Chocolate is a very particular treat, and to help you enjoy it at its best, here are a few tips:

If you choose to store your chocolate in the refrigerator remember that chocolate stored in the refrigerator will “sweat” – this means that a layer of moisture will form on the surface of the chocolate, and when cooled, stickiness will result. The temperature in a refrigerator is too low and humidity too high for ideal chocolate storage we recommend find a cool, dry place in your home such as a cupboard or pantry to keep chocolate. If it is just too hot and you must rely on your refrigerator to avoid a total meltdown of your chocolate, be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a spell before eating to get that fabulous melt-in-your-mouth sensation that chocolate offers. The stickiness will not affect the flavor of your chocolate, but will alter the mouth feel slightly. When storing chocolate it is also important to remember that chocolate absorbs any nearby smells or flavors which can negatively affect its taste. To avoid this wrap chocolate tightly with multiple layers of saran wrap and avoid storing it among things with strong odors.

Chocolate Rounds and other solid chocolates, if stored properly, can be kept for a few months with little degradation of taste and texture. Chocolate Truffles, due to their fresh cream content, should be eaten within 7-10 days of purchase. Truffles from The Chocolate Fetish contain no preservatives, and therefore, careful attention should be paid to the shelf life and storage conditions.

Chocolate that is allowed to get warm will begin to melt, thus allowing the cocoa butter to rise to the surface, creating “bloom”. Chocolate bloom will be noted as white streaks or dots on the surface of the chocolate. Chocolate bloom does not affect the taste of the chocolate, but will alter the texture somewhat if not re-tempered.