“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.”—Charles M. Schulz
This Valentine’s Day, let your love take flight!
We looked high into the skies to inspire our Valentine’s Day offerings for 2025. We were entranced by the flight of birds, their wingspan, feathers, and songs. We marveled at their ability to travel as a flock, succeed solo, find one another to gain strength and return to the places they’ve been before transformed. We wondered at their marvelous colors, powers of persuasion, and talent for finding their perfect match.
For many months, our creative team sent each other photos of birds, one more chic than the next, each with dazzling color combinations that were a feast for the eyes. Which birds would we like to be if we could have such glorious coats and plumes? How are they so intelligent and distinct? Which would best exemplify the truffles we chose for this year’s collection?
This deep dive into the aviary world gave us so many touchpoints to design the packaging, the idea to craft large-scale wings from feathers for our photoshoots, gathering little-known facts about birds, and guidance for choosing ingredients from our vault of parfums.
We were beholden to the spirits of the birds and the notion that love, in any form, puts the air beneath our wings that allows us to soar.
Birds have long been associated with Valentine’s Day. In medieval Europe, it was commonly believed that birds chose their mates on February 14. This idea likely stemmed from observations of increased bird activity during the early spring season, as many birds begin courting and pairing up around this time.
In Victorian times, exchanging Valentine's cards illustrated with doves, swans, or other birds became a popular tradition. In English folklore, the type of bird a woman saw on Valentine’s Day was believed to predict the kind of man she would marry.
Bird songs have long been romanticized as nature's love songs, resonating with the themes of Valentine’s Day. Their melodies were seen as expressions of courtship and joy.
There is no shortage of our superior-sourced ingredients within the collections. Here are just a few of our favorites and their benefits.
Cherry—Cherries are often associated with Valentine’s Day due to their deep red color, heart-like shape, and sweet, indulgent flavor, which symbolize love and passion. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, cherries also promote heart health and improve sleep quality, making them a perfect romantic and health-conscious treat.
Piemonte Pistachios—Pistachios, often called the "lover's nut" in ancient cultures, are associated with Valentine’s Day for their rich, luxurious flavor and green hue, symbolizing renewal and harmony in love. We chose Piemonte pistachios as they are truly the best in the world. They are one of our favorite luxurious indulgences.
Bananas—Bananas, with their creamy sweetness, are rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and natural sugars. They boost energy, support heart health, and promote a cheerful mood, enhancing the spirit of love and connection.
Blackberry- Blackberries, with their deep purple hue and rich, juicy sweetness, are often associated with Valentine’s Day as a symbol of deep passion and romance.
Blood Orange- Blood oranges, with their vibrant red flesh and sweet, tangy flavor, are associated with Valentine’s Day as a symbol of the vibrant intensity of love. Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and anthocyanins, they support immune health, reduce inflammation, and promote glowing skin.
Koval Bourbon—This sophisticated bourbon, with its smooth yet robust character, is a superb addition to Valentine’s Day chocolates (and libations!). Its warmth and depth are perfect for sharing a special toast with loved ones. Its taste profile features notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of a kick of spices.
We love making cocktails with Koval Bourbon as much as we enjoy including it in our chocolates. This recipe will be a smash with those you love on Valentine’s Day.
Bourbon and Cherry Smash Recipe
2 oz (60 ml) Koval bourbon (or your favorite!)
1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup (or to taste)
1 oz (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
4-5 fresh cherries (pitted) or 1 oz cherry juice
2-3 dashes Angostura bitters (optional)
Ice cubes
Soda water
Garnish: a fresh cherry, lemon peel, or mint sprig
Muddle the cherries: Combine the fresh cherries and simple syrup in a shaker. Gently muddle to release the juices.
Add the rest: Add bourbon, lemon juice, and bitters (if using) to the shaker. Fill with ice.
Shake it up: Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to mix and chill.
Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Top with soda (optional): If you prefer a lighter drink, top with a splash of soda water.
Garnish and serve.
But let’s not forget the little ones on this day of love. You can make the same drink above; just substitute 4 oz. of ginger ale or ginger beer in place of the bourbon and bitters!
Whether you celebrate the love of family, romance, or friendship, this year’s Valentine’s Day collection is for all the birds, not just the lovebirds! We hope that your love takes flight however you celebrate and with whomever you share the holiday and chocolates with!
