I’m not overly particular when it comes to chocolate (except if it has nuts in it), but there are definitely a few gourmet companies that stand out above the rest.  One of them is The Chocolate Nation.  Seriously…just take a peek at their site.  You will have a hard time leaving it! What’s interesting about the boutique is that it features an array of “artisanal chocolates crafted in the US.”  In other words, you’ll find chocolate from a variety of premier chocolatiers (as opposed to just one).  You may recognize names like Oliver Kita and Valerie Confections. It’s nice to have such a diverse selection of gourmet companies to choose from, in one location.

The Chocolate Nation features 14 chocolatiers from eight different states and only offers the best from across the country.  Besides the sheer beauty and taste you’ll find at The Chocolate Nation, the founder also offers personal assistance in creating and customizing gifts.

I didn’t sample chocolates from all fourteen companies (not to say that I wouldn’t if given the opportunity…hehe!) but I did sample products from Oliver Kita and Pete’s Gourmet Confections.  I absolutely adore dark chocolate, so I have to admit that my FAVORITE sampling was from the Organic Animal Crackers by Oliver Kita.  They’re dipped in 70% organic dark chocolate and so incredibly delicious.  Sometimes I find dark chocolate a bit bitter.  That was definitely not the case with the Organic Animal Crackers.  I had to hide them so my husband wouldn’t eat them all! On the site they’re actually sold in combination with the Rescue Remedy Organic Hot Cocoa. I drink a lot of hot chocolate (especially these days when I have to limit my coffee intake).  This is by far one of the richest I’ve tasted (in a good way).  I don’t care for watered-down hot chocolate. I prefer creamy and rich, made with milk.  All you really need for perfection is a dollop of whipped cream!

I also had an opportunity to try a few products from Pete’s Gourmet Confections.  I have to admit that it’s rare for me to eat marshmallows.  It’s not that I don’t like them, it’s that I’d rather spend my calories on chocolate!  I had an opportunity to try the Vanilla Marshmallows which were good.  They’re all natural which means you won’t find things like high fructose corn syrup or preservatives.  The other product I tried was the Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Rods.  Mint and chocolate are perhaps one of my favorite combinations. They’re dipped in dark chocolate (my favorite!) and make great stirring sticks for hot chocolate.

If you’re looking for a gourmet chocolate gift that’s presented well and tastes superb, check out The Chocolate Nation.

For more fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas, visit The Mommy-Files

Disclosure: I did not receive compensation for this review. I did receive a product, courtesy of the company in order to facilitate my review.