The local shop Monsoon Chocolate has won honors in the past — and also in our hearts — and now they have something brand-new to hold high.
Back in January of this year, we found out that the chocolate factory had been nominated for three different Good Food Awards categories: Snacks, Chocolate, and Confections. Last week, we were delighted to find out that they came out on top in the Chocolate category, winning with their Whiskey Del Bac Barrel Aged Dark Chocolate Bar — a mighty bar that uses a blend of cacao beans and is then aged in barrels used to make Whiskey Del Bac’s Dorado.
As a matter of fact, Monsoon Chocolate was the only Arizona-based business that won this time around.
“Our Whiskey Del Bac Barrel Aged Dark Chocolate Bar has always been a winner in our hearts from the start, but now it’s official,” Monsoon Chocolate shared. “We’re so honored to be recognized along with so many crafters that inspire us.”
The Good Food Awards recognize American food and beverage producers who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and culinary excellence. The judges had the chance to savor it and so do you, but you should jump on it swiftly before it’s sold out (for now).
“There’s a limited supply, so act fast! Don’t fret though — batch three is currently aging and will be ready by Father’s Day. We know that seems like a ways off, but it’ll be here before you know it.”
What’s new at Monsoon Chocolate?
A Look Behind the Scenes
Many of us have experienced the fictional chocolate factory tours on-screen while watching Willy Wonky and the Chocolate Factory for the 20th time, but Monsoon Chocolate is making it all a reality — minus all of the obstacles featured in the film. Beginning on Thursday, April 27, over at the current spot, 234 E. 22nd St., the factory tours have returned and have available spots throughout the weekend.
Just make sure you select a date and time ahead of time and you’re in for a treat. More information about registering for a tour can be found at eventbrite.com.
Bon Bons Galore!
At the moment, Monsoon Chocolate is running a “Buy-3-Get-1” deal on chocolate bars and snacks from now until Mother’s Day. They’re also working on something new and delicious for bon bon fans: quality and quantity.
“We’ve always had just three sizes: four, eight, and 15 pieces,” said Krantz. “This weekend, we’re adding 12, 24, 30, 48, and 60-piece boxes!”
Midtown Chocolate Shop & Cafe
Monsoon Chocolate has its chocolate shop on 22nd Street and soon (very soon) they’ll be opening a brand-new spot next to the Copenhagen furniture store at Fort Lowell and Dodge Boulevard. It’s right in the area of Tucson Hop Shop, Ciao Down, Hello Bicycle, and Le Rendez-vous — a soon-to-be perfect spot to grab a snack before or after visiting any of these other local businesses.
“The new location will become our flagship cafe/retail experience,” said Adam Krantz, owner of Monsoon Chocolate. “Once it opens, the cafe at La Buena will convert into a smaller retail-only factory store and gift shop.”
Stay tuned for more information on the new location at 3636 E. Fort Lowell Rd.
Monsoon Chocolate is located at 234 E. 22nd St. and the new location will be open in the near future at 3636 E. Fort Lowell Rd. For more information, visit monsoonchocolate.com.
Article written by:
Matt Sterner
More about MattAt a very young age, Matt Sterner was gifted with the artistic ability to masterfully roll a burrito to the highest of standards, but the wrapped medley of delicious innards wasn’t his first love. Matt’s first true love was a combination of reading, writing, and creating. He grew up reading comics, the ingredients list of his shampoo and conditioner bottles, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Scrabble dictionary — something he found useful when challenging his grandmother to a game.
He attended college at New Mexico State University and graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking. One of his favorite classes was screenwriting because he became responsible for the story’s birth before it came to life on-screen. After school, Matt took on numerous positions at a local television station in Tucson. From dealing out stories about heartbreak to producing “fluffier” content for a lifestyle broadcast, he learned what it takes to adapt to the many emotions the world of media can stir. Since 2017, Matt has dabbled in the culinary world of Tucson as well as San Diego, California from time to time.
If you’re in the mood for strange stories, head over to his pride and joy, wonkytimes.com. And in case you’re curious — yes, after all of this time, he still manages to roll a killer burrito.
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