Have a mindful chocolate Valentine’s Day

Can you figure the link between the following four people and the following four compounds… and an event happening in a couple of weeks?

Historical figures:

• Montezuma
• Casanova
• Charles II
• the Marquis de Sade

Chemical compounds:

• Theobromine
• Phenethylamine (PEA)
• Tryptophan
• Quercetin

The answer is that all four of these individuals strongly believed that chocolate was an aphrodisiac (see here) and that these four compounds are present in chocolate and reputed to be aphrodisiacs.

Since chocolate was first observed by the Conquistadors, it’s been associated with sexual prowess. Montezuma apparently consumed the froth of 50 cups of chocolate before retiring to his harem. Not to be out done, for Casanova, chocolate was the “very elixir of love” and the notorious Marquis de Sade celebrated its potency, begging for it to be brought to his boudoir. Charles II was more besotted with chocolate than his various mistresses (and spent a lot more on his chocolate than them). For more see here.

Despite this history and the often extraordinary claims of fans, inventors and marketers, we’ve yet to discover any magical way to “arouse animal passions” via chocolate (or any other substance). And even if there are trace elements of quercetin in chocolate, and even though quercitin is a “natural” viagra, unfortunately it doesn’t cross the blood brain barrier when you savour some craft chocolate. For more (including why chocolate is a lousy valentine present for your dog) see here.

However, chocolate can be deeply romantic. It’s a wonderful way to show that you’ve really thought through your gift. Plus, craft chocolate is fantastic fun to share; to compare flavour notes and explore maker and farmer stories. So take a look at our Valentine’s themed bars, sharing boards, truffles and chocolate pairings. They’ll provide a great set of stories to share with your Valentine. For example, pick a bar to hint at a holiday location you’d like to go to or want to remember. Showcase some artwork or colours. And explore the flavour waves of a few bars. Craft chocolate is a great way to bond, relax and luxuriate – and it shows that you’ve more imagination than “just” reaching for flowers, fancy bathsoaps, or wine!

For even more bonus points, impress your partner with your extensive knowledge of the origins to the day, why it’s linked to cold water and whipping, real actions of St Valentine (there were three of them …) and all sorts of historical peculiarities. Plus we’ve assembled some of the more interesting videos to explore the history of using chocolate and sex in advertising here.

So this Valentine’s, spin a spell with a story – explore the background of the beans, farmers, crafting and makers, discuss their flavour waves and relax; it’s an unbeatable way to sync with your Valentine. Choose a healthy, sustainable and ethical way to celebrate the day.