Blog

As the Crystal Coast prepares to welcome the beloved Carolina Chocolate Festival on February 7–8, 2026, we’re kicking off the festivities early with a decadent new tradition: the 1st Annual North Carolina Brasstown Chocolate & Wine Pairings at the Beaufort Hotel on Thursday, February 5, 2026.

Together, these events create a chocolate‑lover’s dream week in Beaufort, blending artisan craftsmanship, culinary creativity, and community celebration.

Experience a curated tasting featuring three distinctive wines paired with three handcrafted truffles by North Carolina’s Brasstown Chocolate.

Brasstown Craft Chocolate—founded by chocolatiers Rom Still and Barbara Price in Winston‑Salem—is dedicated to producing exceptional artisan chocolate. Their passion for the craft, along with their fascination with the extraordinary range of flavors unlocked through fair‑trade cacao selection and careful roasting, has shaped their journey from bean to bar. Every step, from sourcing to roasting to wrapping, is done with intention and artistry.

Meet Our Guest: Anna Simons
Anna serves as the Regional Manager for North Carolina and South Carolina for the Heritage Collection at Trinchero Family Estates. Along with her CSW certification, she is a Sommelier, an Italian Wine Professional, and holds her WSET Level 3—with plans to continue her wine education. The Heritage Collection represents family‑owned, small‑batch, artisanal wineries from around the world.

Featured Wines & Chocolates

2021 Avissi Prosecco
Paired with Brasstown Strawberry Champagne Truffle

2020 Rossana Dolcetto d’Alba D.O.C.
Paired with Brasstown Chocolate Crème Truffle

2020 Lamùri Nero d’Avola
Paired with Brasstown Salted Caramel Truffle

Each pairing highlights the interplay between bright acidity, velvety tannins, and the layered flavors of artisan chocolate. Guests will also enjoy a celebratory pour with each chocolate and have the chance to purchase featured wines at a special discounted price after the event.

Tickets & Reservations

• $30 per person (plus tax & service charges)
• Includes celebratory pour, three wine selections, and chef‑crafted tastes
• Credit card required for reservations
• Call 252‑838‑7234
• Book online: 34degreesnorthrestaurant.com/wine-club

Much like fine wine, chocolate offers remarkable depth and complexity. Each cacao bean carries its own character, notes, and nuances, making every bite a unique sensory experience. We invite you to savor, explore, and enjoy this special event.

The Carolina Chocolate Festival: A Sweet Beaufort Tradition

Just two days later, the celebration continues at the Carolina Chocolate Festival, held February 7 & 8 at the Crystal Coast Civic Center. This beloved annual event transforms the Crystal Coast into a chocolate playground, offering:

• Chocolate tastings and vendor showcases
• The popular Pro/Am Bake Off
• Cake auctions and pudding‑eating contests
• A festive 5K run/walk
• Activities for families and chocolate fans of all ages

The festival is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, with proceeds supporting local nonprofits—making every bite a little sweeter.

For tickets and details, visit CarolinaChocolateFestival.com.

Make It a Chocolate‑Filled Getaway

Visitors traveling in for the festival can enjoy 20% off room rates with the Beaufort Winter Escape at the Beaufort Hotel.
BeaufortHotelNC.com
252‑728‑3000

A Week to Savor

From elegant wine‑and‑truffle pairings to lively festival fun, chocolate week on the Crystal Coast offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a connoisseur, a casual chocolate fan, or simply looking for a memorable winter escape, February on the Crystal Coast promises indulgence, discovery, and plenty of sweetness.