Perfection does not begin to describe these chocolates. Vosges Haut-Chocolat are made from the finest ingredients offered around the world. Owner/Chocolatier, Katrina Markoff, personally chooses every spice, flower and chocolate that comes into their Chicago kitchen. The Vosges Haut-Chocolat mission is to create a luxury chocolate experience rooted in a sensory journey of bringing about awareness to indigenous cultures through the exploration of spices, herbs, roots, flowers, fruits, nuts, chocolate and the obscure.

I popped by the Vosges Haut-Chocolat boutique on Armitage Avenue today. Where else would I go for exotic truffles to bring to a gastronomic wine pairings dinner party? I sampled my way around the selections, finally settling on the Rock & Roll (dark chocolate truffles with clove) and a Balsamic and Hazlenut creation that made me weak at the knees. The y was surprisingly tempting – smoky yet subtle. Not at all what I expected.

If you’re lucky enough to live in or visit a city that includes a Vosges Haut-Chocolat boutique, I strongly suggest you stop by and check it out for yourself. If not, you can shop online and sometimes find Vosges Haut-Chocolat at your local Whole Foods or other luxury food purveyor.

• 20% off Mo’s Bacon Bar Library at Vosges Chocolat using 295AF1

Vosges Haut-Chocolat definitely fall into the ‘very expensive’ category – with prices comparable to most other ultra-luxury chocolates, but they are well worth the splurge. Especially for a special occasion. My truffles will be the perfect finishing touch to a lovely evening of wining and dining.

Looking for more? Browse our Chocolate Archives or visit our Chocolate Page.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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O & H Danish Bakery is internationally famous for their traditional Danish Kringle. Each Kringle is handmade from only the finest ingredients at their bakery in Racine, Wisconsin – as they have been made for the last 60 years.

Looking for more pastry? Check out our Sweets and Treats Mall.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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For Chicagoans this is an old time home town fave! Choose one of their Classic Chocolate Assortments or Create Your Own Assortment featuring your own favorites.

If you’re a fan of Fannie and you’ve been fantasizing about her scrumptious Trinidads, Pixies, CarMarsh Bars or any of her other dreamy treats, then we’ve got a deal for you!

• 15% discount with $39 purchase at Fannie May use code 10336, Expires 9/1/2009.

If you are reading this post after this offer has expired, or if you’re looking for more coupon codes from top online chocolate shops, visit our Chocolate Deals Page for the up-to-the-minute savvy scoop.

We’re here every day scouring the web and reporting on how to get the best deals on the best stuff from the best sources the web has to offer and how to find what simply can’t be found anywhere else. Don’t miss out. Visit us often. Get more for less. Find exactly what you’re looking for at the best possible price. That’s what we’re all about.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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Find the bedding of your dreams at Scheuer Linens.

Luxurious bed linens are a wonderful gift – indulgent yet practical. And something that’s sure to be used and enjoyed for a long, long time.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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Order your Honeybells now and they’ll be shipped in January at the peak of freshness. This wonderful citrus fruit also makes for a terrific holiday gift – the growers at Fancy Plants Farms will send a card advising the recipient of their soon to arrive treat.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

We’re here every day scouring the web and reporting on how to get the best deals on the best stuff from the best stores. Don’t miss out.

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One of my favorite no-fail gifts. Great for little holiday hostess gifts, friends, clients – just about anyone who has a Christmas Tree.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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There must have been at least 30 varieties of local apples from which to choose.  Loads of ’boutique’ varieties from local growers.  And lots of free samples!  The tasting almost made it harder to choose, but since I knew I’d be able to go back again, I felt a little less pressure.  My current favorite is the Hidden Rose – a small apple with light green skin, pink fruit and a sweet yet tangy taste.  Like a Grannie Smith with honey.  YUM! And it didn’t stop at apples. That was just the beginning! There were pears galore. Local wines. Smoked salmon. And lots more.

Hood River’s Choice Deluxe Fruit and Gourmet Gift Box

And guess who was there – at the local Columbia Gorge / Hood River farmer’s Harvest Market - along with all the local growers?  TheFruitCompany.com – they’re the ones who bring the freshest and best of Oregon to those of us who aren’t lucky enough to live here to taste it all in person!

