The ultimate gift guide for dark chocolate lovers

There’s something incredibly enticing about dark chocolate. With its rich, diverse flavour profile, satisfying bitterness, and unmistakable intensity, dark chocolate is the kind of treat that begs to be savoured.

Of course, not everyone desires the dark stuff. Some crave the creamy embrace of milk chocolate, while others prefer the delicate vanilla notes of white. But for those who adore the complexity of cocoa, a box of deep, velvety dark chocolate is the best gift they can get.

In this guide, you’ll discover a curated selection of truly decadent dark chocolate gifts that are guaranteed to delight any cocoa connoisseur. Whether you’re buying for a friend, partner, or loved one, these options will make any occasion memorable.

Why do people love dark chocolate?

For lovers of dark chocolate, one of its most captivating qualities is its distinctive taste. With fruity notes, earthy undertones, and a bitterness that’s surprisingly balanced, its flavours unfold with every bite, revealing new depths and complexities.

But that’s not all that dark chocolate has to offer. Thanks to its high cocoa content, dark chocolate is packed with minerals, antioxidants and soluble fibre, allowing for an almost guilt-free way to indulge. Plus, when made without milk, it’s vegan-friendly*, making it a great plant-based chocolate gift option for vegan friends and family.

*Please note: We believe our dark and Nutmilk chocolate is suitable for vegans. However, as it is made in the same environment as our milk chocolate, we cannot guarantee it is free from milk.

Understanding cocoa percentages

When it comes to picking the perfect dark chocolate gift set, understanding cocoa percentages is a must. But — don’t worry — we know you’re not here for a maths lesson, so we’ll keep this short and sweet!

Here’s a quick overview to help you navigate the numbers:

• 70% and above: In this realm, dark chocolate reveals its true character: bold, complex, and utterly satisfying. The pronounced bitterness is balanced by a subtle sweetness, creating a sophisticated experience that will delight any dark chocolate connoisseur.
  
• 60–70%: This range offers a perfect balance for those seeking a more nuanced chocolate experience. The sweetness is still present, but it’s beautifully intertwined with the emerging bitterness of the cocoa, often accompanied by subtle notes of fruit or spice.
  
• 50–60%: 50–60 is the perfect starting point for those accustomed to milk chocolate. With a touch more sweetness than its higher-percentage counterparts, it offers a balanced and approachable flavour profile, often with delightful undertones that add complexity and intrigue.

Keep these numbers in mind while you’re shopping for chocolate gifts. Armed with this newfound knowledge, you’ll be a chocolate-gifting pro in no time!

Dark chocolate gifts for her

Gifting a special woman in your life? A touch of dark chocolate decadence never fails to impress. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or simply a gesture of appreciation, these elegant dark chocolate creations offer a moment of pure indulgence that’s sure to make her day.

For a lavish fruity gift with a praline twist, check out our Orange Marmalade Chocolate Selector. Combining 70% dark chocolate, zesty orange compote, and crispy hazelnut praline, these delicate little cups deliver a burst of sunshine with every bite — perfect for brightening any occasion.

Know a cocktail enthusiast who appreciates the finer things? Our Kir Royale blackcurrant truffles are a true celebration of sophisticated flavour. Think Mercier Champagne, Crème de Cassis, a touch of velvety whipping cream, and a splash of blackcurrant. Encased in a vibrant purple shell, these soft-centered truffles taste every bit as good as they look.

Want to spoil her with a truly unforgettable chocolate experience? We’ve got the perfect pick. Our Dark Signature collection is a curated journey through 17 iconic flavours — from the daring heat of chilli praline truffles to the classic simplicity of dark chocolate batons. Beautifully crafted and presented in a sleek black gift box, this assortment is a testament to the artistry of chocolate-making, sure to impress even the most discerning palate.

