Guittard Chocolate Company is one of only ten chocolate makers in the US, and one of few that works directly with growers, long before harvest. An expert team at Guittard travels the world, working closely with growers to assess the development of individual crops and to oversee the fermentation and drying process of the cacao beans. Whether working with the bold and traditional, or the unique flavors and characteristics of rare heirloom varieties, Gary is constantly searching for that elusive blend or single origin bean from which to develop a whole new and exciting chocolate experience.
The painstaking process of transforming the dried cacao beans into an American treasure is done in Guittard's Burlingame facility, where cherished recipes and techniques, handed down from generation to generation for over 135 years, are still in use. From French roasting, to stone grinding, to conching formulas developed by great grandfather, Etienne, Guittard Chocolate Company's superbly crafted artisan chocolate can only come from the expertise and inspiration of a family-run business intent on continuing its long and distinguished legacy.