Monty Bojangles unveils it largest ever experiential so far with its immersive Temple of Monty Pop-Up

Monty Bojangles, the multi-award-winning UK confectionery brand, took over London’s King’s Cross Station at the end of October, unveiling its biggest and most spectacular event so far to date.

Many months in the making, the three-day-long experiential saw visitors transported into the Temple of Monty, an enchanting pop-up which delivered a shareable brand story, immersing visitors in Monty Bojangles’ magical world. 

Guided by a glowing path to the heart of the experience, guests were surrounded by a lush botanical garden, filled with Monty’s tropical creatures and wonderous cocoa beans, culminating in being greeted by a 9ft tall recreation of the brand’s iconic Persian Pink Cat Tin, marking Monty’s largest creation in history. 

The impact on visitors was clear, with many positive comments including, “I have travelled over two hours away just to come down and check it out. I am a massive fan!”, “I love the brand already, and after this event, I’ve fallen in love with it even more.” and “Inside the tent felt like a mini theme park with all the lights and a magical atmosphere.” 

The bold experiential also saw the return of the brand’s engaging spin the wheel game, giving guests the chance to win an array of prizes, including Monty’s award-winning truffles, limited-edition Persian Pink Cat-paraphernalia, and iconic Kit-Tins. 

With over 42,000 of Monty Bojangles chocolatey truffles sampled across the full campaign, one visitor commented, “I have seen these chocolate truffles in loads of shops but didn’t want to buy them in case I didn’t like them. After trying it today, I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to buy some more of the flavours.” 

What’s more, a hot air balloon photo opportunity was also stationed on site, meaning guests were able to walk away with a fun memento of their experience, ensuring the brand remained front of mind for consumers once the event had wrapped.

Sally Fenton, who has the utterly enviable position of Marketing Manager at Monty Bojangles, said, “Our Cat Tins have truly become Monty Bojangles icons, adored by many and now proudly stocked in Waitrose and Sainsbury’s. 

"This weekend’s experiential event was the ultimate celebration of that. Watching faces light up as guests entered the tent and saw the reveal of our largest Persian Pink Cat Tin yet was unforgettable. The energy was electric, with high footfall and queues throughout the day, as guests spun the prize wheel for exclusive treats, with plenty of free truffles adding to the excitement.

"Many sampled Monty Bojangles Chocolatey Truffles for the first time, while others discovered exciting new flavours from our range! The keepsake Polaroids taken on Monty’s hot air balloon were also a hit, giving everyone a unique memento of this magical day. 

"With King’s Cross and all of London illuminated by our out-of-home campaign and our radio ads echoing across the city on Heart London, this has been our most impactful brand experience yet. A big thank you to everyone who joined us and made it an unforgettable experience.”

Building excitement for the three-day installation at King’s Cross, the brand also took its magic on the road, preceding the main event with a five-day London trike tour, visiting Cardinal Place, Angel Central, Southside Wandsworth, Ealing Broadway and Liverpool Street Station. Supported by the brand’s OOH and radio advertisements, the multifaceted campaign ensured the Temple of Monty was the brand’s most successful experience to date.  

My wife and I have found that our favourite delicatessen stocks Monty Bojangles, which has pleased us immensely, as you can imagine! Christmas presents have already been sorted out for deserving family and friends! 

https://montybojangles.com

Perfect Christmas Gifts for Lovers of Hot Drinks

The Christmas season is nearly upon us, and the festive spirit fills the air with warmth and joy. If you’re on the hunt for Christmas gifts, you can never go wrong with a delightful selection of hot drinks.

 Whether your loved ones are coffee aficionados, tea enthusiasts, or hot chocolate connoisseurs, there's nothing quite like the comfort of a steaming mug on a cold winter’s day. 

To help you with your gift-giving this Christmas, we’ve compiled a list of perfect presents for anyone who enjoys a cosy cuppa.

1. Specialty Coffee Gift Packs

For those who can't start their day without a cup of coffee, a thoughtfully curated coffee gift set is a guaranteed hit. Opt for a selection that includes beans or ground coffee sourced from various regions. Look for brands offering unique blends, like rich, full-bodied coffees from Colombia or fruity, lighter roasts from Ethiopia. Many roasters now include detailed tasting notes, which can make the experience even more enjoyable.

