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This Is Calistoga

This Is Calistoga: Holly Peterson, Flourish Chocolate

Holly Peterson, Chef/Owner and Chocolatier of Calistoga’s Flourish Chocolate was born and raised in the Napa Valley and in 2015, opened Flourish Chocolate (although she would tell her younger self to open it sooner!). The tiny, jewel box shop is tucked away on Wappo Avenue and produces exquisite chocolates handcrafted in small quantities.

Holly’s work is the product of years of studies and worldly experiences in France, beginning with her training at the Ecole de Cuisine la Varenne in Paris. She is passionate about food and entertaining and loves all things French, which shows in everything she does. Flourish Chocolate’s signature treats are made from special reserve cocoa beans and comprised of pure and simple ingredients that are both organic and fair trade. Each chocolate is hand-made and hand-painted by Holly herself.

Drawn to Calistoga 25 years ago because of the people and friendly, united community, Holly’s love of this town shines through when she speaks about it, “Calistoga is a unique spa town and a town of hospitality. We are small and farther up valley, so when visitors come to Calistoga, it is because they seek us out”, states Holly. Calistoga is also known for its easy access to the outdoors, which is perfect for Holly since her recipe for relaxation includes either a hike, swim, bike ride or time on a horse, her first love.  

What is a must have purchase in Flourish Chocolate, you may ask? “The Robin’s Egg chocolates,” Holly told Visit Calistoga.  With 9-different flavors to choose from, each chocolate shell is filled with luscious ganache made with fresh ingredients that also happen to be cancer fighting foods. “Flourish Chocolate donates 10% from these sales to cancer research in the area of food” Holly explains further. Thank you for your contribution to important research, Flourish Chocolate!

This Is Calistoga is our new blog series profiling our members, their stories and life in Calistoga. Check in regularly and follow along.