A conversation with René Romen

If a brand name were to be used to define the meaning of provenance, 58chocolate would be it. Born and raised in Merano (in house number 58, of course), founder René Romen crafts his chocolate bars solely with beans that have been rigorously sourced from fair trade growers.

Tucked away in a cobblestoned alleyway in Merano that once housed the city’s first artisanal laboratories, this minimalist chocolate atelier serves up a considered range of crafted bars and seasonal additions that include pralines, hot cocoa and cookies. For René, his creations are an opportunity to connect with us, evoking positive emotions with every bite. “When eating my chocolate, I want people to feel happiness. It’s a privilege to even be here, in this moment, so let’s enjoy this bar of chocolate that has been made with love and joy together.”

René Romen © Markus Federspiel

With its eye-catching and distinct branding, René’s chocolate brand is one that captures his personality and story while remaining true to the values of impeccable craftsmanship and quality - all without forgetting a dash of humour.

Enthralled by René’s chocolatier vision, we asked him ten questions drawn from the Proust Questionnaire - a questionnaire that has its origins in a parlour game that had been popularised by French essayist Marcel Proust, and which was designed to reveal the player’s true nature.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Having the freedom to be creative and being able to realise my ideas. Also knowing that my family is well and that everyone is healthy.

What is your current state of mind?

Full of ideas, sometimes too many, and then I get lost in my thoughts.

If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, who or what would she/he/it be and why?

I would like to resurrect as a piece of art that leaves many questions open - a piece that no one can understand what its artist was thinking at the time, and yet which they can't stop staring at.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

I am grateful and happy for the way I am. As everyone else, I do have my flaws but they make me uniquely who I am.

What is your greatest regret?

I don't have any regrets. I guess the mistakes I have made in the past and the ones I will make in the future are part of my life.

What is your most treasured possession?

My private environment: friends, family and my wife.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

There is no peculiarity that separates men from women. I like when people are honest, friendly, and have a good sense of humour.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

There is no peculiarity that separates men from women. I like when people are honest, friendly and have a good sense of humour.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Having created my own brand (my little chocolate world).

What is your motto?

Be nice to people, so that they are nice back.