The World Chocolate Masters, the international premium
competition solely dedicated to the art of chocolate, was born in
2005, after the merger of "Le Grand Prix International de la
Chocolaterie" organised by Cacao Barry, and the "International
Belgium Chocolate Award" organised by Callebaut.
Since its creation, the World Chocolate Masters has been dedicated
to specific themes: Surrealism, National Myths and Legends,
Haute Couture, Quetzalcoatl. The 2012-2013 edition will
focus on "The Architecture of Taste", where Pastry
chefs and Chocolatiers from all around the world will have to
express their architectural skills through taste. They will need to
analyse and compose with flavours. They will need to study and
design new shapes and textures, in which chocolate plays a
fundamental role. The World Chocolate Masters gives the opportunity
to artisans to showcase their talents and
creativity, and opens the doors for international
careers.
Shigeo Hirai from Japan wins the title of "World Chocolate
Master 2009"
2nd prize goes to Lionel Clement from USA, and 3rd prize to
Michaela Karg from Germany.
In 2009, the competition’s theme was "Haute Couture". In 2009, the President of the Jury was led by Yves Thuriès, Meilleur Ouvrier de France, and Jacques Bellanger, Meilleur Ouvrier de France, and Jean-Philippe Darcis, leading Belgian chocolatier.
Shigeo Hirai, Sous Chef of the Grand Hyatt Tokyo won the 2009 World Chocolate Masters title. Lionel Clement from United States won second place, followed by Michaela Karg from Germany in third place.
Special awards were given for the best “praline", the best “gastronomic chocolate dessert", the best “chocolate pastry" and the best “ chocolate showpiece". As a highlight to the 2009 theme, an additional award was given for the best "Chocolate decorated hat".
