Out-of-towners often forget that Portland, Ore. is surrounded and all-but-consumed by evergreen forests. We revere our tall pines and muddy hikes, foggy mornings gripped by woodland mystique. You enter into these spaces for adventure, solace, or perhaps just a bit of fresh air. Whatever reason you find yourself on a Pacific Northwest forest excursion, it’s likely to transform your state of mind and stir up the desire to keep coming back to this awe inspiring natural place. The Wildwood Trail is a scant 31 mile hike in the 5,200 acre Forest Park nature reserve on the northwest side of Portland’s city limits. The trail begins near the Oregon Vietnam Veterans Memorial and ends, after many switchbacks and elevation gains and... Read more
In the world of nuts, there is a kind that stands out for its unique taste, texture, and versatility - the Marcona almond. This almond variety comes from Spain and has gained popularity among chefs and food lovers for its distinct flavor and culinary adaptability. What makes Marcona almonds different from other almonds? Firstly, their shape and texture are distinctive compared to traditional almonds. They are shorter, rounder, and have a plumper appearance. Their texture is softer and buttery while still crunchy, making them a delight to eat. In terms of taste, their natural sweetness and buttery flavor make Marcona almonds a perfect match for chocolate's richness. They also create a delightful textural contrast, thanks to their creamier texture. Their... Read more
Wildwood launched a new chocolate bar in the fall of 2022 and received a resounding question: What is yuzu? Our Yuzu and Roasted Brown Rice chocolate bar features a beloved and distinct east asian citrus, yuzu. Yuzu is a sour and tangy fruit that tastes somewhat similar to grapefruit yet is loosely related to the mandarin orange. Tart and aromatic, yuzu is not typically eaten on its own but rather incorporated into cuisine much like lemon. Yuzu can be readily found in Japanese ponzu sauce, marmalade, cake, tea, and in use as a culinary garnish. WildwoodⓇ Chocolate sources small farm Japanese grown candied yuzu - a sugar-coated variety of yuzu zest that marries sour with sweet - and couples it... Read more
The Oregon Chocolate Festival is a highly anticipated annual celebration of all things chocolate, held in the charming city of Ashland, Oregon. Renowned for its vibrant arts scene and proximity to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland provides the perfect backdrop for this indulgent event. Typically taking place over a weekend in March, the festival attracts chocolate lovers from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, offering a delightful blend of culinary artistry, community spirit, and sweet indulgence. At the heart of the festival is the showcase of exceptional chocolate creations by artisanal chocolatiers and confectioners. Attendees have the chance to sample a wide variety of treats, including handmade truffles, decadent cakes, chocolate-covered fruits, and inventive creations that highlight the versatility of... Read more
