Set against the striking rural landscape of Spring Green, Wisconsin, the "Chocolates and the World of Cacao Workshop" offers a rare opportunity to explore both the craft of chocolate making and the historic legacy of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin estate. This immersive two-night experience invites chocolate aficionados and curious adventurers alike to dive deep into the world of cacao with renowned chocolatier Gail Ambrosius, whose acclaimed work has earned recognition from Martha Stewart Living, Bon Appetit, and the Food Network.
The workshop unfolds within the inspiring spaces of Taliesin, a landmark that blends architecture, art, and nature in ways uniquely American. Frank Lloyd Wright designed Taliesin to harmonize with its surroundings, and visitors can feel this ethos as they navigate the hilly terrain and terraced gravel paths of the estate. From the moment you arrive at the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center—your home base for instruction and dining—you’ll gain a tangible sense of this place’s historic weight and creative spirit.
Over three days, participants will learn the craft and science of chocolate: from tasting techniques that engage every sense to hands-on sessions in bonbon and dessert creation. Gail Ambrosius, who studied chocolate making extensively in France and the U.S., guides you carefully through the nuances of flavor development and chocolate formulation. By the end, you’ll leave not only with new skills but with some of your own crafted chocolates to savor or share.
Accommodations are rustic yet comfortable, located within Taliesin Fellowship dwellings across the property. Shared bathrooms and kitchenette access complement the authentic atmosphere, encouraging connection among participants in a setting that emphasizes the link between people, architecture, and land—a guiding principle of Taliesin Preservation.
Beyond the workshop, Spring Green offers enriched cultural experiences and a welcoming small-town environment to explore. The estate itself is a historic gem recognized by UNESCO, making this a unique blend of culinary adventure and architectural pilgrimage.
This workshop is designed for adults 18 and older, requiring mobility over uneven paths and stairs without handrails; potential participants should contact the organizers regarding accessibility concerns. Meals—breakfast and lunch—are provided on-site, while evenings offer the opportunity to sample local artisanal fare independently.
Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiast, or an outdoor adventurer seeking an extraordinary blend of food, culture, and history, this workshop provides a singular experience. Immerse yourself in chocolate artistry amid architectural innovation at one of the Midwest’s most captivating destinations.