While Belgium, Switzerland and France often dominate global chatter when it comes to prized chocolates, Italy quietly captures devotees with its own revered chocolate-making traditions. Though the sweet stuff didn’t take hold in Italy until after 1890 when cocoa beans became more readily available, artisans since have made up for lost time by pioneering new techniques and spotlighting quality ingredients that pay homage to regional terroir.
Let’s indulge in a miniature tour of three standout destinations for savoring Italy's vibrant chocolate culture firsthand:
Turin - Gianduiotto Capital of the World
Northern Turin lays claim to inventing Gianduiotto, the triangular-shaped hazelnut chocolate candies enveloped in golden foil that have become an iconic Italian specialty. Legend traces this beloved treat back to 1806 when Napoleon’s blockade meant cocoa ran scarce, so ingenious chocolatiers stretched supplies by blending chocolate with plentiful Piedmont hazelnuts. Today Gianduiotto represents a point of pride for the city, with dozens of chocolate-makers crafting the buttery bites from family recipes passed down for generations.
Perugia - Home of Baci Chocolates
Baci, meaning “kisses” in Italian, are perhaps one of Italy's most famous chocolate export in recent decades. These couples of goat-milk chocolate hazelnut bites seamlessly combine a creamy chocolate shell with a whole toasted hazelnut at the center. But what makes Baci truly unique is the love note paper insert in each, featuring a romantic quote in four languages. Tradition says to gift the chocolates in odd numbers, allowing the recipient to make a wish with the very first they bite into, enhancing their mystique.
Modica - Flavor Rooted in Ancient Techniques
Sicily claims what may be the oldest chocolate tradition in all of Italy thanks to Spanish rule bringing cocoa beans to the island as early as the 1600s. In the mountain town of Modica, family-run shops proudly carry on old world production methods not found elsewhere, fermenting, cold-working and tempering chocolate at warmer temperatures for a unique grainy texture. Flavored subtly with regional spices and often using sheep's milk, this coarse melting chocolate makes a decadent topping over Sicily’s beloved cannoli and gelato.
From Piedmont to Sicily, discover the regional diversity of chocolate across Italy! Treat yourself to these and other fine Italian chocolate products available for easy online ordering through Cucina Mercato’s selection of authentic artisan imports. Delizioso!