I’ve been covering the best Advent calendars for three years. And every season, without fail, a calendar stops me in my tracks. Sometimes, I’m awed by the story-telling packaging. Other times, I am lured in by the surprises. And, on occasion, a staggering price tag catches my eye. (Looking at you, $4,400 Dior countdown!)
In 2024, the honors for the most jaw-dropping Advent calendar go to none other than Vosges Haut-Chocolat’s Nordic Forest Chalet. Yes, this beauty costs a pretty penny. But here’s why it’s a worthy investment for serious chocolate lovers.
What is the Vosges Chocolate Advent calendar?
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME
The Vosges Haut-Chocolat Advent calendar is a sweet tooth’s dream. It captures all the magic of the season in one whimsical package. As I said, I’m an experienced Advent calendar tester who’s encountered dozens of countdowns, but my jaw dropped when the Vosges option showed at my door.
This year’s theme, Nordic Forest Chalet, transports you into the woods for 25 days of decadence. The calendar itself is shaped like a cozy purple cottage, decked to the brim in holiday decor. But wait, it gets cooler. The chalet lights up and plays music! Rechargeable via USB-C, enjoy twinkling lights and Christmas carols as you open each drawer.
Every inch is covered with stunning details, from the velvet-kissed roof shingles to the Nordic art on the drawers. Heck, there are even bottlebrush trees flanking the entrance! This is by far the most luxurious perishable Advent calendar I’ve ever seen, and it will absolutely last for enjoyment season after season.
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME
My favorite detail, though, has to be the animal artwork. The house is full of musical forest friends—including an owl, squirrel, wolf and reindeer—who are eager to keep you company throughout the holiday season. The attention to detail is unmatched.
The countdown measures roughly 14 inches high and spans a full two feet when open. I highly recommend finding a prominent spot for your Advent calendar and treating it as the showstopping holiday decoration it is.
VIA MERCHANT
VIA MERCHANT
What’s inside the Vosges Chocolate Advent calendar?
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME
If the intricate packaging wasn’t enough to get your attention, the contents of the Vosges Chocolate Advent calendar certainly will. (And if you’d rather it be a surprise, skip this section!)
Vosges Haut-Chocolat is already known for their creative confections. (After all, they won the “most exotic” award in our best boxed chocolates showdown.) They source only the best ingredients from around the world and merge unexpected flavors for a novel experience. The Advent calendar is no different. Here’s just a sample of what you’ll find inside:
- Blood Orange Truffles: Early-harvest Mediterranean olive oil mixes with a blood orange gelée, 72% cacao dark chocolate and candied orange peel
- Cinnamon Pecan Toffee: Sweet butter toffee and Georgian pecans merge with Vietnamese Royal cinnamon and 72% cacao dark chocolate
- Red Fire Chocolate Hearts: 62% cacao dark chocolate gets an extra pep with Ancho chilies and Sri Lankan Ceylon cinnamon
- Peppermint Candy Cane Gnomes: Holiday peppermint and ceremonial matcha green tea enliven 72% cacao dark chocolate and candy cane
- Fennel Shortbread Cookies: Shortbread cookies made with Kerrygold butter feature Tuscan wild fennel pollen and 62% cacao dark chocolate
Now, as you can see, these flavors go well beyond the standard milk chocolate truffles and peppermint bark confections found in many chocolate Advent calendars. It’s an experience that will broaden your palate and your holiday spirit. Every single item I tested from the calendar was fresh and decadent. Plus, most portions are large enough to share with a loved one.
Where to Buy the Vosges Chocolate Advent Calendar
VIA MERCHANT
VIA MERCHANT
The Nordic Forest Chalet is available on the brand’s website. Each collection is packed fresh the same day it ships. Quantities are limited, and this calendar has a tendency to sell out every year.
If you miss out, there are still plenty of sweets to be found in the Vosges Holiday Shop.