About Nicola’s - A Chocolate Adventure

I’m Nicola, a passionate chocolate maker and educator, former primary school teacher and mum, crafting handmade bean-to-bar chocolate from my small chocolate factory in Exeter. For years, I’ve been obsessed with the journey of cacao - from the farmers who grow it to the rich, complex flavours it holds.

After leaving the classroom in 2017, my fascination with chocolate took me on a whole new learning journey. I trained as a chocolate taster with the International Institute of Chocolate and Cacao Tasting (IICCT), developing my expertise in fine-flavour cacao and ethical sourcing. Over lockdown, I turned my passion into a craft, and by 2021 it became a business - winning multiple awards for my chocolate along the way.

Previously known as Exe Chocolate, I rebranded to Nicola’s to bring my love for craft chocolate even closer to home. By putting my name on every bar, I’m making a promise: that each piece is made with care, integrity, and a deep respect for the craft.

The Story Behind the Name

I originally launched my brand as Exe Chocolate, celebrating my local roots. But as my chocolate journey evolved, I wanted a name that felt more personal - one that invited people to join me in discovering the adventure of craft chocolate. That’s why I created Nicola’s: a brand that reflects my hands-on approach, my dedication to the craft, and my desire to build a chocolate community where people can connect with the process, the flavours, and the stories behind each bar.

Crafted with Purpose

At Nicola’s, chocolate isn’t just a sweet treat - it’s an adventure. I source ethically grown, fine-flavour cacao from small farms around the world, carefully roasting, stone-grinding, and tempering it in small batches to bring out its true character. No shortcuts, no unnecessary ingredients - just pure, thoughtfully made chocolate.

Beyond the Bar

I believe great chocolate should be experienced, not just eaten. That’s why I also create brewing cacao and cacao husk tea, offering new ways to explore the flavours of cacao. Through chocolate tastings and workshops, I love sharing my knowledge and passion, helping people explore chocolate in a whole new way.

Join the Adventure

This rebrand isn’t just about a new name - it’s about growing something bigger, together. Nicola’s is a space where chocolate lovers can come together, discover, learn, and be part of the adventure. Whether you’re tasting bean-to-bar chocolate for the first time, learning to brew cacao, or diving deeper into the craft, I invite you to be part of the story.

Want to taste and learn more?

  • Visit my chocolate factory in Exeter to see where the magic happens (factory tours coming soon!).

  • Join a workshop and learn to taste or make chocolate like a pro.

  • Sign up for my newsletter to get behind-the-scenes updates, new product launches, and exclusive chocolate content.

Come be part of the story - one bar, one cup, one adventure at a time.