Fall Is In The Air, Gathering Nuts

This Thursday evening will be the season closer for San Carlos Hot Harvest Nights. And we certainly have had some very hot nights, many in excess of 90F. In a couple weeks, my Chocolate Marshmallow Gelato Pops and Chocolate Sodas will be just a memory. I am now designing my Winter Collection of chocolates. For this chocolate artist, the creative juices really only get flowing when the weather actually changes. And I need to see the seasonal produce in front of me, unlike the big companies who create their "Holiday Assortments" in, maybe, May. So for now I only know that I will be continuing to provide the Mediterranean Fusion Collection. But I can tell you that I'm thinking about using some premium Oregon Hazelnuts. I'm taking some time to get better acquainted with this nut. Many of you have asked about it. I've found out that the most "local" source is Oregon. And the flavor quality is outstanding. When combined with my chocolate, it is not sharp and piercing like some European versions. But rather it is mellow and fascinating. This works for me because I like my palate to be so intrigued by a flavor that I just can't get enough. I hope this will appeal to you, too.