Gift Idea: For a touch of luxury, consider a gift pack that includes flavoured syrups, like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, along with a bag of freshly roasted beans. Alternatively, subscription boxes that deliver fresh coffee every month are a gift that keeps on giving.

2. Artisan Loose Leaf Tea Sets

Tea is more than just a drink—it's a ritual. Whether your giftee prefers classic English Breakfast, soothing herbal infusions, or fragrant chai, a beautiful tea set can transform an everyday moment into something special. Look for high-quality loose leaf options presented in elegant tins or boxes. To create a truly luxurious gift, include a tea infuser and a charming mug.

Gift Idea: Consider selecting a themed set, such as a winter wellness tea box filled with blends designed to warm and comfort. Matcha enthusiasts might appreciate a matcha starter kit complete with a bamboo whisk, bowl, and premium-grade matcha powder.

3. Indulgent Hot Chocolate Hampers

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a cup of hot chocolate. Perfect for a cosy evening by the fire, a hot chocolate gift set can be a heart-warming present for both children and adults alike. Look for kits that include artisanal hot chocolate powders, marshmallows, and perhaps even a dash of peppermint or cinnamon for added festivity.

Gift Idea: For a luxurious twist, seek out hot chocolate flakes made from real chocolate rather than powder. Add a selection of gourmet toppings like salted caramel sauce, chocolate shavings, and flavoured marshmallows for a truly indulgent experience.

4. Specialty Mugs and Drinkware

A beautifully crafted mug can make enjoying a favourite hot drink even more special. Opt for hand-painted ceramics, double-walled glass mugs to keep drinks warmer for longer, or insulated travel mugs for those always on the go. Personalised mugs with names, initials, or a heartfelt message are also a thoughtful choice.

Gift Idea: Pair the mug with a matching coaster, or include a reusable coffee cup for eco-conscious friends who love grabbing a coffee to go.

5. Luxury Drink Accessories

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a gift truly special. If you’re looking for something a bit different, consider adding a few accessories to enhance your loved one's hot drink experience. From electric milk frothers for making café-quality lattes at home to temperature-controlled smart mugs that keep drinks at the perfect sipping temperature, these gifts are perfect for the true hot drink enthusiast.

Gift Idea: A beautifully crafted tea storage box, a set of flavoured coffee creamers, or a collection of botanical syrups can elevate their daily beverage routine.

6. Themed Gift Baskets

If you’re undecided on one particular type of drink, why not combine a few? Themed gift baskets are a versatile option that can be tailored to suit different tastes. You could create a “Winter Warmers” basket filled with hot drinks, cosy socks, and a scented candle, or an “Around the World” hamper featuring coffee and tea from different countries.

Gift Idea: Assemble your own basket by selecting artisanal products from local shops or markets. You could even add some homemade biscuits or chocolates for a personal touch.

7. Subscription Services

For a gift that keeps on giving long after Christmas, consider a subscription service. Whether it's a coffee subscription delivering fresh beans from different roasters, a tea club that introduces new flavours each month, or a hot chocolate subscription with seasonal flavours, this is the perfect present for anyone who loves trying new things.

Gift Idea: Pair the subscription with a beautifully designed journal so they can keep track of their tasting notes and favourite brews.

(Christmas) Wrapping It Up: Thoughtful Extras

To add an extra layer of festivity to your gift, consider including a few thoughtful extras. You could pop in some cinnamon sticks, a jar of locally sourced honey, or a small bottle of flavoured syrup. A handwritten note with a heartfelt message wishing them a warm and cosy Christmas would be the perfect finishing touch.

This Christmas, help your loved ones find joy in the little moments—like sipping a hot drink by the fire on a cold winter’s night. With these gifts, you're not just giving a drink; you're gifting comfort, warmth, and a touch of holiday magic.

As for me? A luxury chocolate drinks hamper is Christmas gifting perfection! 

Happy gifting, and cheers to a season filled with warmth and togetherness!

Christmas Drinks: Mulled Wine, Eggnog, and Other Festive Favourites

Christmas is a time for indulgence, celebration, and of course, delicious festive drinks to keep the chill at bay.

As the cold winds blow and twinkling lights adorn our homes, there’s nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm mug or glass brimming with seasonal flavours.