Thought you’d want to know.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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And while you’re there…

• 15% off $20 or more at Fannie May with code 10215 thru Oct 31 If this offer has expired, click here for updated information.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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Beaufort Bars – Set of 3

$12.95 at Isabella Catalog

Beaufort Bars are handcrafted in North Carolina, and a portion of the profits goes to benefit local craftspeople. After your first taste, you’ll be glad they’re sold in a set of three bars.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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Because they are all hand made and of such incredible quality, Souchi sweaters can be pretty expensive although I must admit they are totally worthy of the investment.  I was lucky enough to find this 100% cashmere Souchi Wrap Cardi (regularly $436) is now on sale for a much more reasonable $240 (with free shipping) at IvyBlue.com . It’s currently in stock in all sizes – small, medium and large – although at this price I suspect it will sell out rather quickly. As will the other Souchi sweaters, tops and tunics that are on sale.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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New York Coffee Cup (Ceramic)

$24 at The NEW YORK FIRST Company

Displaced New Yorkers and all lovers of the big apple will love this new take on the legendary blue paper cup.

The founder of an environmentally-minded design group called Exceptionlab converted the New York coffee cup from disposable to permanent, from paper to ceramic. Manufactured of lead-free earthenware, the 10-ounce cups are microwave and dishwasher safe.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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Featured flavors include raspberry swirl, lemon coconut, chocolate mousse, key lime, chocolate swirl and too many others to name. They even make a sugar free cheesecake! For fall they are now featuring a Fall Spice Cheesecake – layers of pumpkin cheesecake, cinnamon mousse and spice cake topped with cream cheese icing and walnuts. Yum! Perfect for Thanksgiving.

Purists like me, of course, will always be partial to Junior’s Original Cheesecake.

Whichever is your personal cheesecake passion, it’s now easier than ever to indulge. Junior’s Cheesecakes are available through 1-800-FLOWERS.COM.

Junior’s Cheesecakes are certified kosher under Kof-K supervision.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, visit us often at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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I’ve tried this both in the Manhattan landmark ice cream parlor and at home it my own kitchen. Either way – it’s delish! And super easy to make.

Frrrozen Hot Chocolate Gift Box – Brown $25 at Soft Surroundings .

One of Oprah’s favorite things. And soon to be one of yours, too!

And color and drama to your home landscape with gorgeous caladiums.

From Fancy Plants Farms.

Where they also have some of the most beautiful fresh fruit and Florida citrus on the planet. By the way – caladiums are an excellent choice for container gardening and indoor planting as well.

Seaside Naturals consciously uses environmentally friendly manufacturing techniques, local suppliers, recycled and sustainable materials when available and manufactures their own products right here in the US.

New Orleans Blend® Coffee and Chicory

For generations their original Red Bag brews have been favorites of New Orleans’ greatest gourmet chefs and coffee loving locals alike. Especially their infamous New Orleans Coffee & Chicory and House Dark Roast.

Join Community Coffee Club and Receive a Free Gift

DJ Computer Bag (1704) – $68

The Manhattan Portage messenger bag was born in 1983 and quickly became a mainstay of Manhattan style. Over the years they’ve innovated and expanded their line to include bags for the different needs and styles of every urban walk and run of life. In addition to the traditional Original Messenger Bag, they now offer backpacks, ballistic bags, laptop cases, mini bags, shoulder bags, totes and even custom bags designed to a customer’s exact specifications.

Waxed Vintage Messenger Bag (1607V-WP) – $82

25 years later the Manhattan Portage name has grown to worldwide recognition and is a bag that can be seen just about anywhere in the world. And it looks good where ever you see it!

Wallstreeter (1444) – $110

• UPDATE AS OF 7/6/2008!!!!!
• FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY: Free Laptop Bag for every purchase above $100
• No coupon code required. Valid through 7/31/2008.

Perfect for gifting, cooking, baking and, of course, eating. As often as possible. Orders over $50 always ship free. Better yet, you can even get some FREE chocolate. Buy any 4 bars, Get 5th FREE

Fabulous! Available in sterling silver ($135) or 14k gold($425) A coordinating oval link bracelet is also available.

Janis has been a James Avery fan for quite a few years now – and with good reason. The craftsmanship is excellent. The pieces are solid and substantial without being at all heavy or clunky. The overall quality is comparable to high end designers like Tiffany – yet the prices are far more reasonable.  And a bit lighter and airier, if you know what I mean.  Their designs are also a bit more unusual than the more well known big names, which means you won’t see your new favorite earrings or bracelet everywhere you turn.

You can literally taste the sunshine.

Black Hound New York

Nothing compares!

Be savvy shopper, read us often at savvyshoppingblog.com.

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Their original “Red Bag” lineup includes a fabulous premium Dark Roast and their signature best selling New Orleans Coffee & Chicory Blend. They offer whole bean and ground coffees, flavored coffees, coffee and toddy makers and much more. With Mardi Gras just around the corner, maybe it’s time to treat yourself to a little taste of the Big Easy.

And just in time for the season of love… Orders over $20 ship free through 2/15/2008.

Sorry for the late notice but the inbox is overflowing with breaking news and we’re a teeny bit backed up over here.  Better late than never, right? And you’ve still got three of the four days left to save.

