Kaiser Maximilian and XocoDiva: Pairing Mexican Wines And Tequilas With Chocolate

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - A perfect marriage is difficult to find: but the liaison between chocolate and wine is a union made in heaven. The Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Canada Chapter members, found out just how lovely this combination can be while visiting our beautiful city on the Bay of Banderas.

During mid-October 2012 around 15 SATW journalists attended a seminar which addressed pairing great Mexican wines and tequilas with chocolates. The event was hosted by Kaiser Maximilian Restaurant and XocoDiva Artisan Chocolates.

"I knew a little about Mexican wines," says Gary Cralle, a freelance writer from Georgetown, Ontario, "The pairing of tequila with chocolate was a pleasant surprise. I consider a good tequila to be like a good single malt scotch; it is perfect for an after dinner drink. When accompanied by chocolate it really enhances the experience."

Gary also discovered that the oldest winery in North America is located in Parras de la Fuente, a small town in the northern Mexico state of Coahuila. And, since the origins of chocolate can be traced back to the Mayans and Aztecs of Mexico, this combination truly represented the country.

Mr. Cralle thought it was great to promote the history of both in a unique tasting event.

"I thought it was great to expose the writers to the food and beverage diversity of Mexico," says Andreas Rupprechter, owner of Kaiser Maximilian restaurant, "There is so much more to the cuisine of this country than tacos and beer."

The event lasted about 90 minutes and the writers were treated to several great taste combinations as well as a light lunch.

The Canadian journalists experienced a number of unique activities in the Puerto Vallarta area during the five day conference.

Open Monday-Saturday from 8 am to 11 pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Kaiser Maximilian Restaurant & Cafe is located at Olas Altas #38B in the Zona Romántica of Puerto Vallarta. For reservations call (322) 223-0760 or visit KaiserMaximilian.com

Click HERE to read more about Kaiser Maximilian.

Xocodiva Artisan Chocolates are handcrafted daily in small batches using only the finest ingredients available. Each chocolate is then uniquely enrobed in premium chocolate. Your choice of truffles include candied ginger, coconut, tequila, chili and amaretto among so many more. You'll also find a wide variety of gourmet nuts, bars and other tasty treats. Located at Ródolfo Gomez #118, across from the San Marino Hotel on the south side of Puerto Vallarta, Xocodiva is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm. Tel: (322) 113-0352.