Goodnow Farms’ Special Reserve Putnam Rye Whiskey Bar is a bold fusion of fine Esmeraldas cacao and Boston Harbor Distillery's Putnam Rye Whiskey. Made with 55 bottles of rye and cacao nibs steeped for days, this bar captures the warm, spicy complexity of whiskey balanced by the fruity depth of single-origin Ecuadorian chocolate. Finished with freshly pressed cocoa butter from the same beans, it delivers a uniquely smooth, rich, and unforgettable flavor experience.
The Best Chocolate in The World 2023

In the enchanting Tuscan countryside, the stage was set for the 2023 International Chocolate Awards World Final, a celebration of the finest chocolates worldwide. Hosted at the opulent Villa Castelletti near Florence, Italy, this event drew artisans and connoisseurs from across the globe, transcending borders to honor the zenith of chocolate craftsmanship.
Participants, both physically present and online, hailed from diverse corners of the world, including Taiwan, Japan, the USA, Denmark, Czech Republic, Hungary, Germany, and Italy. Noteworthy attendees, like co-founder Maricel Presilla from New Jersey, joined passionate entrants who embodied the pinnacle of the global craft chocolate industry.
Despite minor technical hiccups, the ceremony unfolded seamlessly, evoking an atmosphere teeming with excitement and heartfelt emotions. Tears of elation streamed down the faces of winners as they were bestowed the prestigious World Final Gold prize, a true testament to their exceptional contributions to the craft chocolate realm.
Within Villa Castelletti's ceremony room, vibrant backdrops adorned with national and regional representations served as picturesque settings. Attendees joyously immortalized the moment, capturing selfies with their well-deserved certificates.
The announcement of winners was graced by co-founders Monica Meschini and Maricel Presilla, alongside esteemed Grand Jury members Michaela Schupp and George Gensler.
Broadcasted live on their Facebook page, the event was accessible for all to witness. The judging panel, comprising experts from various corners of the world and international Grand Jury members, evaluated entries in a hybrid format—part in-person in Florence and part remotely in October 2023.
Anonymity characterized the judging process, culminating in the Grand Jury's private voting session to award Golds, Silvers, and Bronzes as per their rules. The ceremony celebrated winners walking away with a remarkable array of accolades, with some individuals and brands claiming 10-15 awards, a testament to their unwavering dedication to quality craftsmanship.
Noteworthy achievers of the evening included Goodnow Farms from the USA with 12 prizes, Vigdis Rosenkilde from Norway with 6 prizes and Meybol Cacao from Germany with 4 prizes. Italy's dominance in nut-based categories was evident through makers like Guido Castagna, Depetris Riccardo, and the Gardini brothers. Women chocolatiers also shone brightly, with Mybol Cacao, Monia Achille, Francesca Caon, and Stefania Massera securing numerous accolades for their innovative creations.
Queenie from Q Sweet (Taiwan) expressed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing her commitment to championing women in the chocolate industry and inspiring more female involvement in chocolate-making.
The competition witnessed an unprecedented level of excellence, with all overall winners scoring above 90 points. The highest accolade, a score of 94.4, was awarded to Guido Castagna (Italy) for his legendary 'Giuinott,' a traditional Italian gianduiotto crafted meticulously with the finest hazelnuts from Piedmont and dark chocolate.
Top Honors: Best in Competition
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Plain/Origin Dark Chocolate Bar: Vigdis Rosenkilde from Norway secured the Gold with their 70% Kiteni bar, achieving a remarkable score of 91.6. This bar was crafted using cacao sourced by Vigdis via Theobroma Inversiones S.A.C (Cacaosuyo).
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Micro-batch Milk Chocolate Bar: Chaleur B Chocolat of Canada earned the Gold for their Milk 51%, scoring 90.6.
The Full List Of World's Best Chocolate 2023
80 AND ABOVE INDICATES FINE CHOCOLATE QUALITY AND SCORES ABOVE 90 SUGGEST EXTRAORDINARY QUALITY AND CRAFT.
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Special Reserve, Putnam Rye Whiskey 77% (Score 92.0)
- Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - The World's Best Dark Chocolate 2023 - Kiteni 70% (Score 91.6)
- Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - Dark Chocolate - Echarate 80% (Score 90.8)
- Chaleur B Chocolat (Canada) - The World's Best Milk Chocolate 2023 - Milk 51% (Score 90.6)
- Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - Dark Chocolate - Piura With Cacao Nibs 70% (Score 90.2)
- Meybol Cacao (Germany) - Dark Chocolate - Vraem 68% (Score 90.1)
- McGuire Chocolate (Canada) - Dark Chocolate - Santa Maria 70% (Score 89.7)
- Paccari Chocolate (Ecuador) - Sugar-free Dark Chocolate - Raw 101% (Score 89.7)
- Vigdis Rosenkilde - Dark Chocolate - Santa Ana 70% (Score 89.2)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Special Reserve, Lawley's Rum (Score 89.2)
- Paccari Chocolate (Ecuador) - Dark Chocolate - Lemon Verbena 60% (Score 89.0)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - El Carmen With Coffe Crunch 69% (Score 88.8)
- Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - Milk Chocolate - Dark Milk 60% (Score 88.6)
- Meybol Cacao (Germany) - Dark Chocolate - Chuncho Collection N5 (Score 88.3)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Boyaca, 73 (Score 88.1)
- Feliu Chocolate (Mexico) - Dark Chocolate - Soconusco 71% (Score 88.0)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Asochivite with Maple Sugar (Score 87.9)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Asochivite 77% (Score 87.8)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Pure Passion Fruit 70% (Score 87.8)
- McGuire Chocolate (Canada) - Milk Chocolate - Pumpkin Spice Milk (Score 87.8)
- Kasama Chocolate (Canada) - Dark Chocolate - Single Malt 70% (Score 87.7)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Almendra Blanca 77% (Score 87.7)
- Chaleur B Chocolat (Canada) - White Chocolate - Vegan White (Score 87.3)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Vegan Milk Chocolate - Oat Milk (Score 87.3)
- Kasama Chocolate (Canada) - White Chocolate - Raspberry White (Score 87.3)
- Paccari (Ecuador) - Dark Chocolate - Rica Rica 60% (Score 87.1)
- Sleep Walk Chocolateria (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Blanco Jaguar 70% (Score 87.0)
- SLOK Chocolate (Hong Kong) - Dark Chocolate - Aged With Hops 72% (Score 86.7)
- Argencove Chocolate (Nicaragua) - Dark Chocolate - Mombacho 70% (Score 86.6)
- Paccari Chocolate (Ecuador) - Dark Chocolate - Passion Fruit 60% (Score 86.6)
- Feliu Chocolate (Mexico) - Sugar-free Dark Chocolate - Soconusco 100% (Score 86.5)
- Kasama Chocolate (Canada) - White Chocolate - Blackberry White (Score 86.4)
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Brown Butter 70% (Score 86.2)
- Paccari Chocolate (Ecuador) - Dark Chocolate - Lemongrass 60% (Score 86.2)
- Feliu Chocolate (Mexico) - Dark Chocolate - Pitaya De Mayo (Cactus Fruit) 58% (Score 86.1)
- SLOK Chocolate (Hong Kong) - Milk Chocolate - Capuassu Dark Milk 60% (Score 86.0)
- Feliu Chocolate (Mexico) - Milk Chocolate - Vanilla Milk 52% (Score 86.0)
Top 10 of the World's Best Chocolate 2023
1.Goodnow Farms (USA) - Special Reserve, Putnam Rye Whiskey 77% (Score 92.0)

2. Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - Kiteni 70% (Score 91.6)
A Rare and Aromatic Chocolate Experience. Crafted from the rare and highly aromatic Chuncho cocoa of Peru’s Kiteni district, Rosenkilde’s Chuncho bar captures the natural floral and fruity notes unique to this exceptional variety—most notably, a distinct rose-like essence found only in select strains. Meticulously processed to preserve its delicate character, this chocolate offers a refined and expressive flavor journey. Presented in textured recycled paper, the packaging invites you to explore the story behind each bar, from bean to bliss.

3. Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - Echarate 80% (Score 90.8)
Vigdis' Chuncho Dark Chocolate – A Taste of the Upper Amazon. Made from rare Chuncho cacao grown in the misty mountains along Peru’s Urubamba River, this bar offers a window into one of the world’s most prized cocoa origins. With each bite, discover a natural complexity—floral, fruity, and deeply rich—all developed through precise, thoughtful processing. This dairy-free dark chocolate melts smoothly on the tongue, revealing the full character of Chuncho's unique flavor profile. Wrapped in textured recycled paper, the packaging reflects the bar’s journey from rainforest to craft. Experience the wild beauty of the Amazon in one unforgettable bar.

4. Chaleur B Chocolat (Canada) - Milk 51% (Score 90.6)
World’s Best Milk Chocolate – Gold Winner, International Chocolate Awards 2023. Awarded Gold in 2023, this 51% milk chocolate is a masterful blend of fine cocoa beans, skimmed milk, real vanilla pods, and just the right touch of sweetness. Smooth, rich, and comforting, it’s a refined take on a classic—crafted to evoke the nostalgic joy of childhood, while appealing to the tastes of true chocolate lovers. A timeless treat, elevated.

5. Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - Piura With Cacao Nibs 70% (Score 90.2)
World’s Best Dark Chocolate – Silver Winner, International Chocolate Awards 2023. Crafted from rare Piura Criollo cocoa, this award-winning bar is a celebration of nature’s complexity. With a high proportion of white cocoa beans, Piura Criollo is known for its delicate and nuanced flavor profile—featuring natural notes of citrus, dried fruit, caramel, and nuts that unfold with every bite. Sourced directly from farmer Elias Cruz in northern Peru, this chocolate reflects meticulous craftsmanship and ethical sourcing. The addition of crunchy cocoa nibs enhances the experience, offering texture without compromising the purity of the flavor. Wrapped in textured recycled paper, the packaging reflects the thoughtful journey from cocoa fruit to finished bar—a true expression of fine chocolate at its best.

6. Meybol Cacao (Germany) - Vraem 68% (Score 90.1)
Silver Winner – International Chocolate Awards 2023 (European Plain / Origin Dark Chocolate). This handcrafted, dairy-free bean-to-bar chocolate showcases the purity and depth of 68% fine flavor cocoa from Peru’s VRAEM region, where cacao is grown naturally and sustainably. With its clean, balanced profile and smooth texture, this bar lets the true character of the origin shine—rich, earthy, and subtly fruity. A standout in its category, it’s a celebration of single origin excellence and artisanal craftsmanship.

7. McGuire Chocolate (Canada) - Santa Maria 70% (Score 89.7)
One of the World’s Finest Dark Chocolates. McGuire Chocolate’s Santa Maria 70% is a dark chocolate crafted for true connoisseurs. Made with carefully selected cacao and minimal ingredients, this bar delivers a harmonious balance of sweet dried fruit and delicate nutty notes, all wrapped in a smooth, satisfying finish. Rich, refined, and deeply flavorful, it’s a standout expression of pure, high-quality chocolate—simple,

8. Paccari Chocolate (Ecuador) - Raw 101% (Score 89.7)
Pacari Raw 101% – A Bold, Unroasted Chocolate Experience. Pacari’s Raw 101% is a rare creation for the true chocolate purist. Made entirely from unroasted Ecuadorian cacao, it contains no sugar, allowing the natural complexity of the beans to shine. The extra 1% comes from a sprinkle of raw cacao nibs, adding texture and an intense burst of flavor to every bite. Deep, earthy, and unapologetically bold, this bar is a celebration of pure, unadulterated cacao at its most powerful.

9. Vigdis Rosenkilde - Dark Chocolate - Santa Ana 70% (Score 89.2)
Vigdis Santa Ana Dark Chocolate – A Celebration of Rare Peruvian Cacao. With natural notes of bearberry, pineapple, and walnut, this chocolate offers a bright and layered flavor profile born entirely from the cocoa itself—no additives, just meticulous craftsmanship at every step. Sourced from the Cooperativa Alto Urubamba along Peru’s Urubamba River, the cacao is cultivated by over 100 dedicated farmers focused on sustainability and quality through hands-on education and careful plantation preparation. When Vigdis discovered this exceptional batch, it sparked instant joy—and one taste will tell you why. Wrapped in textured recycled paper, each bar invites you into the rich story of cacao, from its origin to your palate.

10. Goodnow Farms (USA) - Dark Chocolate - Special Reserve, Lawley's Rum (Score 89.2)
Goodnow Farms x Lawley’s Dark Rum – A Richly Infused Chocolate Collaboration. Following the celebrated success of their whiskey-infused bar, Goodnow Farms teams up once again with Boston Harbor Distillery—this time spotlighting the deep, molasses-rich character of Lawley’s Dark Rum. Made with award-winning Esmeraldas cacao from Ecuador, the nibs are soaked in over 50 bottles of dark rum, then dried and stone-ground with freshly pressed single-origin cocoa butter, yielding an exceptionally smooth, flavor-packed bar. The result is a decadent blend of caramel, molasses, and berry jam notes, capturing the essence of fine rum and fine chocolate in every bite. A true meeting of Massachusetts craftsmanship and Ecuadorian terroir.

SHOP WORLD'S Best Chocolate 2023
World's Top Chocolate Brands 2023
- Vigdis Rosenkilde (Norway) - Average Score 90.1
- Meybol Cacao (Germany) - Average Score 89.2
- Chaleur B Chocolate (Canada) - Average Score 89.0
- McGuire Chocolate (Canada) - Average Score 88.8
- Paccari Chocolate (Ecuador) - Average Score 87.7
- Goodnow Farms (USA) - Average Score 87.3
- Kasama Chocolate (Canada) - Average Score 87.1
- Sleep Walk Chocolateria (USA) - Average Score 87.0
- Feliu Chocolate (Mexico) - Average Score 86.7
- Argencove Chocolate (Nicaragua) - Average Score 86.6
- SLOK Chocolate (Hong Kong) - Average Score 86.4)