Gourmet meats make excellent gifts – particularly when you choose something totally fabulous like the legendary steaks from Montana Legend, Free Fed Ex on $250+.

Or you can buy more. Most wine merchants offer great discounts – if you want to buy a case. So what to do if you just want a bottle or two? Does that mean you have to pay full price? Maybe you want to send a thank you gift of a favorite wine or a wine gift basket. Do you have to pay retail? No, you don’t.

Enjoy a lovely selection of single bottles, wine packs and gift baskets at My Wines Direct. They’ve got excellent pricing every single day.

UPDATE AS OF 9/13/2008:

We are thrilled to announce that we are now including coverage of My Wines Direct in the savvyshoppingblog.com deals blog. Click here for the inside scoop on the latest coupon codes, discount offers, insider deals and more from MyWinesDirect.com.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, visit us often at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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Their one-of-a-kind chocolate Holiday gifts in award-winning packaging are elegant, indulgent and always appropriate. They also feature feature an exceptional selection of Wedding Favors and a Corporate Gift Program. Fabulous Chocolate Gift Baskets Excellent discounts on volume purchases. Receive Free Chocolates with Purchase – a bonus box of chocolates – when your order is $95 or more. And they’ve always got something deliciously discounted in their Chocolate Sale.

And as if that weren’t enough they are going mark down crazy in their Yankee Bargains Sale -Save Up To 75% at The Vermont Country Store . And they are now offering Yankee Bargains Weekly Specials at The Vermont Country Store – each week they will feature three apparel items at a special discount plus one other special product feature every week. Visit often so you can take advantage of these great weekly specials.

I like them for baking, cooking and just for eating.  Seasonal persimmons like these from Fancy Plants Farms are completely different than the Asian persimmons available all year long.  The taste is fuller and the texture is almost creamy. 

Their stunning jewelry is available at over 40 company owned stores located throughout Texas, Colorado, Georgia, Oklahoma, and Louisiana and their own exclusive web boutique. 

They grow, pick, pack and ship fresh Florida produce all year long at Fancy Plants Farms.  Check it out.  It will be as if you’re tasting an orange for the very first time.

Made in West Virginia for over 100 years – and the fourth generation of the Fenton family is still at the helm. Love that! 

For those of you that just can’t wait for the juicy goodness of some real “grass-fed, granola-finished” beef, Montana Legend is now offering FREE FedEx Overnight delivery on ALL orders! Montana Legend produces some of the best tasting steaks in the world, and pride themselves on exceptional service. Montana Legend guarantees full and complete satisfaction with every order.  

Or an expected source, if you’ve been there before. They’ve got finely tooled quality leather purses, briefcases and bags in a variety of styles and designs at Lone Star Western Decor – Some bags have a definite Western look, others are simple and classic and made from fabulous leathers.

UPDATE AS OF 1/13/2008: 10% DISCOUNT on orders over $79 at Lone Star Western Decor. Use Coupon Code LS1079.

Junior’s Cheesecake – $36 at The NEW YORK FIRST Company  

 
Montana Legend steaks are served at some of the finest restaurants in the country including Daniel (New York City), Cole’s Chop House (Napa) and others. 

UPDATE AS OF 2/6/2007:  RECEIVE FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $150 WITH COUPON CODE AFSO7.   VALID THROUGH 3/31/2007.

UPDATE AS OF 3/9/2007:  NEW CUSTOMERS RECEIVE FREE SHIPPING WITH THE PURCHASE OF THE MONTANA LEGEND GREENHORN SAMPLER FOR $139.  ENTER COUPON CODE GH07 AT CHECKOUT.  VALID THROUGH 3/31/2007. 

You’ll find great ideas here for stocking stuffers and lots of old time favorites sure to strike a nostalgic chord. 

For Chicagoans this is an old time home town fave! Choose one of their Classic Chocolate Assortments or Create Your Own Assortment featuring your own favorites.

If you’re a fan of Fannie and you’ve been fantasizing about her scrumptious Trinidads, Pixies, CarMarsh Bars or any of her other dreamy treats, then we’ve got a deal for you!

• 15% discount with $39 purchase at Fannie May use code 10336, Expires 9/1/2009.

If you are reading this post after this offer has expired, or if you’re looking for more coupon codes from top online chocolate shops, visit our Chocolate Deals Page for the up-to-the-minute savvy scoop.

We’re here every day scouring the web and reporting on how to get the best deals on the best stuff from the best sources the web has to offer and how to find what simply can’t be found anywhere else. Don’t miss out. Visit us often. Get more for less. Find exactly what you’re looking for at the best possible price. That’s what we’re all about.

Stay up-to-the-minute savvy, read us daily at savvyshoppingblog.com where we’re dedicated to better living through better shopping.

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