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Desir 64% Cocoa: nougatine, hand-filled with dark Peruvian chocolate ganache, enrobed with dark chocolate.

Featured Article

The Leesburg Gourmet Has You Covered for Valentine's Day

Article by Hann Livingston

Photography by David Mercado

Originally published in Leesburg Lifestyle

When Mike Carroll retired in October 2019 after 3 decades as The Leesburg Vintner on the corner of Loudoun and King Street in Historic Leesburg, David Mercado answered the call of many customers who urged him to pair the Neuhaus Belgian Chocolates at his Art Sweet Art Gallery with select wines from around the world. Much hard work and an ABC license later, the pairings are a reality, and The Leesburg Gourmet is expected to open in time for Valentine's Day at the same fabled corner occupied by David’s friend and mentor.

David opened Art Sweet Art in April 2017 on Loudoun Street as an art gallery and music space. The venue has supported fine arts while offering beautiful chocolates and regular musical performances. Now, moving into select wines and beers plus cheeses, infused oils and baked delicacies completes a natural progression.

Art Sweet Art will remain as a fine art gallery and event rental space, where he will also host concerts, art classes and wine education sessions with its resident Sommelier, Andy Narusewicz. www.leesburggourmet.com

  • Neuhaus Valentines Boxes hit the spot for loved ones.
  • "Sangria," oil and gold leaf on canvas, by Patricia Taylor-Holz
  • Manon Choco Cafe is white chocolate chocolate praline with Arabica coffee fresh cream.
  • Unnamed abstract, acrylic, by Bill Giarratana
  • Desir 64% Cocoa: nougatine, hand-filled with dark Peruvian chocolate ganache, enrobed with dark chocolate.
  • Pairing select wines with chocolate completes the experience.