Chocolate Wine from 1723

Summary

In this engaging video, the host explores the history and creation of chocolate wine, a delightful 18th-century recipe that combines chocolate and wine into a single indulgent drink. The recipe, from John Knott's 1723 cookbook, is simple yet rich, using just four ingredients: port, chocolate, sugar, and flour. The host delves into the fascinating history behind port wine, its English roots, and the royal history of chocolate in England, from its arrival at Hampton Court Palace to its popularity with King George I. The result is a decadent and historical drink, with tips for enhancing its flavor.

Takeaways

• 😀 The combination of wine and chocolate was first created in the 18th century as 'chocolate wine'.
• 😀 The recipe for chocolate wine is simple, with just four ingredients: wine (port or cherry), chocolate, sugar, and flour.
• 😀 Port wine became popular in England due to its long shelf life, which was enhanced by adding brandy during fermentation.
• 😀 In the 17th century, the British made port wine famous in England, even though it originated in Portugal.
• 😀 The drink's preparation involves simmering the ingredients to combine the chocolate with the wine, creating a thick, flavorful beverage.
• 😀 Hampton Court Palace, once home to English kings, had a dedicated 'chocolate kitchen' where royal chocolate drinks were prepared.
• 😀 King George I, known for his love of chocolate, employed a personal chocolatier, Thomas Toier, to deliver chocolate every morning.
• 😀 Grace Toier, Thomas's wife, used their royal connection to market their chocolate house, which became a popular venue in London.
• 😀 Chocolate was extremely expensive and labor-intensive to prepare in the 17th century, making it a luxury item for the elite.
• 😀 The use of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and chili peppers was common in chocolate preparations during this period, adding complexity to the flavors.
• 😀 The presenter was inspired to make the chocolate wine after speaking with Christian Dere from The Great British Bakeoff, who later created a tart using the recipe.

Q & A

What is chocolate wine, and where did it originate?

Chocolate wine is a combination of wine and chocolate that dates back to the 18th century. It was first mashed into a single recipe, known as 'wine chocolate' or 'chocolate wine', in the 1723 cookbook *The Cooks and Confectioners Dictionary* by John Knott.

What are the key ingredients in the historical recipe for chocolate wine?

The historical recipe for chocolate wine requires four key ingredients: a pint of cherry or red port, 4.5 oz (130g) of unsweetened chocolate, 6 oz of fine sugar, and 1/2 oz of white starch or fine flour.

Why did the host choose to use port wine instead of cherry wine?

The host opted for port wine because they personally love its rich taste, and port pairs particularly well with chocolate. Port is also historically relevant, given its connection to England in the 17th and 18th centuries.

What is the history behind the name 'port' wine?

Port wine originated in Portugal, where British merchants were importing wine in the 17th century. Due to poor bottling practices, the wine would often go bad on its way to Britain. To preserve it, they fortified the wine with brandy, which became known as port. The British merchants set up warehouses in Portugal, which is why many port wine brands have British names.

What is the significance of the chocolate kitchen at Hampton Court Palace?

The chocolate kitchen at Hampton Court Palace was built in the 1680s when chocolate was still a new and expensive luxury in England. It was dedicated to the royal family’s love for chocolate, especially during the reign of King William III, who was a fan of chocolate.

Who was Thomas Toier, and what role did he play in the royal chocolate culture?

Thomas Toier was the personal chocolier to King George I of England. His job was to deliver a fresh cup of chocolate every morning to the king. His post was so prestigious that he was considered part of the king’s personal staff rather than the kitchen staff.

What role did Grace Toier play in the chocolate industry?

Grace Toier, the wife of Thomas Toier, played a key role in promoting chocolate in London. After her husband's royal appointment, she marketed their chocolate house as a royal experience and even hosted events that mimicked the grand events at court. Her chocolate house became highly popular and attracted both the elite and the general public.

How does the historical chocolate wine differ from modern chocolate wine recipes?

Historical chocolate wine recipes like the one from 1723 are thicker and made with simpler ingredients, such as sugar, chocolate, flour, and port wine. Modern versions may be sweeter, less dense, and sometimes include additional flavors or spices like cinnamon or cardamom.

What did the host suggest could improve the chocolate wine recipe?

The host suggested that adding a bit of spice, such as cinnamon, cardamom, or even vanilla, could enhance the complexity of the chocolate wine. These spices were common in 18th-century chocolate preparations.

What is the connection between the 'Chocolate Rain' song and the video?

The host humorously references the 'Chocolate Rain' song from early YouTube as a fun, nostalgic connection to the topic of chocolate wine. This shows the host’s playful side while also revealing the random thought that popped into their head while making the recipe.