There’s something universally comforting about chocolate — its richness, its ability to melt away stress, and its capacity to transform any moment into something special. At Gertrude Grocer, we believe chocolate is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a craft, a story, and a sensory experience worth savouring.
Our Chocolate Tasting Workshop is an invitation to explore the bold, complex, and irresistible flavours of our handpicked artisanal chocolate collection, featuring premium brands like Tony’s Chocolonely, Baci, and the local favourite, Ministry of Chocolate.
Whether you're a chocolate connoisseur or just looking to elevate your sweet tooth, this post will guide you through how to host your own tasting, what to pair your chocolate with, and what makes our curated range truly special.
🍫 Meet the Stars of the Tasting Table
Tony’s Chocolonely (Netherlands)
Famous for its bold packaging and ethical mission, Tony’s Chocolonely is as much a movement as it is a chocolate bar. Every bite is rich, creamy, and made with 100% slave-free cocoa. Try their:
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Milk Caramel Sea Salt
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Dark Almond Sea Salt
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Milk Honey Nougat
Flavour Profile: Bold, slightly rustic, with strong cocoa notes balanced by inventive add-ins.
Pair With:
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Coffee: Proud Mary single origin or Dukes Espresso blend
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Wine: A mellow red like pinot noir
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Tea: Koala black tea or rooibos for a smoother finish
Baci Perugina (Italy)
Baci is the definition of romantic indulgence. With a silky hazelnut praline centre, dark chocolate coating, and a whole hazelnut surprise, Baci chocolates are decadent and elegant.
Flavour Profile: Creamy, nutty, with a hint of bitterness from the dark chocolate.
Pair With:
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Espresso or macchiato using St. Ali beans
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Prosecco or Moscato for a bubbly contrast
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Digestive-style biscuits from our Italian grocery range for texture
Ministry of Chocolate (Victoria, Australia)
Locally made and crafted in small batches, Ministry of Chocolate combines sustainably sourced couverture chocolate with gourmet inclusions like dried fruits, spices, and nuts.
Favourites include:
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Raspberry & Pistachio Dark Chocolate Bar
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Salted Caramel Milk Chocolate
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Roasted Almond and Sea Salt Dark Bar
Flavour Profile: Sophisticated, balanced, and indulgently complex.
Pair With:
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Koala loose-leaf green tea for lighter pairings
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Cheddar or brie cheese from our dairy cabinet for a savoury twist
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Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for a bold finale
How to Host Your Own Chocolate Tasting at Home
Hosting a tasting night is simple, fun, and a great way to get people talking (and indulging).
1. Choose 3–5 Chocolates
Pick a variety from the Gertrude Grocer range – mix dark, milk, white, and filled or inclusion bars for contrast.
2. Arrange a Tasting Order
Start with the mildest (usually milk chocolate) and build up to the most intense (like high-cocoa dark chocolate or those with spices).
3. Cleanse the Palate
Offer sparkling water, apple slices, or plain crackers between chocolates.
4. Add Pairings
Set out small sips of wine, coffee, or tea based on the profiles suggested above. Add fruit, cheese, or nuts to experiment with textures and balance.
5. Encourage Slow Tasting
Let each piece melt slowly on the tongue — this releases more flavour and aroma. Talk about what everyone tastes!
Serving Tips & Extras
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Break chocolate into small tasting squares — 5g is perfect.
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Use ceramic or slate platters to keep chocolate cool.
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Add Gertrude Grocer’s artisan biscuits and nut selection for bonus pairings.
Where to Buy
All of the featured chocolates and pairings are available in-store or online:
👉 Shop the full chocolate collection online now
📍 Or visit us at Carlton or Kensington for the full sensory experience.