Chocolaterie des Princes Celebrates 50 Years of the Grêlon du Pilat

For 129 years, Chocolaterie des Princes has been a cornerstone of French chocolate tradition. This year, the maison stéphanoise, founded in 1897, celebrates the 50th anniversary of its signature creation, the Grêlon du Pilat – a chocolate that earned the title of “Best Chocolate in France” in 1976. The chocolatier blends a rich heritage with a vibrant future, continuing a legacy of artisanal chocolate making.

A Family Saga in Chocolate

Chocolaterie des Princes has been passed down through three families over the centuries, each stewardship lasting approximately 34 years. In 1999, Guillaume Duvert’s parents took the reins, and he grew up immersed in the world of cacao. Today, Guillaume Duvert embodies the new generation of Chocolat des Princes, carrying forward a passion for quality and tradition.

Saint-Étienne: France’s Chocolate Capital

Saint-Étienne has long been recognized as a hub for chocolate production in France, a reputation rooted in its industrial and railway history. The city’s early chocolatiers strategically located themselves near the train station to take advantage of coal and the efficient transport of raw materials.

The Grêlon du Pilat: Born from a Storm

The story of the Grêlon du Pilat is as unique as its taste. Antoine Calafell, inspired by a hailstorm while descending from the Pilat mountain, declared he would create a chocolate to capture the moment. The result was a distinctive confection, shaped like a pebble smoothed by the cold. The Grêlon du Pilat combines a milk chocolate ganache with fresh cream and hazelnuts, hand-rolled in powdered sugar, offering a soft, enveloping texture and a comforting flavor.

Preserving Tradition with Modern Innovation

While embracing modern practices, Chocolaterie des Princes remains committed to its artisanal roots. Centuries-old machines, such as the “boule à gaz” roaster, are still used to perfectly roast almonds and hazelnuts, contributing to the chocolatier’s unique signature. Since the 1990s, production has been based in La Tour-en-Jarez, where a factory store offers chocolates directly to consumers. The historical boutique has recently relocated to 11 place du Peuple.

Looking Ahead

Guillaume Duvert emphasizes the importance of savoring tradition while embracing the future. He has already begun to modernize the company’s communication and online sales platforms, aiming to showcase the expertise and craftsmanship behind Chocolat des Princes. Duvert as well intends to pursue the “Entreprise du patrimoine vivant” (Living Heritage Company) label, further solidifying the chocolatier’s commitment to preserving French artisanal traditions.