Wonderland Pineapple Chews – Conrad the Contortionist, was the Supreme winner at this year’s Vegan Society Aotearoa fourth Vegan Chocolate Awards.
Judges said the winner was “a perfectly delicious and moreish twist on a classic.” Held on April 28 at Khu Khu Eatery in Ponsonby, Auckland, chocolate makers from all over New Zealand entered the Awards aiming to be winners in one of twelve categories.
“The judges had a difficult task ahead this year, as the competition became really fierce and there are a lot of incredible plant-based chocolates to be eaten in Aotearoa,” media spokesperson for the society, Claire Insley commented.
“Plant milk chocolates are gaining popularity, with an expanding range and improved quality. The awards celebrate various types of vegan chocolates, including bon bons, truffles, inclusions, and flavoured chocolates suitable for vegans and those allergic to dairy.
“Six experienced judges lent their palates to the taste test: welcoming all the way from Samoa, Floris Niu, who is a fourth generation Samoan cacao farmer, processor and chocolate-maker. She’s the founder of Ms Sunshine Organic Farms which operates Cacao Agritourism experiences on Upolu Island. Floris is co-creator of the “Koko Beans” brand of vegan chocolate snacks and the recent “Pacific Cacao and Chocolate 2022” show.
“Tracy Berno is a Professor in Food Studies at AUT. She has worked in food for over 30 years in roles ranging from academic to presenting cooking classes and demonstrations to catering. Tracy has a particular interest in the foods of the South Pacific and sustainably produced food products (including chocolate).
“With a rich background in Europe and the UK’s finest patisseries and chocolatiers, Thomas Wright is on a mission to redefine the essence of chocolate. His journey from prestigious Michelin-starred kitchens to launching Ao Cacao reflects his passion for ethically and sustainably grown cacao, combined with unique Pacific and New Zealand flavours for bean-to-bar experiences.
“Byron McLean is the founder and chocolatier of Cocoa Wilds—a new and viral chocolate boutique located on O’Connell Street in central Auckland. Leaving his corporate career in 2022, Byron poured his passion for people and learning into a whirlwind journey of growth, traveling, and taste-testing more than 300 types of chocolate worldwide.”
Trusted Palate
Finally, the Award stalwart Aaron Pucci has clocked up 25 years in the food and beverage manufacturing industry. His trusted palate has earned him numerous seats on judging panels for awards in New Zealand and Australia over 15 years.
As a dedicated chocolate consumer Aaron is always on the lookout for new brands and products ~ especially those that are breaking new ground. Aaron’s ‘food for thought’ is a desire for more manufacturers to take up the challenge of sustainable food operations and reducing their carbon footprint.
And comedian on the street, Tom Sainsbury stepped in to help choose the best chew in Wonderland.
The full list of winners can be found at https://www.vegansociety.org.nz/the-nz-vegan-chocolate-awards/
