Need some last minute gift ideas that will make you look thoughtful, adventurous and tasteful? Plus you don’t have to go out of town to pick up the goodies, and no supply chain issues. Give them the gift of an at-home Chocolate Pairing Adventure!
A Philomath duo
Compton Family Wines 2016 Llewellyn Cuvee Pinot Noir ($34) with Moku Chocolate’s single origin Peru bar or Ecuador bar (around $7).
During a recent pairing at the Winery, wine lovers decided on these two bars as their favorites. Both are available at Compton Winery 810 Applegate St, Philomath, Market of Choice, or at First Alternative Co-Op.
A charitable, caramel couple
4 Spirits Bourbon Whiskey ($29.99, 10% of proceeds are donated to local veteran reintegration programs) and Endangered Species’ Caramel Sea Salt + Dark Chocolate (10% of net profits are donated to save wildlife).
The warm caramel notes of the bourbon are sure to be enhanced by the caramel that oozes from the bar. 4 Spirits liquors available at their distillery, 3405 SW Deschutes St, Corvallis, or Cork & Bottle Shoppe on NW 9th. Endangered Species (about $3.49) is available at Safeway, Market of Choice, Natural Grocers or First Alternative Co-Op.
The two beans
Tried & True’s locally roasted coffee blends ($16 -$21) and Seahorse Chocolates made in Bend.
Did you know that coffee and chocolate have tons in common? From where they’re grown to how they’re processed, they make perfect partners in all varieties. Buy all four flavors of the perfect bite size single-origin chocolate ($4 each) treats and discover which one you like best with your caffeinated brew. Alternatively, full size bars are available at Market of Choice.
B- squared 
Beer & Burst! Block 15 special brew Specular Reflections, a Belgian-style Dubbel (dark ale, $3.25 per can, plus deposit available at their locations) with Burst Chocolate’s truffles.
The staff at Burst recommends the straightforward dark chocolate and milk chocolate truffles to enhance, not compete with, the bold flavors of the brews. Burst Candies, 353 SW Madison Ave, Corvallis. Block 15 Brewing, 300 SW Jefferson or 3415 SE Deschutes St.
C&C
Cider and chocolate. 2 Towns Marionberry Hard Cider with chocolate ice cream. Check out Sugar J’s luscious boozy floats (about $8.50 for this combination.)
Why not get a gift card for a date night treat?. The way the chocolate brings out the berry flavors of the hard cider is surprising, any time of year! Want to DIY? Go to Winco and buy a 16.9 oz bottle ($4.58) and pair with Tillamook Chocolate Fudge Brownie or Umqua Brownie Thunder ice cream (each under $6/15 oz). Wrap and hide in the fridge & freezer!
Small batch pair 
Teremana Reposado Small Batch Tequila ($34.99 known because the founder is celebrity Duane Johnson “The Rock”) and Lillie Belles’ International Award Winner Lavender Sea Salt Caramels ($8-$24 for boxes of 4-12 bon bons).
Savor the vanilla, citrus and caramel notes brought out when you pair these foods of the gods. Cork & Bottle on 9th has Teremana and a good selection of tasty tequilas. Market of Choice carries Lillie Belles which are made in Central Point, OR.
By Stacey Newman Weldon, Chocolate Adventure Mentor
Do you have a story for The Advocate? Email editor@corvallisadvocate.com