Chocolate and romance…name a more iconic duo!
Whether it’s a heart-shaped box of truffles, a gooey fondue date, or a decadent dessert shared on a candlelit evening, chocolate has long been the ultimate symbol of love.
But how did this sweet treat become the go-to for romance? Let’s explore!
Chocolate Through History
Long before chocolate was wrapped in gold foil and sold in fancy boutiques, it was considered the “food of the gods.”
The story begins over 4,000 years ago with the Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs, who worshipped cacao as a divine gift. But if you’re picturing them sipping creamy hot cocoa, think again! Ancient chocolate was bitter, spicy, and mixed with chili and water, more like an energy-boosting elixir than a sweet treat.
When the Spanish conquistadors brought cacao to Europe in the 16th century, sugar was added, transforming it into the sweet, creamy delight we adore today.
By the 18th century, chocolate was linked to luxury, passion, and indulgence, especially among royalty. Casanova, the infamous lover, was even rumored to use chocolate to seduce his conquests.
What Makes Chocolate Romantic?
So, how did chocolate go from an ancient elixir to the world’s favorite love token?
Here’s why it’s an enduring symbol of romance:
1. It’s a Natural Mood Booster
Chocolate is packed with phenylethylamine (PEA), a compound that mimics the feeling of being in love.
It also triggers endorphins and serotonin, which basically make your brain throw a little happiness party. No wonder it’s the comfort food of choice!
2. It’s a Universal Love Language
No matter where you go, chocolate is an international symbol of affection. From Swiss truffles to Belgian pralines to rich Mexican mole sauce, every culture has its own way of incorporating chocolate into love and celebration.
3. History Made It Romantic
Over the centuries, chocolate became linked with courtship. Victorian-era gentlemen gifted ornate chocolate boxes to their love interests, hoping to win their affections.
By the time Richard Cadbury (yes, that Cadbury) introduced the first heart-shaped chocolate box in the 1800s, the connection between chocolate and love was officially sealed!
Fast forward to today, and chocolate is practically the official currency of Valentine’s Day. Americans alone are projected to buy 75 million pounds of chocolate during Valentine’s week 2025!
Chocolate & Wine: The Ultimate Love Affair
The only thing that could make chocolate better? A stellar wine pairing!
Like any great love story, chocolate and wine balance and enhance each other, creating an indulgent and intimate sensory experience.
The key to the perfect pairing? Match intensity with intensity—a bold, full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec complements the richness of dark chocolate, while a smooth, sweet Moscato or Riesling pairs beautifully with creamy milk chocolate.
Discover a wide variety of chocolate and wine pairings during Red Wine & Chocolate in the Lake Chelan Valley! All February long, our award-winning wineries are featuring special offers that are sure to make your tastebuds sing and bring a little extra romance to your winter getaway!
Discover Red Wine & Chocolate.
Book Your Romantic Getaway at Mountain View Lodge
Mountain View Lodge is located right in the heart of downtown Manson, with proximity to a variety of red wine and chocolate tastings across Manson’s many boutique wineries and just a short drive from historic Chelan.
It’s the perfect space to make your home base while you explore all the charm our valley has to offer during Red Wine & Chocolate!Book online or give us a call today to book your stay in the Lake Chelan Valley. We look forward to hosting you!