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Chocolate of Reims: traditions of monastic monks


 

Reims, in the heart of Champagne country, is also home to another refined delicacy: chocolate – specifically, chocolate crafted with monastic traditions. Among the treasures of the region, for example, is the chocolate of Chocolaterie Abbaye d’Igny, blending history, spirituality, and craftsmanship.

 

The origins of monastic chocolate-making in Reims are deeply tied to the traditions of the Abbaye d’Igny, a Trappist monastery located near the city. The abbey’s roots go back to the 12th century, but its legacy as a chocolate-making center began in the 20th century. The Trappist nuns, known for their self-sufficient and contemplative lifestyle, began producing chocolate as a means of sustaining their abbey. The Chocolaterie Abbaye d’Igny became famous for its pralines, truffles, and other artisanal chocolate creations, which were handcrafted using traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients. Each piece reflects the monks' and nuns' meticulous care and commitment to excellence.

 

What makes Abbaye d’Igny Chocolate special to me are its authentic monastic craftmanship, the use of local and natural ingredients, and its sustainability. Unlike mass-produced chocolate, the abbey’s chocolate is made in small batches using methods passed down through generations. The focus is on purity, flavor, and preserving the spiritual heritage of the monastic traditions. Every chocolate made at the abbey supports the maintenance of the monastery and its charitable works.

 

The chocolaterie sources its cocoa beans from sustainable growers and incorporates ingredients from the surrounding Champagne region, such as honey, almonds, and hazelnuts. The Abbaye d’Igny is particularly famous for its “Bouchons de Chocolat” (“Chocolate Caps”) – small chocolate treats shaped like Champagne corks, a nod to the region's sparkling wine heritage. 

 

Reims, with its deep-rooted gastronomic culture, is also home to other chocolate artisans who draw inspiration from the city’s history. The combination of Champagne, chocolate, and biscuits like the iconic “Biscuit Rose de Reims” (“Pink Biscuit of Reims”), attract locals and visitors alike.













MARTINA NICOLLS

MartinaNicollsWebsite  I  Rainy Day Healing  I  Martinasblogs  I  Publications  I  Facebook  I  Paris Website  I  Paris blogs  I  Animal Website  I  Flower Website I Global Gentlemanliness

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Martina Nicolls is an Australian author and international human rights-based consultant in education, healing and wellbeing, peace and stabilization, and foreign aid audits and evaluations. She lives in Paris.

 

 

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