I haven't mentioned our little chocolate (make that Chockolate) brand in a while. A major oversight, as it is such a part of our everyday lives. Being that we are so close to Valentine's Day, let me right that wrong. For those who may not know, Komforte Chockolates was a brand that began in Peter's head a few years ago and became a reality after many many meetings, late nights, taste tests (many), homemade kitchen mixtures and concoctions, and trained professionals who finally got it right for us. Many stumbles (and small triumphs) later, these bars are still selling. Peter and our partners are very grateful for that. These bars are our little babies.
Last summer, two new babies/flavors were added to the mix, taking our original assortment from three to five. (Five!) I can't believe I've never mentioned these before now, but I guess that's how it is when days are heads down in our work.
We need to remember to look up.
The original flavors of "Ramen Noodle" (dreamt up by my Ramen noodle-lovin' daughter Emma when she was 11), "French Toast", and "Tortilla, Lime & Salt" all continue to do very well. People love the quirkiness of these mixtures (we have heard tales of the secret stashes kept by devotees), and are pleasantly surprised when they bite into a bar and realize that they actually are not only quirky, they taste good!
However, we were getting occasional feedback that folks were a little disappointed at the lack of the ramen noodle flavor packet powder in the ramen noodle bar. Yea, that's right, they wanted the chicken flavor packet in with the ramen and the chocolate.
I know, right??
Well, we had to consider. Did we feel this was necessary to develop? To put energy into creating this "new" flavor?
Heck yea! Power to the people!!! After all, it fits nicely into our "Savory Combinations that are Easy to Love" philosophy.
But, geez, it sounded kinda gross.
After a few taste tests, "Savory Ramen" was sent out into the world to earn its wings. Before you scowl (as I did) at the thought, let me tell you. It is good. I like it better than the original Ramen Noodle flavor. I can't believe I just said that. But tasting is believing. It is my favorite of all the five!
Our second new flavor developed last summer was "Apple Pie & Graham". This one we always knew was coming, it was just a matter of getting it right, which took a while. But after many taste tests (so many sacrifices we make!), we nailed it. This flavor is the only one with white chocolate added, an addition that makes it work.
So there you have it. Our ever expanding family of chocolates. If you'd ever told Peter and I that we would now be in the chocolate business ten years ago, we would have looked at you blankly and only asked "Why?" But somehow, here we are and we are very proud indeed.
I am giving away 1 set of all 5 Komforte Chockolate flavors to one person who comments on this post. Unfortunately, the winner won't get these in time for Valentine's Day, but what day isn't made a little better with chocolate?? Just leave a comment and I'll draw a name on Sunday night.
In the meantime, please accept our sincerest thanks for everyone who has become our friend on facebook, tweeted about us, finding our bars for sale in their local coffee shop or market, or has otherwise helped us spread the word. We have happily shipped our bars all over the country (our store locator list grows every day), and we are so excited to continue expanding.
The world needs things like quirky chocolate bars.
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Tutorial on the granny circles coming next week!
Have a great weekend!
B
Comments closed and winner chosen, thank you!!
