Simon Wittenberg reports back after sampling the new Citrus Garden Summer Collection concocted by Pierre Marcolini; the Belgian chocolatier elected the “Best Pastry Chef in the World” in 2020.
With only a few weeks to go until Father’s Day, this could be the perfect gift for dads with a sweet tooth. After a long time in the making, the fruits of Pierre Marcolini’s labour is the new Citrus Garden Summer Collection, which brings together Valencian oranges, Calabrian bergamot, and lemons from Nice in beautifully crafted creations that tantalise the taste buds.
They have been designed to give the impression that you’re sat in an Iberian garden or are basking in the sunshine of the Côte d’Azur.
Pierre Marcolini (above) has worked with renowned producers to put together the delights in this Collection, which each have their own unique aroma, tenderness, and a hint of bitter zest.
There are various products to choose from, spanning gift boxes featuring chocolate tablets to a box of 12 summer macarons. The only product from the Collection that is not available in the UK is the candied Citrus Cake (£12), which will hopefully arrive on our shores one day!
We sampled the smooth and flavoursome amaretti (priced at £9.90 per box), which are soft almond and sugar biscuits with a strong hint of citrus – the perfect accompaniment to a steaming hot cup of tea. There are four different types to choose from in the Collection, including lemon and bergamot.
Our next treat was the “Citronettes” (also £9.90), which translates as candied lemon strips dressed in Pierre Marcolini’s signature homemade dark chocolate. Incredibly moreish, and with a slightly bitter taste, the generous helping in the box didn’t take too long to be devoured – it’s clear to see why this chef comes so highly acclaimed in his field.
Last but not least on our sampling menu was the raspberry and verbena jam (costing £8.50 per jar). The “Framboise-Vervienne” spread, as it is officially called, is an exciting combination, and the scents of the verbena flower are clearly evident, thanks to the infusion devised by Pierre Marcolini.
We had a couple of slices of rye bread with the jam, and the flavours worked well together. Jam is, of course, so versatile, so this would be delicious on any loaf.
If you’re stuck in terms of what to get a special dad, the Citrus Garden Summer Collection makes the perfect gift, but don’t count on them sharing anything, as this confectionary really is one to savour…
Pierre Marcolini Citrus Garden Summer Collection – Where and How?
The Pierre Marcolini Citrus Garden Summer Collection is now available to purchase from Pierre Marcolini’s Marylebone boutique, from counters in the Harrods and Selfridges stores in Central London, and on the Pierre Marcolini website.
See what we tried from the Citrus Garden Summer Collection on our Instagram page.