Vosges I.G.P. Piemonte Hazelnut Praline Bonbons

This time of year calls for a little decadence, a little luxury.  And it’s hard to find more decadence and luxury in a single bite than Vosges’ tastefully over-the-top I.G.P. Piemonte Hazelnut Praline  bonbons. So what’s an I.G.P. Piemonte hazelnut, you may ask? Well, just as cognac must be from the Cognac region of France, these hazelnuts have Indicazione Geografica Protetta (Protected Geographic Condition) certification. They’re from the town of Alba in Piemonte, a region known for its wines, its truffles… and its hazelnuts, which naturally ripen and fall to the ground, to be harvested and sun-dried before making their way to your bonbon. 

 The only thing that could make these delectable bonbons even more luxurious would be candied violets — and that’s why Vosges has added them. Violet blossoms, grown and harvested in France, are hand-torn, coated in turbinado sugar, dried and crushed, adding a subtle floral note to each nutty bonbon and marrying brilliantly with the hazelnuts. The cocoa nibs on which you’ll also be nibbling feature pure cocoa butter and cocoa powder. Originating from the world’s highest quality cacao beans, each nib was fermented, dried and processed for a specific flavor profile. Their slightly bitter taste is complemented by the sweetness of the milk chocolate and hazelnuts. For an even greater treat for the taste buds, try pairing your bonbons with a robust goat cheese. It doesn’t get much better.