Chocolate and Wine paired well at the Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival

IMG_1793

The 19th Annual Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival took place recently in Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco, and the event did not lack for that key ingredient: chocolate! But it also included other interesting contributions, such as a fantastic assortment of California wines (and even beer).

In addition to the tasting, there were also presentations and activities, Ghirardelli Chocolate Earthquake Ice Cream Eating ContestChocolate School- “From Cocoa Bean to Chocolate Bar”, and Chef Demonstrations.

As always, a portion of the event’s proceeds were contributed to the non-profit, Project Open Hand. Project Open Hand, a local organization that provides meals to the homebound critically ill, senior citizens, and those living with HIV/AIDS. Last year, festival proceeds raised more than $90,000 for this cause.

IMG_1829

Spicy Vines

IMG_6647

Marich Chocolates

IMG_1773

Sharona’s Chocolate Shop

IMG_1772

Rainforest Cafe

IMG_6656

A chocolate message in a bottle? No…in a Govino wine glass

IMG_6643 IMG_6642 IMG_6645 IMG_6650 IMG_6614

IMG_1801

IMG_1837

GudFud Stuffed Marshmallows

IMG_1830

“Cupcake Wars” winner, Frost Cupcake Factory

IMG_6644