Looking for something besides that usual drugstore box of chocolates for your valentine? Why not hit the road and visit one of these fine Texas chocolatiers and let your sweetheart pick out their own box of chocolates.

COCOAMODA 518 South Main St., Calvert – Located in the historic town of Calvert, in Robertson County, European trained chef and chocolatier extraordinaire Ken Wilkinson is helping to indulge the chocolate lovers of Texas and beyond.

Founded in 1868 the city of Calvert became the fourth largest city in Texas by the end of the 19th century. After the Civil War the railroad and cotton came to Calvert and along with them came money. Wealthy plantation owners and business folks built beautiful Victorian homes, as well as hotels, theaters, opera houses and other enterprises. Calvert was indeed at one time a thriving center of prosperity. Present day downtown Calvert has been transformed into a beautifully preserved historic district.

It was just this type of historic setting Wilkinson was looking for to start his gourmet chocolate boutique and restaurant. Centrally located between Houston, Dallas and San Antonio, Cocoamoda draws chocolate lovers from far and wide. Wilkinson spent years renovating two of Calvert’s magnificent old 19th century buildings on Main Street to house his restaurant and chocolate boutique. Decadent truffles, candied fruits, and gelees, are made fresh daily in the factory. Visitors can watch as these delectable morsels of chocolate heaven are created.

While in Calvert you can pick up a self-guided driving tour map from local merchants and visit the local landmarks, as well as antique shops and stores. Two B & B’s are available for overnight stays; Annie Mae’s B & B or the Pin Oak B & B. Visit the Calvert Chamber of Commerce website at www.calverttx.com for additional information.

Wiseman House Fine Handmade Chocolates 106 South Pecan St. Hico–Award winning chocolatier Kevin Wenzel and wife Ladonne started their small gourmet chocolate business in the little town of Hico in 1996. The Wenzels import only the finest chocolate from locations such as Belgium and Venezuela. This rich, flavorful chocolate is combined with fresh cream, fruits, nuts, and natural flavors to make the Wiseman House gourmet chocolates.

Choose from decadent truffles, toffee, nut clusters, almond bark, mocha crunch, and more. To give you an idea how special these chocolates are the Wiseman House chocolate truffles were singled out and served at the Texas Presidential Inaugural Ball. The serious chocolate lover may even want to indulge in an artisnal chocolate making class held occasionally by the Wenzels.

In addition to fine chocolates, Ladonne Wenzel has taken her passion for fashion and opened her own women’s apparel boutique in Hico called Bliss Living. Located inside a historic bank building Bliss Living specializes in unique clothing, home décor, jewelry and accessories. Inside the boutique you’ll also find a special glassed-in production area where you can watch as the Wiseman House Chocolates are being made.

If you can’t make the trip to either Cocoamoda or Wiseman House Chocolates retail locations in person, don’t despair, you can still get your sweetheart that special box of chocolates by ordering online at: www.cocoamoda.com or www.wisemanhousechocolates.com.