Dark Chocolate Rustic Ganache Truffles

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) high-quality dark chocolate
  (70% cocoa), finely chopped

• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• Unsweetened cocoa powder, for rolling

• Optional: crushed nuts, finely chopped dried fruits, or shredded coconut for rolling

Directions

1. Prepare the Ganache Using a Double Boiler: Fill a saucepan with a few inches of water and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Place a heatproof bowl on top of the saucepan, ensuring it does not touch the water (this creates a double boiler). Add the chopped dark chocolate, heavy cream, and unsalted butter to the bowl.

2. Melt the Ingredients: Stir the mixture occasionally until the chocolate and butter are completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt until fully incorporated. .

3. Chill the Ganache: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the ganache is firm enough to scoop.

4. Form the Truffles: Using a small spoon or a melon baller, scoop out small portions of the chilled ganache and roll them into rough, rustic balls with your hands. The warmth of your hands will slightly melt the ganache, helping it form into balls. Roll each truffle in unsweetened cocoa powder until fully coated. For added variety, you can also roll some of the truffles in crushed nuts, finely chopped dried fruits, or shredded coconut.

5. Serve and Store: Place the finished truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set. Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

Suggested Pairing & Notes: HALL Coeur Cabernet Sauvignon

• Rich Black Plum and Black Cherry: The intense dark chocolate of the truffles will complement the rich black plum and black cherry notes in the Cabernet, enhancing the depth of both the wine and the truffles.

• Warm Barrel Spice and Vanilla: The vanilla extract in the ganache will echo the warm barrel spice aromas in the wine, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

• Firm Texture and Full Body: The full-bodied Cabernet with its firm texture will stand up well to the rich and creamy ganache, making each sip and bite a balanced and indulgent experience.

• Underlying Minerality: The slight sea salt in the truffles will enhance the wine's minerality, adding complexity to the pairing.

Enjoy these decadent dark chocolate rustic ganache truffles with our Coeur Cabernet Sauvignon for a truly luxurious and satisfying pairing!