From the traditional mulled wine to creamy eggnog, these drinks are perfect for adding a bit of warmth and cheer to your holiday season. 

Here are some classic recipes and a few twists on festive favourites to try this Christmas.

1. Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a quintessential Christmas drink that’s popular across Europe, and for good reason. This warm, spiced red wine, infused with seasonal aromas, is the perfect antidote to winter’s cold.

Ingredients:

1 bottle of red wine (a fruity one like Merlot or Shiraz works well)

1 orange, sliced

2 cinnamon sticks

4 cloves

3 star anise

2 tablespoons honey or sugar (adjust to taste)

60ml brandy (optional but adds a nice kick)

A pinch of nutmeg

Fresh cranberries (for garnish)

Method:

Pour the wine into a large saucepan and add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

Heat gently, making sure the wine doesn’t boil. You want it to simmer slowly to allow the spices to infuse.

Add the honey or sugar, stirring until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

Stir in the brandy, if using, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Simmer for about 20 minutes, then remove from the heat. Strain out the spices before serving.

Garnish with fresh cranberries or a cinnamon stick in each glass.

Pro tip: If you’re making mulled wine for a gathering, use a slow cooker to keep it warm throughout the evening.

2. Eggnog

Eggnog is a rich, creamy drink traditionally enjoyed during Christmas. Its comforting, velvety texture and the gentle warmth of nutmeg make it a festive favourite. While it’s more commonly associated with the US, it’s gaining popularity in the UK as well.

Ingredients:

500ml whole milk

250ml double cream

3 large eggs

100g caster sugar

100ml rum, brandy, or bourbon (optional)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Grated nutmeg (for garnish)

Method:

Whisk the eggs and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy.

In a saucepan, gently heat the milk and cream over a low heat until warm (don’t let it boil).

Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking continuously to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Return the mixture to the pan and heat gently until it thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).

Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and alcohol, if using.

Chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavours meld.

Serve cold, with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg on top.

Pro tip: For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum or brandy. You can also add a dash of vanilla syrup for extra sweetness.

3. Hot Chocolate with a Festive Twist

Nothing says cosy quite like a steaming mug of hot chocolate. But this isn’t your standard cocoa. We’re elevating it with Christmas spices and a dash of liqueur to bring some festive flair.

Ingredients:

500ml whole milk

100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped

1 tablespoon cocoa powder

1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

1 cinnamon stick

1 star anise

50ml Baileys, Amaretto, or spiced rum (optional)

Whipped cream and marshmallows (for topping)

Grated chocolate or a pinch of ground cinnamon (for garnish)

Method:

Heat the milk in a saucepan over low heat, then add the cinnamon stick and star anise to infuse the milk with festive flavours.

Once the milk is warm, remove the spices and stir in the chopped chocolate and cocoa powder until melted and smooth.

Add sugar to taste, if desired, and continue to stir until the hot chocolate is thick and creamy.

Remove from the heat and stir in your choice of liqueur, if using.

Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a sprinkle of grated chocolate or cinnamon.

Pro tip: For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk, and dark chocolate that doesn’t contain milk solids.

4. Spiced Apple Cider

If you prefer something lighter and non-alcoholic, spiced apple cider is a great choice. This drink is packed with the flavours of cinnamon, cloves, and apples, making it a wonderful alternative to mulled wine.

Ingredients:

1 litre apple juice or cider

1 orange, sliced

2 cinnamon sticks

5 cloves

2 star anise

1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

A pinch of ground ginger or allspice

Method:

In a large saucepan, combine the apple juice, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.

Gently simmer over low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.

Stir in honey or brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter drink, and add a pinch of ginger or allspice for extra warmth.

Strain the spices and orange slices before serving.

Serve warm in mugs, and garnish with a cinnamon stick or star anise.

Pro tip: You can easily spike this drink with a shot of rum or brandy for an adult version.

5. Gingerbread Latte

A gingerbread latte is a warming treat that combines the rich flavours of coffee with the spices of gingerbread – perfect for a festive morning or as a cosy afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

1 shot of espresso (or strong coffee)

250ml milk (or dairy-free alternative)

1 tablespoon gingerbread syrup (you can buy this or make your own)

A pinch of ground cinnamon and ginger

Whipped cream (optional)

A gingerbread biscuit (for garnish)

Method:

Heat the milk in a saucepan or use a milk frother until steaming.

