SeeCalifornia.com

Chocolate is a universally loved food served most often as a dessert. Derived from the seeds of the cacao tree which naturally have an intense bitter taste, they are fermented to develop the flavor. Chocolate molded into shapes are traditionally gifted on Valentine’s Day (hearts), Easter (eggs and bunnies), Hanukkah and Christmas. While many receive a box of chocolates as a holiday gift, hot chocolate is popularly served in community tree lighting ceremonies as well.

Lauded for its antioxidant potential, the higher the cocoa content (and less sugar), the more health benefits eating chocolate may include such as lowering cholesterol levels, preventing cognitive decline and reducing the risk of cardiovascular problems.

California chocolatiers embrace the art of chocolate making with gourmet chocolates lovingly made in cities throughout the state, including Glen Ellen (at Wine Country Chocolates) where delightful truffles contain local favorites–champagne, port and wine.

For those who can’t get enough of this sweet treat some consider an aphrodisiac, California’s the place to be for awesome chocolate dreams. Yes, many fans dream of eating heavenly chocolate concoctions.

California Chocolate Festivals

• SACRAMENTO: Sacramento Chocolate Salon January 26, 2020
• BENICIA: Wine & Chocolate Walk February 1
• KELSEYVILLE: Wine & Chocolate Festival February 1
• REDDING: Turtle Bay Exploration Park’s Chocolate After Dark: A Wine and Chocolate Experience February 7
• GILROY Gourmet Wine & Chocolate at Solis Winery February 8
• BELMONT SHORE: Chocolate Festival February 8
• CLARKSBURG: Port, Wine & Chocolate Lover’s Weekend February 8-9
• ESCONDIDO: For the Love of Chocolate Festival February 8
• FRESNO COUNTY: Wine and Chocolate Lovers Weekend February 8-9
• LODI: Wine and Chocolate February 7-9
• MADERA: Wine & Chocolate Weekend February 8-9
• MARTINEZ: Wine & Chocolate Stroll February 8
• LOS ANGELES: Wine, Cheese & Chocolate February 14-16