by Kriszia Vengua

Created on: February 13, 2009   Last Updated: February 17, 2009

You've probably guessed from the title that this article is for women, because guys will eat anything sweet that's put in front of them. Yes, they might say something, perhaps a passing comment saying that this isn't what they prefer. But they'll eat it anyway, with just as much gusto as they would something that they actually "liked". So much so that you could hand them a box of gourmet chocolates and they will no doubt consume it much like a store bought Hershey bar. Not that they can't tell these chocolates delivered, but more that he just doesn't care.

Women, on the other hand, are a lot more discriminating. Their affinity for gourmet chocolates borders on the divine, in that eating them brings them such pleasure that one can only describe as sublime. Not only can they taste the difference, but they can see the difference. To women, good gourmet chocolate doesn't just depend on the way it tastes (although that is paramount), but it should also look good, taste good, and be gifted with the utmost though (if not, purchased with the exact same attention).

Everything must be perfect in order to enhance the chocolate eating experience, and nothing elevates this ritual to an absolute frenzy more than Valentines Day.

On Valentines Day, women not only crave chocolates, but they demand it. Diets are broken, resolutions are placed temporarily on hold, and excuses are made in order to purchase the most decadent of confections.

Don't have a gift but want to stay on her good side? No problem. Go online and MapQuest the nearest confectionery store. Then go and buy the prettiest gift basket that says "gourmet chocolates" on it. And while it shouldn't break your monthly budget, buy something that's going to create a tiny prick on your wallet that's a punishment for buying her something at the last minute.

Looks a little too rich? Don't worry, calories are rendered ineffective on Valentines Day, and it's not fattening so long as it has the words "Belgian Chocolates" embossed on the label in gold letters. This is the one day when things can be forgiven, and if you're smart this is the time you can tell her that you're sorry for breaking one of her favorite vases.

If she's the adventurous type, then try one of the more exotic blends. Zesty wine filled pralines and dewy dark chocolates should round up the more European affairs. While Asian gourmet chocolates are notorious at adding a little spice to their sweets, so don't be surprised if you find weird combinations such as peppercorn and hot peppers.

But no matter how much your box of Valentine chocolates are, nothing beats the fact that you gave it with a lot of love, and with a lot of thought, which is what makes Valentine's day chocolates all the more special.

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