By Priya Hutner ·
For some, chocolate and passion are synonymous. So, when given the opportunity to write about Dorinda’s Chocolate, I jumped. Dark chocolate is a weakness. The shop makes handcrafted chocolates that tempt the sensations.
Whether your pleasure is dark, milk or white, Dorinda Vance, the self-proclaimed Duchess of Chocolate prevails.
She recently opened a new storefront in the Village at Squaw Valley. The enticing aroma of chocolate envelops me when I arrive. Dorinda greets me and places her favorite and most expensive chocolate, the Kraken, on the counter for me to experience. Made with organic chocolate and hazelnut praline, this morsel is most like a European praline.
Stamped with Dorinda’s flowered logo, I bite into a small piece, allowing the flavors to melt gently in my mouth. Decadent.
“Our Chocolate Covered Cherries are a demographic piece. People relate to them,” Dorinda explains.
It’s a nostalgic encounter for customers who are fans of dark chocolate cherries and buttercream ganache filling, she says. She has been making chocolate-covered cherries as holiday gifts for her friends and family since she was a young girl. This creation is one of her signature pieces.
Dorinda and I sit and get down to business; the next piece I sample is a salted, dark chocolate-covered caramel. It’s no wonder this piece was awarded the Best Original Taste at the Chocolate & Wine Festival. This chewy, homemade, buttery caramel wrapped in dark chocolate and sprinkled with coarse salt is divine.
Next, I try the White Chocolate Lemon Truffle, made with lemon peel, lemon juice and lemon oil. The lemon and white chocolate dance well together.
“This piece is lovely with a glass of champagne or chardonnay,” Dorinda says.
The Mint Meltaway is a must for any milk chocolate and mint lover. This indulgence is made with coconut oil making it rich, smooth and creamy.
“Using the best ingredients is what makes my chocolates superior,” Dorinda says.
She uses organic ingredients when possible and doesn’t use any corn syrup in her products.
With ski season, Dorinda plans to open Dorinda’s Chocolate Cafe in the Tram Building at Squaw and serve real hot chocolate and coffee along with chocolate croissants and fresh-baked pastries. Locals receive a discount on coffee. The shop also offers a Chocolate Club of Month and corporate packages.
With a variety of chocolate barks, Oreos dipped in chocolate, and seasonal creations Dorinda’s has something for every type of chocolate aficionado.
Dorinda’s Chocolate is located in the Village at Squaw Valley. The fall hours are from noon to 5 p.m. For information, call (775) 432-2024 or visit dorindaschocolates.com.
