Luxe Beat Magazine NOVEMBER 2014 | Page 61

Epicure Special chocolates to be paired with wines confectionary business. She knew her business was on the right track when she began selling to upscale hotels, who placed the chocolates on pillows at night. with high quality chocolate and marzipan imported from Europe. organic blackberry jam covered in dark chocolate. On this clear night in this intimate room near the belfry, Isabella and her husband, wine sommelier Jayson Knack, welcomed enthusiastic guests to take a place at the tall tables set for each guest. Isabella was determined to continue the time honored techniques passed on from generations, and uses no mass producing machinery in her shop. She insists on the finest ingredients for her sweet treats, Knowing we may need some caffeine for the road home, a mocha truffle made with espresso ganache and dipped in Swiss milk chocolate was paired with a Malbec. Isabella instructed us to take a bite of the chocolate first, then a sip of the matched wine. Jayson explained the key to wine and chocolate tasting is that chocolate is not sweeter than the wine. Also, acidity in chocolate has to be balanced with grapes ripened on the vine. The first edible delight was heart shaped and filled with rosewater caramel, which paired nicely with an Italian sparkling red wine. Spicy passion fruit, infused with togarashi spice from Japan, was the next confection, and a dry Sauvignon Blanc enhanced floral notes of the candy. Variety of chocolates in iPad like box The third wine, a California Petit Syrah, balanced the flavors of an 61 This tasting brought a new appreciation to swirling the glass of wine, smelling its bouquet and snapping the piece of chocolate. Isabella ended our adventurous evening by saying chocolates are as desirable as jewelry. Champagne, craft beers and artisan cheeses are other tasting events in this shop, with sensual aromas wafting in the air. If attending a tasting is not convenient, joining the chocolate club to receive seasonal assortments of decadent chocolates throughout the year will thrill the palate. www.Dallmannconfections.com 789 W Harbor Dr San Diego, Ca 92101 619.238.0045v