Out & About #351 | Weekend in Barrie Day 1: Chelsea Chocolates

​If you've ever had the chance to make a 1.2 hour drive with no stops, I would highly suggest stretching beforehand. The lengthiest journey I've made would probably be the 2-hour trip from Richmond Hill back home during rush hour, amidst a collision and the peak of construction season. (And no, it was far from pleasant to shift centimetre by centimetre across Hwy 7 until traffic finally cleared.)
However, that pointless expedition did not involve the continual suppression of the acceleration pedal. This one did, and caused muscle spasms while at it.

​Complaints aside, we embarked on a journey to Barrie after I finally obtained my long-needed dose of McD's and 3 Guys. Having arrived just before rush hour but a tad too early for supper, there were few activities that could be engaged in after snacks were devoured and belongings were put in place.

​Exploring the nearby area led us to Chelsea Chocolates in Craighurst Belgian chocolate hand-crafted in every shape and form imaginable could be found in the cozy shop: from assorted fish-shaped truffles to milk chocolate wrenches, there were items of varying sizes for each and every occasion. A special Canada 150 series was also available as maple leaves sporting red-tinted cocoa butter on the surface.

​The owner was chatty and extremely friendly to all his clients, even offering us samples of their solid milk and dark chocolate as well as mini rounds of ice wine chocolate.
As the alcohol-infused treats gradually disintegrated in the hollows of our mouths, it immediately became clear why the tiny boxes was ranked as their top seller. The exterior was smooth, with a subtle sweetness and caressing bitter aftertaste, while the filling was rich, indulgent, and addicting. Crafted from ice wines of the Niagara region, the contents possessed indescribable body and a beatinest, luxurious depth that percolated into the atmosphere with utmost nonchalance. 

​We were informed that tours of their operations facilities, which was situated in the room just behind the cashier and merchandise shelves, were held every year around Thanksgiving. The statement prompted surprise on our behalf, as there is a definite tendency for us to venture up north for fall colours during early fall. Mental notes were etched to serve as reminders for the upcoming turkey-munching season.

​Almond bark, turtle-shaped pecan and caramel clusters, mint truffles, and a satisfying portion of ice wine truffles were placed into a paper bag with sharp edges before we headed on our way.

​Mosquito and flies seemed rampant with every step out of the car, so we settled to terminate the evening with a few rounds of billiards and a quiet dinner.