DeBrand Chocolates undoubtedly de-best.

• Position: WHAT'S NEW? Holiday Gift Guide - Product/service evaluation

Naturally, it wouldn't be the holidays without some sinfully delicious chocolates on hand, which make terrific gifts and are wonderful to set out for unexpected company or a well-planned affair.

In a European-inspired chocolaterie in Fort Wayne, Ind., hand-crafted artisan chocolates are made at DeBrand Chocolatier. Combining fresh dairy products from the Midwest with premium spices, fruits, nuts, and cocoas from around the world has proven a successful recipe for DeBrand, whose best-selling gift is the 1 lb. Classic Box ($36, 28 pieces). The molded shapes give away the surprise of the delectable treat inside, with the Cherries & Cream designed as two-stemmed cherries and Orange Cream looking just like a wedge of the fruit. We were fooled by the piece with the peanut shape on top, not expecting the delicious dab of jelly inside. Of course, we could have just looked at the carefully photographed Chocolate Guide included with each box. It details the luscious caramels and other fruit creams in this collection.

For the more daring palate, the Connoisseur Box ($36, 16 pieces) contains unique combinations of...