Chocolate Making Influences An Ethical And Sustainable Approach
Sharing and self-inspired experiences create gifts and treats to savor
Photo: Tory Lynn Photography
The love of chocolate and a dedication to learning and perfecting the chocolate making process has driven Ritual Chocolate from its inception in 2010. Ritual Chocolate President, Anna Seear, has been leading the team from the start and describes the company’s humble beginnings. “We started out in a 400-square foot studio and test kitchen in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado,” she says. “Our first space was absolutely filled with equipment and the aroma of cacao.”
Since then, the company has grown and is now based in the Park City, Utah area. “Today, we have the space and capability to combine the best old-world techniques with newer machinery. We continue to learn, and we use this knowledge to craft the highest quality, smoothest chocolate possible.” Ritual Chocolate seeks long-term partnerships with farmers and co-operative farms that set the bar for environmental consideration, flavor, quality, economic sustainability, and social impact.
Photo: Tory Lynn Photography
“The heart of our success originates in sourcing the best quality and unique cacao from sustainable farms,” notes Seear. “Our chocolate line focuses on the inspiration of the Rocky Mountain West, and we use ingredients such as local lavender, and honey from hives in the Wasatch Range.” A hybrid manufacturing technique weaving traditional European methods with more modern techniques enhances product development. Seasonal gifts and curated bundles are available to be shipped to the recipient, and a monthly subscription provides the special taste of sweetness year-round. “Our hot cocoa drops make a divinely drinkable cup of chocolate, and a specialty cocoa drop to add to coffee turns the ordinary cup into a treat to savor.
For the upcoming holidays, Ritual Chocolate has created special gift items perfect for any chocolate lover on your list. Gingerbread spiced Hygge drinking chocolate creates space for a relaxing moment during the hustle and bustle, and a holiday spiced chocolate bar trio will make everyone’s mouth water. “Our chocolates are sold nationally through our online retail site and at partners like Whole Foods,” Seear says. Looking ahead to springtime, the company is hard at work perfecting a cherry-vanilla chocolate incorporating Utah cherries. Ritual Chocolate offers tours of their facility and tastings to showcase how their chocolate is made. Visit Ritual Chocolate to shop or book a private tour.
Photo: Tory Lynn Photography
Photo: Tory Lynn Photography
