delicate fruity notes, and deep chocolate intensity. These rare beans form the foundation of our chocolates, elevating every bite into a moment of pure indulgence.
Handmade Chocolates Infused with Ireland’s Finest Ingredients
While our cocoa beans come from the world’s most prestigious cacao-growing regions, our passion for local Irish ingredients makes our chocolates truly unique. We handcraft every chocolate using the freshest and finest locally sourced ingredients, including:
🍫 Connacht Gold Irish Cream – Renowned for its rich and velvety texture, this premium Irish cream enhances the smoothness of our chocolate.
🌊 Achill Island Sea Salt, County Mayo – Harvested from the pristine waters off County Mayo, this pure sea salt intensifies the depth of our chocolate flavors.
🍷 Balsamic Vinegar, County Mayo – Aged to perfection, this local balsamic vinegar adds a subtle yet elegant tang to our chocolate creations.
🍯 Local Irish Honey, County Mayo – Naturally sweet and packed with floral undertones, our locally sourced honey balances and enhances the chocolate’s complexity.
A True Taste of Luxury & Craftsmanship
At Van Velze’s, we don’t just make chocolate—we craft flavor experiences. Every truffle, bonbon, and chocolate bar is carefully handmade with passion, expertise, and the finest ingredients nature has to offer. By choosing our chocolates, you’re not just indulging in a treat—you’re experiencing the world’s rarest cocoa, combined with the best of Irish culinary heritage.
Discover the Difference for Yourself
Are you ready to taste the luxury of fine-flavor chocolate? Browse our webshop today and experience chocolate as it was meant to be—pure, rare, and unforgettable.
👉Shop our Artisan Chocolates Now
