The journey of Lake Champlain Chocolates began with a simple dare in 1983, within the bustling kitchen of the Ice House Restaurant in Burlington, Vermont. Each year, Jim Lampman, the restaurant’s proprietor, would gift his staff with indulgent chocolates for the holidays. However, one fateful Christmas, his pastry chef admitted dissatisfaction with the offerings. In response, Jim issued a challenge: to create something superior. Thus began the collaborative effort to craft exquisite hand-rolled truffles, igniting a passion for chocolate-making that would shape the course of their future. This commitment to excellence remains at the core of Lake Champlain Chocolates, a locally-owned Vermont company dedicated to sourcing non-GMO ingredients globally and ensuring fair trade certification for 100% of its chocolate.
Rooted in Vermont’s rich heritage, Lake Champlain Chocolates embodies a commitment to craftsmanship and quality that extends beyond mere confections. With a reverence for the state’s abundant natural resources and culinary traditions, the company embraces locally-sourced ingredients like honey, maple syrup, and fresh dairy, recognizing their role in creating truly exceptional chocolates. From its humble beginnings behind the doors of the Ice House Restaurant to its current status as a national award-winner, Lake Champlain Chocolates continues to grow and innovate. Yet, amidst its success, the company remains grounded in its principles: a dedication to its customers, a relentless pursuit of excellence, and a passionate commitment to crafting chocolates that delight the senses and nurture the soul.