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Chocolate of Reims: mouthfuls of handmade monk-made chocolate

The monastic monks made me eat chocolate …. because they made it taste so good …

MARTINA NICOLLS

Jan 12

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The city of Reims in France, 129 kilometres (80 miles) northeast of Paris, is known for its Notre Dame Cathedral, Champagne, pink biscuits, and chocolate.

Reims lies in the heart of Champagne country, but among the treasures of the region, for example, is the chocolate of Chocolaterie Abbaye d’Igny, blending history, monastic spirituality, and craftsmanship.

The origins of monastic chocolate-making in Reims are deeply tied to the traditions of the Abbaye d’Igny, a Trappist monastery located near the city. The abbey’s roots go back to the 12^th century, but its legacy as a chocolate-making center began in the 20^th century. The Trappist nuns, known for their self-sufficient and contemplative lifestyle, began producing chocolate as a means of sustaining their abbey. The Chocolaterie Abbaye d’Igny became famous for its pralines, truffles, and other artisanal chocolate creations, with each piece reflecting the monks' and nuns' meticulous care and commitment to excellence.

What makes Abbaye d’Igny Chocolate special to me are its authentic monastic craftmanship, the use of local and natural ingredients, and its sustainability. Unlike mass-produced chocolate, the abbey’s chocolate is made in small batches using methods passed down through generations. The focus is on purity, flavor, and preserving the spiritual heritage of the monastic traditions. Every chocolate made at the abbey supports the maintenance of the monastery and its charitable works.

The chocolaterie of the monastery sources its cocoa beans from sustainable growers and incorporates ingredients from the surrounding Champagne region, such as honey, almonds, and hazelnuts. The Abbaye d’Igny is particularly famous for its “Bouchons de Chocolat” (“Chocolate Caps”) – small chocolate treats shaped like Champagne corks. Of course, I bought them, tasted them, and loved them – and will go back for more!