Wanda Haynes-Certified Sommelier
What’s up chocolate lovers, did you know about 70% of the world’s cocoa beans are grown in West Africa? Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire are major sources of the commodity. Unfortunately, the farmers haven’t always been treated respectfully or paid a living wage.
Fairtrade is a non-profit dedicated to certifying products for equitable business practices. They started certifying cocoa in 1994. Fairtrade is a global network of more than 2 million farmers and workers. When consumers purchase Fairtrade labeled products, they support cocoa farmers who are paid responsible wages for their hard work.
Tony’s Chocolonely is a global chocolate company committed to Fairtrade. They produce world-class, high-quality chocolate. The name Tony’s Chocolonely came from the founder feeling lonely in his fight against exploitation in the cocoa industry.
The most popular bars and flavors are Milk Chocolate, Caramel Sea Salt, Everything bar, and Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt.
The mission is to end exploitation in the cocoa industry. Which is also the cause of unequal wealth distribution. Every bean that goes into the bars is guaranteed to be sourced according to 5 Sourcing Principles, which consist of (1) sourcing 100% traceable cocoa beans, (2) paying a higher price for cocoa to enable farmers to earn a living income, (3) promoting strong partner co-operatives to professionalize and make cocoa farming safe and sustainable, (4) engaging in long-term commitments to boost farmers’ income, (5) training farmers to improve their productivity and cocoa quality. Tony’s Chocolonely has formed an inclusive, diverse workplace where all employees feel welcome and psychologically safe.
Delicious chocolate with several options to enjoy. Full sized bars which are hefty in size, breakable, and easier to share. The lil’ bits are small bite sized, and in resealable packaging for a treat on the go. I adore the white chocolate bar, that smells like a fun day, melts on the tongue evenly. The rainbow box has six bars and offers a challenge to find your favorite flavor.
The chocolates are scrumptious and pair well with wine. I love the white chocolate bar with sweet fruity Moscato. The dark chocolate bars pair lovely with zinfandel, which is a low tannin fruit forward wine. Milk chocolate bars and the lil’ bits pair with Pinot noir, which has high acidity and low tannins. The chocolate is easily found in most retailers and a great value.
