After a brief visit, prompted by sheer nostalgia, to Woodstock, N.Y., (And since the town sells “40 years too late” bumper stickers, I’m thinking our types are pretty common.) we were ready to hit the road, but for one more quick stop. Dashing into a local, upscale clothier and gift shop,
Oliver Kita Chocolate Bar
I went looking for a hip summer dress or piece of jewelry, and I came out with a chocolate bar.
Labeled Hudson Valley Naturals, Artisan Chocolate, it was “Delightfully Dark Chocolate,” with 70 percent cocoa butter, handmade in the Hudson Valley by Oliver Kitta. Other bragging points were its certified organic and fair trade marks. Nice!
Visually, the chocolate bar is a delight with a lovely evening or early morning photo of the Hudson River Valley on the label. Inside, instead of beveled serving of equal size and shape, it’s a bit of art, with curving cocoa bean pods engraved in the chocolate.
The chocolate itself had a rich chocolate flavor, with just the right amount of sweetness, but was not as creamy as I’d hoped. At 70 percent, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I think creamier is possible.
Overall, the chocolate was of interest enough for me to learn a little more about the chocolatier. I found that Oliver Kita Chocolates have been around for more than 20 years in the Hudson Valley area, making vegan organic chocolate bars and other delectable creations.
I also learned that Oliver Kita has wonked up its own Willy Wonka style contest, placing golden tickets in its chocolate bars. Redeemable now through Dec. 31, 2012, at its Rhinebeck, N.Y. , location, each golden ticket can be redeemed for a free chocolate bar and an entry into its grand prize drawing for a $250 gift certificate and one-night stay at the luxurious Mohonk Mountain House. While not a special balloon ride with Gene Wilder nor the whole factory as your prize, it’s still a fun idea and promotion. www.oliverkita.com
