Doubtless, wine tasting is an excellent way to pass the time.

But the harder you study, the less likely you are to remember what you’ve gleaned.

For samplings of a different sort — the kind where you don’t have to spit anything into a bucket — try the chocolate tastings at Pierre Marcolini’s Kensington shop. Held on the last Tuesday of the month, each is two blissful hours of unlimited amounts of high-quality dark, milk and white chocolate from all over the world.

The shop also offers private tastings at your home or office — ideal for birthdays and hen nights. (Or go the whole way and hire a chocolate fountain for your living room.) If you do fancy a little alcoholic accompaniment, you can pair the chocolates with select wines, cognac, champagne and rum.

We can’t guarantee you’ll recall what you’ve learned.

But such oblivion will be sweet, indeed.

Pierre Marcolini Boutique, 6 Lancer Square, W8 (020 7795 6611 or pierremarcolini.co.uk). Tastings take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Cost: £20 per person. Book in advance.