As the festive season approaches, supermarket shelves are brimming with colourful tubs of Christmas chocolates, each promising to be the star of your celebrations. Marks & Spencer has thrown its hat into the ring with what many are calling their answer to the classic Quality Street tin.
Armed with a sweet tooth and high expectations, I embarked on a taste test mission to determine whether M&S's offering could truly compete with the household favourite that has graced British coffee tables for generations.
The First Impressions
Upon opening the vibrant purple tub, the immediate visual appeal is undeniable. The chocolates glisten invitingly, each wrapped in festive foil that hints at the treasure within. The assortment appears generous and varied, promising a diverse tasting experience.
The Standout Performer
Among the collection, one chocolate emerged as the undeniable champion: the caramel swirl. This delightful creation features smooth milk chocolate enveloping a rich, flowing caramel centre that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sophisticated. The texture is sublime, and the flavour profile feels decidedly premium.
Other notable mentions include the hazelnut whirl, which offers a satisfying crunch, and the orange creme, which delivers a refreshing citrus burst that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Where It Falls Short
Not every chocolate in the tub hits the mark equally. The strawberry creme divided opinion with its artificial undertones, while the coffee creme might disappoint those expecting a robust coffee flavour. The coconut offering also felt somewhat lacking in intensity compared to its counterparts in other brands.
Value for Money
Priced competitively with other premium chocolate selections, the M&S tub represents reasonable value, especially when considering the quality of the standout pieces. The packaging feels substantial and reusable, adding to the overall appeal.
The Final Verdict
While it may not completely dethrone the nostalgic favourite that is Quality Street, M&S's Christmas chocolate collection certainly holds its own. The caramel swirl alone makes it worth consideration for your festive shopping list. For those looking to mix up their Christmas chocolate routine or seeking a slightly more sophisticated alternative, this offering provides plenty to enjoy.
Ultimately, the success of any Christmas chocolate selection lies in its ability to bring people together and create moments of shared enjoyment. In that respect, the M&S tub delivers exactly what it promises: quality chocolates that will undoubtedly disappear quickly once opened.