Add the gingerbread syrup and a pinch of cinnamon and ginger to the milk, stirring to combine.

Pour the espresso into a mug, then add the spiced milk mixture.

Top with whipped cream and garnish with a gingerbread biscuit on the side.

Pro tip: To make your own gingerbread syrup, simmer 100g brown sugar, 100ml water, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon for 5-10 minutes until thickened.

Whether you're hosting a Christmas gathering or simply enjoying a cosy night in by the fire, these festive drinks are sure to warm your heart and lift your spirits. Cheers to a warm and merry Christmas!

Chocs Away! Gift Russell & Atwell's Fresh Chocolates This Christmas

Share the pure joy of fresh flavours this Christmas by gifting the exceptional taste and experience of fresh chocolates from emerging British chocolate brand Russell & Atwell.

Made using only 100% real ingredients and never with palm oil, their hand-finished fresh chocolates have an irresistible 'double crack' bite sensation. 

Each chocolate has a thin outer chocolate shell that once cracked open, leads to a smooth, scrumptious centre, packed with flavour and created with Fino de Aroma Colombian cocoa, finishing with a deeply indulgent bottom layer of chocolate.

Russell & Atwell use the highest quality and sustainable ingredients sourced only from small ethical, predominantly British producers. 

Their chocolates are made from responsibly sourced cocoa, fresh organic British cream and butter, Essex Borage and Salisbury Plain wildflower honey and just a pinch of Dorset Sea Salt. This award-winning combination creates a moreish blend of taste and texture, making every bite a truly indulgent chocolate experience.

Committed to sustainability, Russell & Atwell's fresh chocolate pouches are recyclable and their glass jars are designed to be refilled with their paper eco pouches. With British honey a key ingredient in their chocolate, Russell & Atwell also supports the Buglife charity which plants vital wildflower B-Lines for bees and other pollinators with every pouch sold.

Founded by former Cadbury and Godiva employees Giles Atwell and Steve Russell who have a combined 35 years experience of working on world famous chocolate brands and 103 years heritage in the industry, Russell & Atwell became a runaway success on BBC1's Dragon Den, securing investment from entrepreneurs Steven Bartlett and Peter Jones.

Watch Giles and Steve discussing why fresh is best here.

Russell & Atwell's fresh 'double crack' chocolates: an outer shell that cracks, a scrumptious, smooth centre and a thick chocolatey bottom layer

Christmas Highlights

Great Taste Award Winning Seville Orange Pouch (90g), 12 chocolates, £8.00

Zesty, fruity and with a hint of tartness, this festive flavour is a special limited edition for Christmas. Russell & Atwell's signature fresh chocolate envelops a super smooth Seville orange, marmalade-like centre, made from real Seville oranges. 

NEW Nutty Blonde Pouch (90g), 12 chocolates, £8.00

A match made in fresh chocolate heaven, Nutty Blonde is the incredible tasting fusion of two of Russell & Atwell's best sellers: Dirty Blond and Cracking Hazelnut. They're made with real Italian Roma Hazelnuts that have been roasted in their shell for a fuller, deeper flavour.

Great Taste Award Winning Marc de Champagne Pouch (90g), 12 chocolates, £8.50

A 2024 Great Taste award-winner, these rich, dark fresh chocolates have a creamy chocolatey centre laced with real Marc de Champagne.

Triple Monty Pack, Seville Orange or a Limited Edition flavour, x 3 pouches (90g) of 12 chocolates, £22

Enjoy some of Russell & Atwell's  favourite flavours not once, not twice but three times with the Triple Monty. Three pouches of fresh chocolates in either Seville Orange or a Limited Edition flavour.

Mega Monty Pack x 6 pouches (90g)of 12 chocolates, £39

What's not to love about a Mega Monty Pack?  Featuring one pouch each of Creamy Milk, Smooth Dark, Salted Caramel, Seville Orange, Creamy Hazelnut and Dirty Blond fresh chocolate - there's something for everyone!

