The Rise of Artisanal Chocolate in Ireland: Meet the Chocolatiers and Sommeliers Making Waves in the Industry

The world may be familiar with Irish whiskey and Guinness, but a new player has entered the scene – Irish chocolate. A recent surge in chocolate production has transformed Ireland into a sweet haven for chocolate lovers worldwide. From artisanal chocolatiers to large-scale producers, Ireland’s chocolate boom is a sweet success story that has captured the hearts of many. In this article, we will explore the history of chocolate production in Ireland, the key players in the industry, and the mouth-watering products that have put Irish chocolate on the international map.


The chocolate industry is thriving in Ireland, with a demand for high-quality, artisanal chocolates made with top-tier ingredients and creative fillings. Chocolatiers across the country are creating beautiful, hand-painted, edible works of art to cater to this demand. Gráinne Mullins, the founder of Grá Chocolates in Co Galway, has gained recognition for her entrepreneurial success, including her recent inclusion in Forbes’s 30 under 30 European list. Grá Chocolates boasts impressive revenue, and is available for purchase online and at Brown Thomas in Dublin and Galway. Ashford Castle and Adare Manor, two of Ireland’s five-star hotels, have also responded to the demand for high-quality chocolates by establishing chocolate and patisserie ventures within their grounds. Paula Stakelum, the global director of chocolate and patisserie for the Red Carnation hotel collection, worked with Valrhona to develop two unique chocolate blends for Ashford Castle. Adare Manor is creating a stand-alone chocolate factory, shop and patisserie overseen by Oliver Stievenard, the hotel’s new executive pastry chef. Chocolate sommelier Shobitha Ramadasa also offers chocolate-tasting courses to those interested in discovering the nuances of fine chocolate. The article also highlights four Irish chocolatiers to watch: Temptation Chocolates, Hazel Mountain Chocolate, Bon Chocolatiers, and Tara Gartlan Chocolate.


In conclusion, the Irish chocolate industry has flourished in recent years, with talented chocolatiers and dedicated farmers working hard to create some of the finest chocolate products in the world. Their efforts have paid off, as Ireland has become a popular destination for chocolate lovers and consumers worldwide. As we look to the future, it’s clear that the Irish chocolate boom is here to stay, and we can expect many more delicious innovations to come from this growing industry. So, see for yourself the deliciousness of Irish chocolate and taste the success story for yourself.