Inside Hershey

Is this the end of the line for Schmidt Truffles?

This Easter will be the final season for Joseph Schmidt Confections, according to an article in the San Francisco Chronicle yesterday.

The Schmidt line is owned by The Hershey Company via its Artisan Confections Company subsidiary. Hershey had announced the closing of the Schmidt facility in San Francisco just a few weeks ago.

I had noticed recently that Schmidt truffles and gift boxes were no longer available at Hershey's Chocolate World and feared the worst. The Joseph Schmidt site seems to be fully up and running, with no announcement of any kind; indeed, it features current Valentine confections that may be ordered online. If you're a Joseph Schmidt fan, as I am, you may want to place an order just for old time's sake.

Artisan Confections Changes

The Hershey Company announced yesterday that it will close the West Coast production facilities for its Joseph Schmidt and Scharffen Berger lines.

Joseph Schmidt and Scharffen Berger are two components of Hershey's Artisan Confections Co., a subsidiary specializing in premium chocolates. Dagoba Organic Chocolate of Ashland, Oregon also produces high-end chocolate under the Artisan Confections umbrella. Hershey acquired both the Schmidt and Scharffen Berger companies in 2005.

Sadly, jobs will be affected — reportedly, 150 jobs will be affected in this move to consolidate production and cut costs.

Immerse Yourself: Chocolate-Covered February

February is Hershey's secret season. No, Hersheypark isn't open. Visitor counts are low. We're a little short on hours of daylight.

But that makes February one of the best months to visit! You can get into some great restaurants without a wait, there's an impressive new museum to explore, the trees are often covered in snow or frost at the Hershey Gardens (half-price admission and the makings for some awesome wintry photographs!) and last, but not least -- you can hit some Chocolate-Covered February events!

Chocolate-Covered February is in its fifth year, and it's not just some random tourist bureau "event." There are some outstanding special chocolate-themed meals, seminars and treats around town in February. Whether you'd like to take in a $55 chocolate and cognac pairing with dessert buffet or you want to take the kids to Hershey's Chocolate World for free samples after the ride, there's something for every age and every budget. Guest chefs and notables often appear during the month to offer their expertise as well -- and it's a real treat to watch Joseph Schmidt or John Scharffenberger talk about their passion for chocolate, or to enjoy a meal of Alison Barshak's inspired creations.

So check out the event list and choose a few. Don't forget that many events require pre-registration. And immerse yourself in Chocolate-Covered February.

Happy Easter!

A few of these cute Joseph Schmidt Bunny Truffles are still available at Hershey's Chocolate World if you need a last-minute basket filler or hostess gift. Or a gift for yourself. I'm just sayin'.