Russell & Atwell's Refillable Fresh Chocolate Glass jars

Milk & Salted Caramel Refillable Fresh Chocolate Glass Jar Pack, £32 (160g per jar)

A special festive pack of Russell & Atwell's best selling premium glass jars of Creamy Milk and Salted Caramel. Containing one jar of each flavour, with 20 chocolates per jar, they're perfect for giving, sharing or treating yourself at home. The jars are made to be refilled and reused with their bio-degradable, recyclable Eco-Pouches, so you need never run out of chocolates again!

Chocolate Subscription - available from 1st December 2024

Choose from a 3, 6 or 12 month gift subscription, featuring three recyclable pouches (90g) of curated combinations for Milk Lovers (Blond Monty or Golden Monty), Nut Lovers (Nutty Monty), Dark Lovers (Dark Monty)  fresh chocolates, delivered to your door in a letterbox friendly pack every month. 

Russell & Atwell's full range is available online at russellandatwell.com or in select delicatessens including Panzers and also Booth's supermarkets. 

Cocoba Chocolate and The Gruffalo collaborate for an exciting partnership!

Kent's very own Cocoba, the county's top chocolatier, famed for producing delectable and utterly irresistible chocolate and hot chocolatey gifts, has launched a special brand-new product by teaming up in partnership with The Gruffalo. 

The Gruffalo, the best-selling children’s picture book created by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, is licensed by Magic Light Pictures.

Watch in delight as children (and grown-ups alike) immerse themselves into the magical world of The Gruffalo. Cocoba have created a Belgian chocolate bombe shaped as the much-loved Gruffalo character that, when submerged in hot milk, reveals delightful surprises within. As the steaming hot milk melts the chocolate, it uncovers delicious fluffy mini marshmallows nestled within.

The range also includes Gruffalo-themed hot chocolate spoons, perfect for stirring into warm milk to create a rich and creamy hot chocolate. Additionally, Cocoba offers Gruffalo-themed chocolatey bites, and Gruffalo hot chocolate stirrers, each adding a touch of magic and deliciousness to your hot chocolate experience.

"We're really utterly thrilled to announce our partnership with The Gruffalo. This marks an incredibly exciting time for Cocoba as we team up with this beloved children's story. Our dedication to crafting magic, innovation, and delicious products is unmatched,” said Founder and self-admitted chief chocaholic Darren Litton.

With prices starting at a decent £2.95 and also beautifully packaged, The Gruffalo range is ideal for gifting or for a delightful treat anytime. That's Christmas thinks these will be making their ways into Christmas stockings aand from them into appreciative tummies all over the UK. 

We personally feel you should buy at lease double the amount you were thinking of so that you can get together and have a Gruffalo and Cocoba themed chocolate session as part of your Christmas festivities this year. Maybe a good new family Christmas tradition to start?

Please visit Cocoba Chocolate’s website for more information including the hot chocolate bombes, spoons and vegan product range at www.CocobaChocolate.com

Sweet Spot: Islands Chocolate Launches Decadent Gifts in Fortnum & Mason and Liberty in Time for Christmas

Priding itself as a family-run company, Islands Chocolate stands out as one of the few chocolate brands with its own cocoa farms, located in the Caribbean. 

Embracing the spirit of ethical gifting, the company's employees not only earn considerably higher than the national living wage in St Vincent but also very considerably surpass the equivalent Fairtrade standard in Africa, from where most cocoa comes from.

Their chocolate is used in the kitchens of renowned chefs like Tom Kerridge, Phil Howard and Heston Blumenthal. The carefully crafted chocolate is designed to elevate both the art of baking and the joy of savouring each delectable bite.

Discover the perfect Christmas gift for the master baker or chocolate lover in your life with these beautifully designed 200g tins of heavenly delights:

75% Dark Chocolate - 200G

The 75% is the most versatile chocolate of the range, balancing a high cocoa percentage with well-rounded flavours. Aromas of jammy dried fruit and caramelised honey carry are accompanied with bursts of fresh citrus and ripe banana, notes of dark caramel and sweet spices with a warming finish. These are priced at £8.95.

55% Milk Chocolate - 200G

The 55% Dark Milk couples the sweet, creamy nostalgia of a milk chocolate with intensely flavourful St Vincent cocoa to curate a mature, versatile coating when used in baking. Aromas of toffee and malt develop further in the flavour, leading to an explosion of buttery caramel and rich creaminess, perfectly balanced by a light acidity and fruity banana notes. These are priced at £8.95.

