Sweet and Sustainable at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery

Known for its towering forests, lush vineyards, vibrant gardens and natural attractions, the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges have always been the ‘lungs’ of Melbourne.

As such, sustainability is always in season here and across the region, businesses are implementing environmental and socially responsible initiatives at the forefront of their core business, ensuring our region stays clean and green for generations to come.

An icon attraction of our region, Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery (YVCI) is certainly a favourite destination for families and sweet tooths alike.

Located on 16 hectares in Yarra Glen, it offers hundreds of handmade chocolate treats, free tastings, an all-day cafe, a large viewing window where visitors can watch talented European chocolatiers at work and plenty of outdoor space.

They're committed to sourcing ethically and ecologically grown cocoa products to create their tasty chocolate products.

At YVCI, you'll find plenty of your favourite treats with more than 250 different chocolate products containing fruits and nuts picked from their orchard and herbs from their kitchen garden. There are also Bush Tucker chocolate bars showcasing native ingredients and packaging designed by local Indigenous artists, a dedication to using locally sourced milk and the best quality single origin and Belgian couverture chocolate and cocoa butter.

They've partnered with a couverture supplier who supports the Fair Trade initiative and operates a Quality Partner Program with Fair Trade principles and responsible labour practices.

Fair Trade chocolate is made from cacao beans, grown by farmers who are paid a fair price for their crops, ensuring they're able to make a living from the farming. It also ensures decent working conditions for farmers and workers in the developing world.

The Quality Partner Program enables farmers to grow cocoa sustainably and responsibly, increase yields and quality and improve family livelihoods. Integrated activities include improving access to education, healthcare and clean water.

They also source Australian couverture chocolate from Daintree Estates in Far North Queensland to complement the international couverture supply.

What results is a huge range that includes everything from vegan to dairy, gluten and nut-free sweets you're certain to love.