Tour Straus Family Creamery

In November we were invited to take a tour of my favorite creamery, Straus Family Creamery near Tomales Bay. Although we didn’t get to see any actual cows, the pasture was too wet, we did get to observe a family-run business and try some of their tasty experimental ice cream flavors!

I was particularly excited as I have been using Straus cream in my truffles since I started my business. It really does make a difference in the taste and texture of the ganache. Most people I talk with know of the Creamery’s ethical reputation and rich history but I’m always willing to educate them if not.

I’m very fortunate to live in a place where I have easy access to such a quality product made by artisans.

Interestingly, I often get questions about the glass bottles. Certainly an unique feature, it also serves a practical function. Glass is inert and produces no off flavors, not to mention that it recyclable and reusable. I pay a $1.50 deposit on each bottle that is refunded when I return the bottles. I’m usually buying more cream at the same time so the deposit is in constant rotation.

Please take a look at some of my pictures of our creamery tour.

SF Holiday Chocolate Show

Chocolate Truffle Stack Winner!

Congratulations to Cristi Tran for winning the Neo Cocoa Chocolate Truffle Stack at The San Francisco Holiday Chocolate Show on November 14, 2009!

A few of our snapshots from the show:

Slicing Sterling Confections

Slicing Sterling Confections

Mindy preparing her festive table.
Mindy preparing her festive table.
Nina sharing her Bonbon Bar.
Nina sharing her Bonbon Bar.
Malena shinning the light on The Xolate Bar.
Malena shinning the light on The Xolate Bar.
Clarine looking fall-ish with her Florentines.
Clarine looking fall-ish with her Florentines.
Socola Sisters
Socola Sisters beautifying Herbst Pavilion
"Admiring" Charles Chocolates Chocolate Box.
“Admiring” Charles Chocolates Chocolate Box.
All sample standing at attention.
All Neo sample standing at attention.
Christine and Neo
Christine and Neo

Please also check out the professional views of the event from Fotki.

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