37% White Chocolate Giant Button

Caribbean cocoa butter offers complex, chocolatey flavours and well balanced sweetness, combined with creamy whole milk and a hint of salt for a uniquely sophisticated white chocolate flavour. These are priced at £8.95.

55% Dark Flakes Hot Chocolate

The 55% Dark Flakes create an indulgent luxurious hot chocolate like no other. Notes of rich caramel and zesty orange are expertly complemented by deep cocoa flavours. This tin is specially crafted for the ultimate hot chocolate experience, available at Bayley & Sage, Real Eating Co and online. Launching early December These are priced at £8.95.

By buying a gift from Islands Chocolate this holiday season, you can not only bake with chocolate used by some of the UK's top chefs, you can make a stand against unethical practices in the cocoa supply chain. And these embossed, vibrantly coloured tins will look fantastic on your kitchen shelf!

Founder Wilf Marriott said: "Cheap, poor-quality chocolate tainted by slavery, child labour and deforestation is just not acceptable - people and our planet deserve better, especially this festive season. Islands Chocolate proudly leads the charge with a deliciously ethical alternative, with every bite telling a story of ethical indulgence.”

For more general information visit www.islandschocolate.com

Cocoba Chocolate introduces Fantastic Christmas gifting range

Cocoba, the Kent-based chocolate company which is renowned for producing irresistible chocolate and hot chocolate gifts, has launched this year’s very special Christmas gifting range.  

From a very cheery Santa & His Reindeer Chocolate Bites, to a beautifully presented Hot Chocolate Bombe Christmas Bauble and delicious Hot Chocolate Christmas Puddings, Cocoba’s Christmas gifting range really has something for everyone. 

Cocoba Chocolate has also created delicious, stunning Christmas Hampers crammed full of many delicious treats; you needn’t look further than Cocoba for a complete range of festive gifts to get everyone fully into the Christmas spirit.

Share some yuletide joy this Christmas with Cocoba’s Santa & His Reindeer Chocolate Bites at £9.95. Each box includes a sweet collection of bitesize festive characters, all handmade using high quality Belgian milk chocolate in the shape of Santa and his Reindeers. 

Presented in a beautiful selection box, the seasonal chocolate bites make a fun and loveable gift to bring out the child in everyone this Christmas season.

Discover the magical Hot Chocolate Bombe Christmas Bauble, which is an utterly fantastic festive tin bauble decorated with Cocoba Christmas characters, containing a Belgian hot chocolate bombe that has a generous helping of yummy fluffy marshmallows. A must-have addition for hanging on the Christmas tree or a great surprise to gift as a Secret Santa present or stocking filler for a very nifty £4.95.

Bursting with a generous helping of mini marshmallows, the delicious Christmas Pudding Hot Chocolate Bombe is handcrafted from silky Belgian milk and delicious white chocolate. At just £3.95 the Christmas Pudding Hot Chocolate Bombe makes a sweet surprise for stockings, Christmas Eve boxes, or for festive hampers to delight your family and friends. 

Finally, Cocoba has it all wrapped up with a collection of exquisite Christmas hampers starting out at £19.99.  Each hamper is carefully put together to display an array of delicious, yummy chocolate treats, fastened with a special hand-tied ribbon to add just that perfect finishing touch. 

Please visit Cocoba Chocolate’s website for more information including the lovely Christmas vegan product range. www.CocobaChocolate.com

Cocoba’s chocolate products include Belgian hot chocolate, chocolate bars and lollipops, truffles and buttons, and a growing range of vegan dark and ‘milk’ chocolate. 

Cocoba’s range is available from www.CocobaChocolate.com. But if you live in Kent, why not visit Cocoba’s flagship chocolate café at the Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent?

They are also available via independent farm shops, good delis, John Lewis, Selfridges and more, besides.  All products are handmade in Kent.

Incidentally, if you want a 10% deduction in the price you pay, please join their mailing list. Also, remember deliveries on orders over £35 are free, please check for details.