Dark chocolate gifts for him

And let’s not forget about the men…

Whether you’re shopping for a father, brother, partner, or friend, dark chocolate is a versatile gift that can be tailored to suit any taste. From lavish liqueur-centred truffles to high cocoa slabs with a satisfying snap, these carefully crafted indulgences are a delicious way to show the men in your life how much you care.

After a chocolate gift that’s anything but ordinary? Spice up his life with our Chipotle & Habanero Chocolate Selector. Far from your average chocolates, they offer a bold fusion of smoky chipotle and intense habanero, expertly balanced with nutty notes from dark chocolate praline, and lovingly wrapped in a smooth 70% dark chocolate shell. Perfect for the man who dares to be different.

If he prefers his chocolate dark and intense, go for our smooth 90% dark chocolate slab. Ideal for dark chocolate traditionalists, it offers a pure, unadulterated cocoa experience with just a touch of natural cocoa sugar to mellow the edge.

Buying for a man who savours his spirits? Treat him to a selection of our finest dark chocolate rum truffles. Each truffle is a decadent journey — smooth dark chocolate infused with the warmth of Chairman’s Reserve rum, distilled just a stone’s throw from our St. Lucian cocoa estate. A touch of cream adds a velvety texture, creating a truly sumptuous indulgence that celebrates the perfect pairing of rum and cocoa. Heaven!

Dark hot chocolate gifts

While some relish the crisp snap of a cold chocolate square or the playful practice of picking treats from a box, others find their cocoa bliss in a steaming mug. And for those who prefer to drink their chocolate, a cup of dark hot chocolate is a guaranteed winner.

Smooth, creamy, and decadent, our classic 70% dark chocolate sachets are popular for a reason. Whether enjoyed as they are with dairy or plant milk, or added to coffee for a barista-style treat, they’re a fail-safe option for any dark chocolate fan.

If your recipient can really handle their cocoa, go for our 100% dark hot chocolate. A truly intense, single-origin indulgence, it delivers the unadulterated essence of cacao, just as the Mayans enjoyed it centuries ago. With its bold, earthy notes and subtle hints of red fruit, it’s a full-bodied flavour experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Although our hot chocolate sachets are easy to prepare on the hob, for maximum creaminess and enjoyment, we recommend using a Velvetiser. So, if you’re feeling extra generous, why not add one to your gift package? This stylish machine creates silky smooth hot chocolate in moments. Choose from copper, white, or charcoal to match their kitchen aesthetic, and give them the gift of barista-quality drinks at home.

Fancy exploring more flavours? Take a peek at our full range of dark and vegan hot chocolate.

Dark chocolate gift pairings

Giving a gift to the ultimate foodie? Why not pair your dark chocolate pick with a little something extra to show them just how much you care?

For the coffee lover: Make mornings a little sweeter with our latte sachets. These easy-to-use sachets create a frothy, flavourful latte in no time, perfect for enjoying with a piece of dark chocolate for a truly decadent start to the day.

For the wine enthusiast: Ditch the usual wine and cheese pairing — elevate their evening with a bottle of full-bodied red and a selection of our finest dark chocolate. The tannins in the wine will dance with the bitterness of the chocolate, creating a fusion of flavour that’s as sophisticated as it is satisfying.

For the cheese connoisseur: Think beyond the traditional cheeseboard. Surprise them with a selection of artisanal cheeses, complemented by a box of high cocoa dark chocolate. The contrasting flavours and textures will create a truly memorable tasting experience, proving that opposites really do attract.

For the tea drinker: Is there anything better than tea and chocolate? The steam rising from a cup of English Breakfast, the aroma of rich dark chocolate — it’s a sensory experience that evokes comfort and contentment — a simple pleasure to savour on a quiet afternoon.

The perfect gift, every time

At Hotel Chocolat, we understand that every chocolate lover is unique. That’s why we’ve curated a collection of dark chocolate gifts that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday surprise, a special anniversary gift, or a small token to say ‘I’m sorry’, we have the perfect present to brighten their day. Explore our entire dark chocolate selection today and discover the joy of gifting dark chocolate.

By Rhian Wood