Valrhona created memories for its 100th anniversary
For its 100th anniversary, the French chocolate maker threw a celebration in NYC that many industry members will remember for a while. The company, whose products are chosen by top chefs, hosted a fantastic cocktail and dance party with over 250 guests at the Hall des Lumières on February 27, 2023.
This downtown Manhattan landmark building set in a former bank now brings unforgettable immersive experiences. Its 150 video projectors reflected 30-foot-high images perfectly onto the rich architecture of the historic venue. The combination of the venue’s beauty and all the guests dressed to impress was the perfect representation of one of the most premium, if not the most premium chocolate company in the industry. The night was a great occasion for people to reconnect as this event was one of the first big parties since Covid-19.
The four North American Valrhona Corporate Pastry Chefs, along with two Valrhona Chefs who came from France to help, offered a spectacular 6-foot tall and 2.6-foot wide birthday cake. The cake was made with KOMUNTU 80%, the newest couverture from Valrhona specifically created to celebrate the century of the company. It is a couverture created by 100 members from the entire value chain (from cacao growers to chefs and employees), and we’re proud to give 100% of the proceeds directly back to our cocoa growers for the first year.
Benjamin Brito, Valrhona Inc. General Manager gave a speech celebrating Valrhona’s history, the company’s partners, introducing the company’s vision and the new brands it’s launching (Norohy Vanilla, Sosa, Adamance Fruit puree), in addition to its other chocolate brand: Republica Del Cacao.
The night’s success was also due to the amazing live band that kept the dance floor full of energy all night long.
The food served by one of Valrhona’s Cercle V (loyalty program) members, Great Performances, incorporated many iconic chocolate couvertures from the company, such as their Braised Guanaja 70% Chocolate Short Rib-Butternut Squash, Cranberry.