Indian Chocolate Brand Wins Historic Gold at Global Awards: A New Era for Indian Chocolates

Indian artisanal chocolate has reached a historic milestone as Paul and Mike, a pioneering farm-to-bar brand, clinched India’s first-ever Gold at the International Chocolate Awards 2024. Their innovative creation, Milk Chocolate Coated Salted Capers, earned this prestigious accolade in the ‘Milk Chocolate Enrobed Whole Fruit’ category. This landmark victory not only highlights the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship but also cements India’s position as a rising force in the global chocolate industry.

The award-winning chocolate, crafted over three years in collaboration with Ishka Farms, is a celebration of innovation and sustainability. Made with Lilliput capers, the smallest and most flavorful grade of capers, sourced from the arid lands of Tuticorin, the chocolate delivers an intricate flavor profile that balances umami, saltiness, and sweetness. Combined with premium cacao grown in the lush Western Ghats, this creation represents a perfect blend of India’s terroir and culinary artistry.

Farm-to-Bar Excellence and Global Recognition

Headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, Paul and Mike exemplify the farm-to-bar ethos, overseeing every stage of chocolate production. From growing and fermenting cacao on their own farms to collaborating with local farmers in Kerala and Andhra Pradesh, the brand ensures that sustainability and quality remain at the heart of their process. Their innovative approach has garnered international acclaim, with prior successes at the Great Taste Awards and the Academy of Chocolate Awards.

Reflecting on this achievement, Vikas Temani, Head of Business at Paul and Mike, emphasised the brand’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of chocolate-making while celebrating India’s rich resources. “This Gold win is not just a victory for us but a testament to the potential of Indian chocolates on the global stage,” he remarked.

This historic win follows the brand’s other groundbreaking achievements, including their Gin & Ginger Chocolate’s top-10 finish at the International Chocolate Awards 2023. Inspired by Latin American cocoa pioneers, Paul and Mike continue to innovate, crafting fine-flavored chocolates that showcase the best of Indian ingredients and sustainable practices. Their Gold win is a step forward for Indian chocolate’s journey in the global market.