Why are some truffles are huge—two inches or more in diameter, an uber-indulgence, more turtle than truffle. And other truffles are teeny: little jewels that are nice to look at, but not enough of a mouthful that one can luxuriate in their flavors. The truffles from Chocolat Céleste are as truffles should be – just right. That is 1-1/2 inch diameter and tastes, well, just right. The chocolatier and owner, Mary Leonard, refers to them as “grand.” Celeste, by the way, is French for heavenly.
And these heavenly truffles are grandly made from fine 65% to 75% cacao chocolate, fresh cream from American’s heartland, and a flavor palette of two dozen favorites. There are the traditional classics like Pear Cognac, Raspberry, and Champagne; “new classics” like Dulce de Leche, Chai, and Hot Chile Pepper; and seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice and Cranberry. Individually handmade each day, they have no preservatives. Along with real chocolates health benefits this is your excuse to eat them promptly and daily.
Clever “special editions” include Political Chocolate Bonbons (ya know the elephant or donkeys), Grand Cru Chocolate Ganache Bonbons made from Felchlin origin couverture (from the photo they look darn good), Bichon Frisé Bonbons with a smiling dog illustrated on the top of each, a Summer Cocktail Collection which are ganaches flavored with Mimosa, Piña Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri and Margarita and Artisan Bonbons with abstract designs in pink and green.
Ms. Leonard took the plunge and left behind a senior position with a large information technology company to become a chocolatier. She originally conceived of her truffles as luxury corporate and executive gifts. But she opened a retail shop so that all consumers could enjoy them. Ms. Leonard has a Truffle of the Month Club allowing you to enjoy them on a regular basis.
Ms. Leonard also has keen interest in chocolate and wine pairings. She regularly holds tastings to introduce chocolate lovers to the joy of finding the right wine or spirit to match individual truffle flavors. So if you’re in the St. Paul, Minnesota area or planning a trip there, call to see if you can attend one.
Whether in a celestial pairing of fine chocolate and rare vintage wine, or nibbled from the box one by one, Chocolat Céleste is a required stop on the chocolate connoisseurs’ tour of fine truffles.
For your favorite executive, best friend, neighbor,
relative…or the most deserving person of all, you.
