Fremont Native Wins International Chocolate Competition

By Susan C. Schena/Patch

Livermore resident Mary Drobshoff, a mom and fitness instructor who launched her own line of organic chocolates two years ago, was a sweet standout at last month's San Francisco Luxury Chocolate Salon winning 13 awards for her confections -- including her signature truffles and balsamic-fig caramels. 

At the international chocolate competition, Drobshoff's company, Cocoa Vida, bested several established candymakers and earned gold medals for Best Organic/Fair Trade and Best Product Award, and seven silver medals including Best Truffle, Most Luxurious Chocolate Experience, Top Toffee and Best Caramels. 

Cocoa Vida confections are made with premium natural and organic ingredients purchased primarily from small family farms that practice pesticide-free, sustainable farming methods, Drobshoff said.   

A Fremont native who graduated from Mission San Jose High School, Drobshoff grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, gardeners and chefs, who favored raw foods, organic ingredients and vegetarian lifestyles.

Once Drobshoff had her three children, she re-embraced her holistic upbringing. 

"When my kids were babies, I was concerned about the impact of sugar and processed foods on my children. And I pretty much went back to my roots," said Drobshoff. Throughout the years, her kids' birthday cakes and holiday treats were all organic, home-baked, handmade -- and tasty.

When her son and two daughters hit adulthood, they suggested their mother turn her knack for creating healthy sweets into a business -- which she did.

Drobshoff now divides her time between jobs at Flex Personal Training & Pilates in Danville and Crunch Fitness in Blackhawk with her growing gourmet chocolate and bakery business that she runs from a commercial kitchen in Livermore. 

Cocoa Vida's candies range from $12 to $40 per box and can be purchased at Double Barrel Wine Bar on First Street in Livermore, or online through Cocoa Vida’s Facebook page here, its web site here or by emailing Drobshoff at mary@cocoavida.com. 

Drobshoff also does custom orders, and is working on expanding her retail outlets and product line. Under development: a vegan marshmallow s'more.

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