Experience Québec
Gourmet’s Pleasures
How sweet it is!
Supreme treat, exquisite pleasure... chocolate is the master to whom our tongues would willingly be eternal slaves. In bars, bite-sized pieces or fondue, all of its flavours and nuances can be appreciated. Oscar Wilde said he could resist everything except temptation. How about you?
Chocolate’s roots go back 4,000 years. Legend has it that the Aztec god Quetzalcoatl offered his people the recipe for a cocoa drink, xocolatl, that had marvellous virtues. It’s not surprising, then, that over the centuries chocolate has been called the "food of the gods." Long used as currency, an aphrodisiac, and a stimulant, chocolate soon took advantage of colonial expansion to conquer the hearts - and the tummies - of settlers in New France, and Quebecers especially.European flavours
Five minutes from the old quarter of Quebec City, the Choco-musée Érico will immerse you in the long history of the transformation of cocoa. You will see different treats prepared right before your eyes with Belgian or French chocolate: fudge, bars, bark and filled bonbons. It’s a mouth-watering experience!Fresh ideas for hot days
Cross the river and stop at Chocolats Favoris(32, Bégin, Lévis• 418 838-4822) in Vieux-Lévis. Inspired by European traditions, this chocolate maker whips up superb truffles as well as sherbets and ices to refresh the palate. Head further inland and you’ll discover more experts in the art of blending flavours and, specifically, the art of pralines, at Confiseries Yoma. In a unique ambience where the aroma of chocolate reigns, you will be able to watch the processes of blending, kneading, grinding and "conching," required to produce chocolate.Three finds in Montérégie
What better way to find inspiration than through local products? That’s the approach taken by Chocolaterie Ody, specialists in fruit and liqueur flavours. La Cabosse d’Or and Confiserie Bromont (679, rue Shefford, Bromont • 450 534-3893 • www.bromont.com/chocolat) both established in 1986, will suit the tastes of those who love European chocolates. The latter also has a museum and a coffee shop, all of which come together to create a swirl of aromas which, thanks to delicious chocolate, are nothing less than heavenly!| Feeling peckish? |
| Don’t keep your stomach waiting! All of these companies offer commented tours topped off by a range of tastings. |
Guillaume Rivard
Photos: Choco-Musée Érico, no 5: Confiseries Yoma
2008-04-16
