West Chester Dish

ALL MONTH LONG AT CHADDSFORD WINERY

CHADDS FORD, PA – On Thursday, January 31, from 7 to 9:30 pm, Chaddsford Winery’s Wine Educator Mark Cochard and Master Chocolatier Christopher Curtin, owner of the West Chester-based chocolate boutique, Éclat Chocolate will host a Master Class to kick off a romantic month long, series of Wine and Chocolate Tastings in February. In this special session the two experts will explain the intricate characteristics of wine and chocolate, and how they relate to each other. The fun and enlightening presentation will be punctuated with select vintages from the winery paired with Éclat’s carefully handcrafted chocolates. This educational event and tasting will cost $50 per person, and is available by reservation only.

“In this tasting we will discuss the flavor profiles, the compatibility and even the health benefits of wine and chocolate,” says Cochard. “When paired properly, participants will find that wine and chocolate go together splendidly. And what a romantic thing to do with your Valentine!”

Beginning Saturday, February 2, Chaddsford Winery will host Wine and Chocolate Reserve Tastings every Saturday and Sunday throughout the month. In each tasting, the winery’s well-informed educators will lead guests through a guided tasting of Chaddsford Winery’s wines and Eclat Chocolates. The pairings will include: Miller Estate Chardonnay with White Chocolate Champagne; Merlot with Lavender; Merican (Bordeaux/Cabernet blend) with Ginger; Pinot Noir with Cinnamon; and Sangria with 73 Percent Dark Chocolate. Sessions will be held at 1, 2:30 and 4 pm. The cost will be $20 per person and reservations are required.

On Saturday, February 16, Chaddsford will host a Valentine’s Day themed event for “pairs and spares.” The casual evening allows guests to mingle while tasting chocolates, cheeses and a variety of red and pink wines in the spirit of the holiday. Tickets cost $30 and reservations are required.

Chaddsford Winery, the largest and best-known winery in Pennsylvania, has led the way for a burgeoning premium wine region to emerge from the hills of the Brandywine Valley. The winery is located on Route 1 in Chadds Ford and is open for tours, tastings and sales every day from 12- 6 pm. For more information about the Chocolate and Wine Tastings, or to make a reservation, please call Chaddsford Winery at 610.388.6221 or visit the web site at www.chaddsford.com.

Christopher Curtin spent nearly two decades perfecting his craft, working and studying the fine art of chocolate in the world’s premier chocolate houses throughout Belgium, Switzerland, France, Germany, and Japan. Inside his West Chester based chocolate laboratory, Curtin balances the skill and dexterity of a scientist, with the passion and vision of an artist, as he handcrafts delectably decadent chocolates with only the finest ingredients. Éclat is open Tuesday through Friday from 11 am to 6 pm; and Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm. Éclat is located at 24 South High Street, West Chester, PA. For more information call 610.692.5206 or visit www.eclatchocolate.com.