"We belong to the civilization of the olive. We love strong oil, green oil—the kind whose fragrance makes reading the Iliad and the Odyssey unnecessary."
Jean Giono, Noé
Our History: The Origins of Espérantine
A creation rooted in the Mediterranean
Espérantine de Marseille was born in 1999, on the occasion of the 2600th anniversary of the Phocean city. Designed as a bridge between flavors and symbols, it embodies the Mediterranean spirit in an exceptional chocolate that blends 70% dark cocoa, sweet almond, candied orange peel, and a secret touch of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
A powerful symbol: the olive leaf
Beyond its taste, Espérantine is instantly recognizable by its shape: an olive leaf, the ultimate Mediterranean emblem—symbolizing peace, fertility, and hope. This strong visual identity further anchors it in its cultural and territorial roots.
From its debut, Espérantine quickly won over the people of Marseille before earning the prestigious “Cordon Bleu” award for Best Confectionery at the Intersuc Paris fair in 2000—a success born of boldness and pride in local creation.
The Founder: Francesco Martorana, Artisan of a Vision
A unique story shaped by the Mediterranean and fine gastronomy
Behind l’Espérantine stands a man with a singular journey: Francesco Martorana, a former high-level athlete, naturally attuned to the demands of sports nutrition.
At the same time, as a graduate in Literature and Humanities with an insatiable curiosity, his readings had revealed to him how, in the 18th century, gastronomy emerged as a true turning point.
This new culinary philosophy transformed nutrition by introducing the notion of the “gourmet,” elevating indulgence (gourmandise) into refinement. Convinced by this evolution, and after his athletic career, Francesco Martorana became a restaurateur. There, he developed a rigorous culinary expertise and a rare sensitivity for the balance of flavors.
An innovative vision: olive oil at the heart of chocolate
By combining this mastery with his deep knowledge of Mediterranean traditions, he conceived an innovative confectionery: one that is at once delicious, healthy, and cultural.
His vision? To create a chocolate that tells a story — the story of the Mediterranean, of well-being, and of sharing.
…But with one unexpected ingredient in the world of chocolate: olive oil. This became the key element of his signature creation — a natural flavor enhancer, symbol of nobility and refinement.
Our Values: Nutrition, Taste and Health
A mindful indulgence
Beneath the smoothness and harmony of Espérantine lies a genuine commitment to nutrition. The use of olive oil in confectionery is a bold but coherent choice: it is a natural flavor enhancer and also offers antioxidant and digestive benefits.
A healthy alternative
Espérantine’s exclusive recipe charts a new path in the world of chocolate: indulgence that’s healthier and lighter, without compromising on pleasure. A rare positioning at the crossroads of fine chocolate tradition and nutritional awareness.
Our Commitments: Excellence, Proximity and Transparency
Every Espérantine is made using rigorous traditional methods and time-honored know-how. Strict hygiene standards and a constant pursuit of quality guide our daily production.
Our chocolates are guaranteed pure cocoa butter, sourced from the finest African and South American plantations. All ingredients are selected from French or European partners known for their excellence.
Orders are processed within 24 hours (business days), with fast delivery and real-time tracking. We take pride in offering a service that is reliable, human, and responsive—just like our brand.
For over 25 years, we’ve been meeting our customers at gourmet fairs across France. Hospitality, transparency, and satisfaction are at the heart of our approach, both in-store and online.
Your trust is invaluable. If any promise isn’t fulfilled, we commit to refunding you immediately.
Let’s enjoy chocolate fully—without guilt or shame—because, let’s remember:
« Without a touch of madness, no man is truly wise. »
François de La Rochefoucauld
The Espérantine Team
Behind each olive-leaf-shaped Espérantine is a whole team—united and passionate.
Chocolatiers, artisans, salespeople, advisors, and staff: all share the same dedication to quality, flavor, and customer care.
They are trained in our products and deeply attuned to the principles of nutrition, embodying the high standards and warm spirit that define our brand.
But beyond skills, they are above all unique individuals, chosen for their human values, sense of sharing, and team spirit.