The Sweet Story of Tasmanian Chocolate — And the Makers Carrying It Forward Today

Tasmania is known for many things — pristine landscapes, world-class wine, and a food culture shaped by passion and place. But tucked among the orchards, vineyards, and rolling valleys is another story visitors love to discover: Tasmania’s long, rich history of chocolate making.

Chocolate might not be the first thing people think of when planning a trip to the island… but once you taste what’s crafted here, it often becomes one of the most unforgettable parts of the journey.

A Brief History of Chocolate in Tasmania

Tasmania has been home to chocolate makers for more than a century. Early confectioners in Hobart were producing handmade sweets for local families long before Australia had household-name chocolate brands. Over time, small-batch operations, independent chocolatiers, and local artisans built a culture of craftsmanship — one that valued flavour, quality ingredients, and traditional methods.

What makes Tasmanian chocolate special is not just cocoa beans and recipes, but the island itself. Its cool climate, clean air, and thriving network of growers and producers have encouraged generations of makers to treat chocolate as more than a sweet treat… it became a craft.

Today, the story continues — and it’s being told by a new wave of passionate chocolate makers shaping Tasmania’s evolving identity as a chocolate destination.

The Makers Continuing Tasmania’s Chocolate Story

Federation Chocolate — Handcrafted, Ethical, and Unmistakably Tasmanian

Nestled in the Coal River Valley at Richmond, Federation Chocolate stands proudly among Tasmania’s modern chocolate artisans. What began as a small local operation has grown into a family-run chocolate factory producing bean-to-bar chocolate, single-origin creations, and hand-poured Tasmanian experiences.

Everything is made right here in Tasmania using ethically sourced cacao, gentle traditional methods, and a commitment to keeping chocolate making local, personal, and honest. Visitors can explore the process from bean to bar, enjoy tastings, and even pour their own Tasmania-shaped chocolate block — a delicious keepsake from their trip.

For travellers searching “what food is Tasmania famous for?” or “things to do in Richmond Tasmania,” this is a must-visit stop.

House of Anvers

Located in Latrobe in the state’s north-west, House of Anvers has long been part of Tasmania’s chocolate landscape. Known for truffles and classic European-style chocolates, they’ve helped build the island’s chocolate tourism trail and have introduced many visitors to local chocolate craftsmanship.

Coal River Farm

Another stop along the Coal River Valley, Coal River Farm brings a modern, open-kitchen approach to chocolate and patisserie. Visitors can enjoy watching chocolates being crafted while also sampling a wide selection of local produce — from cheese to seasonal desserts.

Other Emerging Makers & Artisans

Tasmania continues to attract passionate small producers who use local ingredients — berries, saffron, honey, pepperberries — to create distinctive chocolate expressions. These makers add depth to Tasmania’s chocolate culture and make exploring the island deliciously rewarding.

Why These Makers Matter

Tasmania’s chocolate community isn’t just about sweets — it’s about:

• Keeping artisan production alive

• Supporting ethical cacao farming

• Creating meaningful food experiences

• Celebrating local ingredients and producers

• Offering travellers something truly handmade

When visitors choose small, local chocolate makers, they help sustain real craftsmanship and ensure the island’s chocolate traditions continue for generations.

Planning Your Chocolate Trail? Start in Richmond.

Richmond is one of the most visited villages in Tasmania — and for good reason. With its historic bridge, vineyards, and artisan producers, it has become a hub for food lovers.

A stop at Federation Chocolate offers travellers:

• A behind-the-scenes look at real chocolate making

• Warm, family-run hospitality

• Chocolate tastings, hot chocolates, and special experiences

• A chance to take home a handmade Tasmanian chocolate block

• Remember to book your experience to avoid disappointment

It’s chocolate, but with heart. And it’s one of the sweetest ways to connect with Tassie’s food culture.