Domaine De Bequignol Artisan Chocolatier Since 1972

Domaine de Bequignol – Artisan Chocolate Walnuts from Périgord (France) | History, Quality & Gourmet Range

Domaine De Bequignol is a family-run artisan chocolatier from Carlux in the Périgord region of South West France, an area internationally recognised for exceptional French gastronomy and premium local produce.

Discovered by The Good Food Network founder Paul Gimblett, who has long championed authentic French gourmet foods, Domaine de Bequignol is considered a true hidden gem of French confectionery.

The History of Domaine de Bequignol (Founded 1972)

Domaine de Bequignol was founded in 1972 by Claude Ginebre in the village of Carlux, Périgord. The company began with the production of walnut-based liqueurs, giving the founder deep expertise in working with the region’s famous walnuts.

By 1980, this knowledge evolved into the creation of their signature product:
👉 chocolate-coated Périgord walnuts, including the best-selling Petite Périgord Gold (Arlequines).

Over time, the range expanded to include:

• Chocolate-coated walnuts
• Chocolate-covered almonds and hazelnuts
• Fruit and nut chocolate combinations (prunes, mango, kiwi)

Today, the business continues under the leadership of Claude Ginebre and his daughter Marion Zanatta, supported by a small artisan team dedicated to innovation and quality.

What Makes Domaine de Bequignol Special?

Domaine de Bequignol is known for combining traditional French craftsmanship with premium ingredients, producing gourmet chocolate confectionery that stands apart from mass-produced alternatives.

Key quality features include:

• Premium Périgord walnuts and selected dried fruits
• High-quality dark chocolate and Gianduja
• 100% plant-based ingredients (suitable for vegetarians and vegans)
• Cocoa butter used exclusively as the fat source
• No cheap vegetable fats or industrial substitutes
• Small-batch artisan production methods

This commitment to quality results in a rich, refined taste with clear differences in texture and flavour compared to standard chocolate nut products.

Why Périgord Matters in French Gastronomy

The Périgord region of France is widely regarded as one of the country’s most important culinary areas, famous for:

• Walnuts
• Foie gras
• Truffles
• Traditional French artisan foods

Domaine de Bequignol fits naturally into this heritage, using locally sourced ingredients and regional expertise to create authentic French gourmet sweets.

The Domaine de Bequignol Range Today

The brand continues to produce an impressive range of French chocolate specialities, including:

• Chocolate-coated walnut gift boxes
• Almond and hazelnut chocolate treats
• Seasonal gourmet confectionery
• Premium gifting products such as Nougaillous boxes

At The Good Food Network, the focus remains on their signature Petite Périgord Gold chocolate walnuts, while occasionally featuring other limited artisan specialities for customers to discover.

Are Domaine de Bequignol products suitable for gifting?

Yes. These artisan French chocolates are:

• Elegantly presented gift items
• Ideal for Christmas, birthdays, and corporate gifts
• A premium alternative to standard confectionery
• Highly regarded for quality and originality

Why choose Domaine de Bequignol?

If you are looking for authentic French chocolate walnuts made in Périgord, Domaine de Bequignol offers a rare combination of tradition, craftsmanship, and premium ingredients. With over 50 years of heritage, the brand continues to deliver some of the finest artisan chocolate nut specialities in France.