On a delightful Tuesday afternoon on Wednesday, April 23, the Unit 36 Orange Social Committee served up a sensory adventure that was equal parts delicious, educational and social. The much-anticipated Wine & Chocolate Tasting Event was a resounding success, selling out all available seats and drawing an enthusiastic crowd eager to sip, sample and socialize.
From the moment guests arrived, they were warmly welcomed with a glass of LaMarca Prosecco and a selection of small appetizers, setting a celebratory tone for the evening. As glasses clinked and conversations sparked, it quickly became clear this would be more than just a tasting—it was a gathering of neighbors and new friends.
The educational portion of the event kicked off with Craig Eaton, who shared his extensive knowledge of wines, guiding attendees through the art of pairing wine with chocolate. Janet Clark followed with a captivating and detailed presentation on the origins, processing and flavor profiles of chocolate—transforming each bite into a deeper appreciation of the craft.
Guests were treated to several specialist chocolates, including unique selections from San Tomé and Madagascar, offering bold and exotic flavor notes that paired beautifully with the evening’s featured wines:
- Daou Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 from Paso Robles, California
- Saviah Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Washington’s Walla Walla Valley
- 2019 Quinta das Carvalhas Port, a late bottled vintage from Portugal’s Douro Valley
As a final flourish, Janet surprised everyone with a batch of handmade chocolate truffles, a decadent and personal touch that left everyone smiling.
By the end of the event, tummies were full, palates were pleased and the room was buzzing—not just from the wine, but from the joy of shared experience. Guests had so much fun they said they can’t wait until the next one!
And speaking of which—if you live in Unit 36 Orange, keep an eye on your inbox. The Social Committee has plenty more events in the works, and you won’t want to miss what’s coming next!
