Godiva Chocolates
The Chocolate Connoisseur July 26th, 2007
A chocolatier named Joseph Draps created Godiva Chocolate more than 75 years ago. It was said that Draps used the name Godiva to honor the legendary Lady Godiva. The Godiva chocolates are decadent assortments of chocolates that are exquisitely handmade to create edible masterpieces. Some of the chocolate pieces are made by molding the chocolate, while others are coated by passing through a layer of flowing chocolate to cover an amazing mixture of goodness for the center of the chocolate. The practice at Godiva is to provide hand-decorated pieces of chocolate for chocolate fanciers. Skilled chocolate makers produce many tons of chocolates per day.
Marketing of Godiva Chocolates
The Godiva Chocolates are world known and enjoyed. The packaging for the Godiva brand is well recognized with its signature gold boxes referred to in the company as ballontins. The main manufacturer is located in Brussels, Belgium. The Godiva Chocolate Company does not make chocolate novelties such as heart shaped boxes or roses as it prides itself on producing and selling European style chocolates. In 1966 Godiva chocolates were introduced in the United States. There are approximately 200 Godiva stores throughout the United States and an additional 1000 outlets in major departments stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Bloomindales. The second manufacturing plant is located in Pennsylvania. This plant supplies more than 3000 places throughout the North American market. Godiva chocolates are usually available in Duty Free stores in major airports around the world.
There are different varieties to choose from when selecting an order of Godiva Chocolates. With their Gold Collection the choices range from a box containing 10-40 pieces. Any assortment of all milk chocolate or dark is available. An alternative option is to purchase all alcohol-free chocolates. Assortments of fresh cream chocolates are also available.
The Carre Collection offers an array of chocolates containing different amounts of cocoa. One assortment has 72% of cocoa to satisfy the dark chocolate lover. The Truffle Collection presents varying amounts of truffles with assorted flavors. There also is a Platinum line as well as a Gourmet selection to add to the variety.
Godiva Chocolates offer an assortment of teas as well as gourmet coffees in flavors such as Pralines. The Chocolixir, an original Godiva Chocolates’ creation, has been found to put a new spin on hot chocolate. One of the choices is called Chocolixir Spiced Chocolate; the other hot beverage is called Chocolixir Dark Chocolate Decadence, and there is also a choice of white chocolate raspberry as well as a milk chocolate coffee flavor.
The chocolates designed at Godiva are aptly chosen to provide an appealing display for the eyes as well as the mouth. Combined are the aroma, texture and flavor to make the tasting a unique experience. With such a large variety of chocolates to indulge in, mixed with choices of marzipan, liquors, fruits, pralines and ganache to name a few, enjoying Godiva Chocolate can – and should – be an ongoing treat.
