| "Winning this award was the result of constant challenge every day,” said Naomi Mizuno. Following three days of intense competition in Paris, Naomi, a Japanese chocolatier, was named the 2007 World Chocolate Master at this year’s renowned international chocolate contest.
Before an audience of spectators, judges, journalists and rivals, Munizo was handed a bouquet of flowers, a golden trophy and a cheque for €10,000. The skilled confectioner, whose career began in the Tokyo Futaba Patisserie School, would later demonstrate his culinary prowess at such famous establishments as Le Grenier à Pain, Paris.
Now, the ultimate delight – receiving the international chocolate crown.
Twenty of the world’s most skilled chocolate craftsmen and women assembled in Paris for this year’s international final. Having defeated tens of rivals in their own, national finals, these chocolatiers dazzled spectators seated in the public viewing galleries with their artistic skill and culinary dexterity. The jury, led by Spanish Master Chocolatier Francisco Torreblanca, scrutinised every aspect of the proceedings.
Above: Naomi Muzino, the 2007 World Chocolate Master, crafting his winning sculpture. Photo: World Chocolate |
Ingenuity was also critical in this year’s competition, with a theme challenging contestants to create works that explored ‘National Myths and Legends.’
And Mizuno did just that.
His chocolate showpiece, entitled Tengu, was a decorative feature exploring a legendary Japanese mountain god, and featured miniature leaves, lotus flowers and bells. Also adorning the sculpture was Tengu himself, holding an acer fan.
Above: The Winner’s presentation at the World Chocolate Masters, Paris, and a group photo of this year’s contestants. Photo: Barry Callebaut |
In second place, Frenchman Yvonnick Le Maux was commended for his chocolate pralines, while Italian Carmelo Sciampagna, who finished third, was commended for his chocolate dessert creation. Other awards included the Best Chocolate Praline and Best Chocolate Pastry.
Australia’s own chocolatier, Paul Kennedy, finished in eighth place, with a distinctly Australian showpiece featuring an Aboriginal Australian.
Above: Australia’s Paul Kennedy and China’s Anthony Qing Tao create their sculptures amid fierce competition. Photo: World Chocolate Masters |
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