Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and the proverbial box of chocolate promises to be an even tastier treat this year with all the sour economic news. Everyone seems to have a favorite type or brand, but let us introduce you to a Manassas business that specializes in handmade gourmet chocolates.

Chocolaterie Wanders has a production plant in Manassas which is open only by appointment but its product is available in a number of nearby shops including Pearmund Cellars and The Winery at La Grange. They also have an online presence which should help stave off the late-nite cravings.

Melanie Wanders, a Culinary Institute graduate who worked in Europe for a number of years learning how to make artisan confectionaries, and husband Wilhelm who was born into the chocolate family have figured out how to keep the country happy. The family business dates back to the early 1700s in Elten, Germany

almond pistachio

Personal favorites include the Salted Peanut Pave which uses the Virginia peanut gianduja with a touch of sea salt, and the Pistachio Almond, a housemade pistachio marzipan atop a creamy almond gianduja.

Enjoy this local business that furthers the bounty of the Piedmont. There’s no need to travel far for top quality artisan chocolates that should bring a smile to any Valentine or gourmet lover regardless of the season.