Notes on chocolate: Memories of a much-loved dad on Father’s Day

Happy Father’s Day for those who celebrate it. My dad died nine years ago. Whenever he came to visit, and I’d make sure he did as often as possible, he’d spend most of his time in my garden, sweeping up detritus or chopping wood. And occasionally being a little too cavalier with the garden shears, which pleased me, but caused my husband consternation.

When my dad actually came into the house, his first utterance was always ‘Hai bisogno?’ (Do you need any help?) I’d usually be baking and that would usually involve nuts, the chopping of which remains one of my least favourite kitchen tasks. So I’d get him doing that. I think of him every time I do this now.

He had a penchant for anything nutty covered in chocolate and would say, ‘Levali da davanti’ (Take them away) if presented with any. He was a man with formidable will power, so I always thought it quite funny that a mere combo of nuts and chocolate was his kryptonite (he also really liked Cheryl Cole).

I wondered what he’d make of Sur’s Dulce de Leche Chocolate salted mixed nuts, £9.96.

I loved the retro tin. On first peak the contents look like peanuts yet there are none; the nuts used are almonds, pecans and cashews, dipped in dulce de leche chocolate. There’s no mistaking this is a very sweet treat, but oh so more-ish.

The Sur whisky alfajores, £5.50, were made for Father’s Day, so we’re a bit late, but do look at the whisky ‘tasting’ truffles, £11.90, which are a rich and delicious mix of dark chocolate ganache and four different types of whisky – in limited quantities for a limited time. Like all good things.