Anour Chocolat, a new brand specialising in gem-shaped artisanal chocolates, has launched in Monaco. Officially introduced on 28th January, the collection combines craftsmanship with refined flavours, offering a high-end tasting experience. Monaco Life was among the first to explore the new addition to the local gourmet scene.

After months—if not years—of trials and refinement, Anour Chocolat, a new Monaco-based brand, made its official debut this week.

Created by Nour Malas, a Monaco resident for 15 years, the maison focuses on small-scale production and a niche approach, offering chocolates crafted for a distinctive culinary experience. Each piece is shaped like a precious stone, drawing inspiration from polished gems and fine jewellery.

At the launch event, Monaco Life spoke to Malas to learn more about her vision for Anour Chocolat and the process that took her brand from conception to reality.

Emotion and connection

The name Anour reflects Malas’s personal connection to her work. As she explained to Monaco Life, the name is a blend of the French word amour—meaning love—and her own name, reflecting her belief that chocolate conveys emotion and connection.

The brand currently offers six unique creations developed in collaboration with a master chocolatier from the French Riviera. Among them is Irresistible, a pairing of Morello cherry and red fruit tea, which Malas says is her personal favourite.

Other chocolates include Seductive, a mix of dark chocolate and blue ginger from Madagascar, and Mysterious, a hazelnut praline infused with cardamom. There is also Gentle, a pecan praline with a rich sweetness, and Freshness, a ganache made with verbena, lemon and mint. Lastly, Vegetal is a vegan creation pairing apricot and rosemary.

In addition to these, Anour Chocolat also offers a selection of artisanal chocolate tablets, including a 66% dark chocolate with fleur de sel and a milk chocolate with roasted Piedmont hazelnuts. The collection also features the Giant Mendiant, a shareable chocolate creation available in either milk or dark chocolate, topped with options such as candied orange, roasted almonds and goji berries.

Anour Chocolat distinguishes itself by focusing on small-batch, on-demand production rather than mass manufacturing.

“This is not just chocolate; it’s a translation of emotion. Each flavour has been carefully designed to evoke something unique,” said Malas.

Referring to the brand’s niche availability, she added, “You need to want it and look for it.”

Malas explains that her inspiration comes from her surroundings in Monaco and her personal experiences, saying, “The beauty of the Principality and my sensory journey are behind every creation.”

She also recounted how her passion for chocolate began in Switzerland, where she fell in love with the aromas and craftsmanship of Geneva’s chocolate shops.

Currently, Anour Chocolat is available exclusively online, but Malas is working to expand its reach by partnering with local distributors. She is also exploring collaborations with gourmet shops and fine dining establishments in the region.

The packaging reflects the brand’s focus on exclusivity, with a simple design showcasing the product’s quality. Malas said the concept took two years to develop, with one of the biggest challenges being the creation of flavours that are distinct and align with the brand’s vision.

Anour Chocolat plans to host a few pop-up events throughout the year, allowing customers to experience the chocolates firsthand. Malas also hinted that the products may soon be available at high-end locations, including the Hermitage Hotel in Monaco.