The Story of Chesapeake Chocolates, Wine, Gifts and More

Chesapeake Chocolates, Inc. was founded in 1998 by Herndon sisters-in-law interested in producing delicious, handmade chocolates. After training with chocolatiers in Massachusetts and learning the craft, Doris and Bernadette opened Chesapeake Chocolates. They based the name of their new business on their ties to the Chesapeake Bay. Family from both the eastern and western shores, including Crisfield, Maryland, kept both close to Bay water.
Doris and Bernadette refined their recipes, making truffles, barks, butter crunch, and the distinctive bushel of crabs, along with many other dipped and molded chocolates. They sold their fine chocolates at fairs and festivals, as well as through their website, and developed a devoted following. In 2005, Bernadette relocated from Northern Virginia and handed the business over to Doris.
In 2007, Linda of Lake Anne Florist relocated her shop back to Lake Anne Plaza and invited Doris to join her, where together they sold chocolate, flowers, and wine. On historic Lake Anne, Doris continued to expand her selection of chocolates and gifts. In 2015, Linda retired and Doris remodeled the shop, adding new products, and becoming Chesapeake Chocolates,Wine, Gifts, and More.

Chesapeake Chocolates, Wine, Gifts and More!

Doris continues to make fine chocolates, adding new recipes that join old favorites. Salted caramels, Sue’s Chews with caramel and macadamia nuts, and bipartisan bark fill the trays along with favorites such as peanut butter bites, truffles, and toffee bark. Musical shapes, sports shapes, and nautical shapes are just some of the molded chocolates you’ll find. Children (and adults) enjoy the chocolate dipped marshmallows covered in sprinkles and chocolate dipped Oreo cookies. And if you’re lucky, Doris may have made some fresh dusted truffles early in the day or some spicy drinking chocolate flavored with orange peel and jalapeno pepper.
Chesapeake Chocolates… Wine, Gifts, and More now becomes a destination for gifts and gourmet treats. Located on the historic Lake Anne Plaza in Reston, just steps away from “Bronze Bob” customers can take a relaxing break while shopping for regional and local products, including pottery, peanuts, jewelry and Reston-made soaps. We also feature a wide selection of wines only from Virginia vineyards and wineries and most white and rose are available chilled. Join us for our free monthly tastings which are local social events. Look for wine tastings and other events on the Chesapeake Chocolates Facebook page as well as the Virginia Wines section of the website.
With gift baskets including any and all of these products, you can create a custom treat for a hostess, friend, or co-worker that celebrates Reston and the Chesapeake watershed.
Visit Chesapeake Chocolates,Wine, Gifts, and More, taste some chocolate, view the scenery, and treat yourself to a relaxing shopping experience on historic Lake Anne in Reston, Virginia.

Located on historic Lake Anne Plaza

Reston’s Lake Anne Plaza is home to a unique group of independently owned retail and dining establishments, as well as a museum, art gallery and the Reston Community Center. Come shop and dine outside overlooking the lake, take in free summer concerts Thursday evenings, or visit Saturdays when the plaza hosts the famous Farmer’s & Crafter’s Markets. A complete calendar of activities can be found at http://lakeanneplaza.com…Chesapeake Chocolates, Wine, Gifts and More is proud to part of this wonderful, vibrant community!