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’m rebranding 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.