Check them out on socials:-

Instagram: @cocobachocolate

Facebook: @CocobaChocolate

Pinterest: @CocobaChocolate

TikTock: @cocobachocolate

Twitter: @CocobaChocolate

https://www.cocobachocolate.com

Flowers still top Valentine lists

The latest user survey conducted by dedicated money-saving website DiscountVouchers.co.uk has this week revealed that the majority of Britons still rate the top Valentine’s Day gift to be flowers.

DiscountVouchers.co.uk regularly surveys its site users and this week reveals that the leading Valentine's Day gift is flowers, with 40% of respondents picking this. Next in the poll results was jewellery with 34% while the poll also showed that 9% of people prefer not to give any gift at all Valentine's Day.

The top ten Valentine’s Day presents uncovered by the voucher codes website poll were: 1. Flowers. 2. Jewellery. 3. Nothing. 4. Chocolates. 5. Champagne. 6. Lingerie. 7. Teddy bear. 8. Simple card. 9. Perfume. 10. CD.

For more information visit www.discountvouchers.co.uk

Guylian for Christmas

Stuck for Christmas inspiration? Look no further than a delicious box of Guylian Chocolates from the world’s favourite Belgian chocolatier. Because almost everyone who likes chocolate will love Guylian.

And their Christmas range has something for everyone, and as Guylian is stocked throughout the high street, it’s easy to pick up a box of Guylian chocolates when you hit the shops this Christmas.

Guylian Belgium Classics

A selection of Guylian favourites – Original Seashells, La Trufflina and Opus. Pre packaged into a stylish and generous 540g gift box, they provide an excellent tabletop box for visitors to select from, but be warned – this tempting selection box won’t stay full for long!

Guylian Praline Seashells

Only the finest, hand selected Mediterranean hazelnuts are roasted and   caramelised, before being blended with premium Belgian chocolate to make this iconic and best selling box of Guylian chocolates. You’ll struggle to find anyone who won’t be delighted with a box of these come Christmas morning. Available in a variety of sizes from most major high street retailers, it’s easy to pick up a box at the last minute too. Available in a selection of sizes.

Guylian Seashells Selection

 This stunning combination of original and dark praline seashells are perfect for impressing discerning guests and relatives this Christmas. 

Guylian Opus

Opus is a selection of assorted Guylian chocolates masterpieces, each named after internationally renowned operas like Aida and Romeo and Juliet, and each with a different centre. Opus are also available in an already beautifully gift wrapped in a double layer, continental ballotin box with a luxurious ribbon that is the prefect ready-made gift-to-go. 

Guylian La Trufflina

A stunning combination of premium dark, milk and white chocolate Belgian truffles, La Trufflina is also available in a gift wrapped option for a luxurious last minute gift.  

Guylian’s Temptations

Guylian’s Temptations are a premium gift ideal for sharing. Individually wrapped finest Guylian chocolates in the iconic seahorse shape are available in a choice of the three most popular flavours; original praline, dark praline, and milk truffle. The packaging doubles up as a sharing box, but if you don’t like to share, Guylian’s Temp tations are also available in handy impulse packs for the ultimate in self indulgence this Christmas. RSP 

Stocking Fillers

Both Guylian’s Original and Extra Praline Seashells are also available in 65g mini gift boxes for the perfect stocking filler.

Available in all good supermarkets and chocalatiers, it's also available in some duty free shops so look out for them if you are going abroad for Christmas and need to pick up a good Chirstmas present at the airport or the terminal!

From You to me! A teddy to eat, a teddy to keep!

From You to Me have come up with the perfect Chirstmas gift this year: Two Tatty Teddy's in a box. One made from exquisite Belgian chocolate, the other a delightfully cuddly Tatty Teddy that you can keep for ever!

Both bears feature the special blue nose beloved of Tatty Teddy fans the world over and they come in a delightful presentation pack with an illustration of Tatty Teddy with a Christmas stocking! It's unbearably cute! (Sorry!)

The special presentation packs are priced at a modest £6.99 and are available from selected Morrison stores, nationwide.

It makes an ideal present for a mum, a daughter, a sister or a dear friend. It's certainly something that will be a beloved and treasured gift for many, many years to come. Because everyone loves Tatty Teddy!

