verē chocolates (pronounced “very”) have quietly made there way to Buffalo from NYC. Like most boutique chocolate, the packaging is impeccable and the flavor unique. Unlike most boutique chocolate, the product is gluten free and vegan friendly.
Often 75% cocoa is even a little dark for me, but the complexity of this simple confection was interesting and not at all bitter. Sweetened with just a bit of crystallized fructose, the palate is free to experience the full, naked flavor of chocolate. The texture is equally interesting; as soon as the indifferent square warms in your mouth it transforms into a velvety puddle, leaving your tongue awash with soft, smoky chocolate.
These little sweeties come two to a pack, wrapped carefully in small glassine envelopes. The sliding matchbox-style container is exquisitely designed, both architecturally and graphically.
verē also offers brownies, truffles and clusters, many of which showcase inventive ingredients like pink peppercorns, tamari, and Earl Grey tea. For those more inclined toward the traditional, almonds, crispy rice and espresso beans are also featured.
In Buffalo a small selection of verē products can be found at Washington Market and Chateau Buffalo. Keep in mind that a good glass of Cabernet or Zinfandel would be the perfect accompaniment to your verē chocolate experience.
Washington Market, 461 Ellicott, 14203, 362.3181, call for hours
Chateau Buffalo, 209 Hertel, 14207, 873.0074, call for hours
Photo by Christa Glennie Seychew