Festive cheer from Guylian this Christmas

Christmas is all about enjoying time with family and friends. What better way to do this than with a box of Guylian chocolates? The world’s favourite Belgian chocolatier has something for everyone, and is certain to keep all the family happy. Available from all high street retailers, Guylian is a perfect accompaniment to your shopping basket this Christmas.

Guylian Praline Seashells
Only the finest hand selected Mediterranean hazelnuts are     roasted, caramelised and added to premium Belgian      chocolate to make this delicious and iconic box of Guylian chocolates. Available in a variety of sizes from most major high street retailers, it’s easy to pick up a box at the last minute and you will struggle to find anyone who is not delighted with a box of Seashells. Guylian Seashells are also available as a stocking filler (65g) and new for 2011 is the Guylian  Seahorse impulse pack (46g) from £1.

Luxury Belgian Collection

This luxurious gift box is a refined combination of Guylian Seahorses, Original Praliné, Opus Belgian Pralines and La Perlina Milk Truffle chocolates. Wrapped in a luxurious golden foil this elegant box with its dark brown chocolate ribbon makes it the perfect gift. The selection is available in a luxurious gift box ranging in size from 258g to 717g. RSP dependant on pack size.

Guylian Opus

Named after internationally renowned operas like Aida and Romeo and Juliet, Guylian’s Opus selection will surprise you with their different centres. Opus are also available in a beautifully gift wrapped double layered continental ballotin box with a luxurious ribbon, making it the prefect ready-made gift-to-go. RSP from £2.49 to £6.49.

La Trufflina

This visually stunning combination of premium dark, milk and white chocolate Belgian truffles; La Trufflina is hard to beat when looking for a gift this Christmas. La Trufflina is also available in a gift wrapped option for a luxurious last minute gift. RSP from £2.49 to £6.49.

La Perlina

Made from 74% dark or milk chocolate and filled with a velvety smooth milk truffle centre, Guylian’s 132g La Perlina box provides an intense chocolate sensation, guaranteed to appease chocolate lovers this Christmas. Available in a choice of milk or dark truffles. RSP £3.99.

Let Swizzels Matlow bring you the sweetest Christmas, ever!

Top UK sweet makers, Swizzels Matlow Ltd have introduced a new range of Chirstmas sweet treat stocking fillers.

Swizzels Matlow is as great a tradition as Fish and Chips, and probably with older roots, and their new range of gigantic and Christmas decorated tubes will be a great addition to anyone's stocking this Christmas. And they contain no artificial colours and are eminently suitable for vegetarians, too.

And if you have to buy Chirstmas confectionery for people who either do not like chocolate or who are allergic to chocolate, these gigantic tubes (they come filled with Love Hearts, Drumsticks or Refreshers) will comes as a real festive treat for them.

As Sarah-Louise Heslop, the marketing manager at Swizzels Matlow points out: "This exciting new Christmas range is the perfect stocking filler or gift for relatives or friends who you are stuck to buy something for. They provide a refreshing alternative to chocolate and are the first in a new range of Christmas products."

Swizzels Matlow is the UKs largest family-owned independent sugar confectioners and one of the very few firms still making sweets within the UK, so buying their sweets makes a lot of sense!

Also look out for their Rainbow Drops, Double Lollies, Fruity Pops, etc.

Handmade Chocolates from Choconchoc for Christmas

There's one sure fire way to the heart of a chocolate lover at Christmas (or any other time of the year, to be fair!) is to give them chocolates.

But not any old chocolates! Oh, no. For if you seek out the best in chocolate sensation, taste and look, you can be certain of one thing, that the recipient of your gift will love you (and the memory of their very special chocolate present) for ever!

One such crafter of highly delectable chocolate comestibles is Choconchoc.

From their special confectioners establishment nestled deep within the heart of rural Somerset, they design and produce some of the most exquisite chocolate treats known to man or woman.

Flo and Kerr. The chief chocolate makers choose only the finest of ingredients, such as the best quality Belgian chocolate, top quality milk and so on to ensure that whoever opens their box of Choconchoc chocolates will receive a treat not only for the mouth but also for the eyes.

Because not only are they highly desirable chocolates, they are also works of art in miniature. So much so that it is something of a struggle to begin eating them!

But don't just take our word for it! Visit www.choconchoc.co.uk to see precisely what we mean! Or give them a call on 01373 830013.