Eric and Cassandra Durtschi's story is like the smoothest dark chocolate—rich, complex, and filled with unexpected layers. From childhood friendships and family ties to a passion for crafting the perfect piece of chocolate, their journey has been a sweet adventure that led them here to Lebanon, where they’ve finally turned their dream into a delicious reality.
The couple’s connection goes way back. Eric, from Watertown, and Cassandra, from Cookeville, grew up just a stone’s throw away from each other, their families close friends for years. They even dated in high school when it was cheaper to drive across town than to talk on the phone. Life carried them in different directions, but fate had a way of bringing them back together in the most serendipitous of ways.
For Eric, chocolate was never a mere treat. It was a way of life. His father worked for Bradley’s Candy Company and later for Russell Stover, so chocolate was always in the house. It was in his blood. After becoming a chiropractor and focusing on nutrition, Eric set out to make chocolate healthier. This led him to develop brewed cacao, a revolutionary product brewed like coffee, which would take him on a journey that spanned the globe.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. A life-changing accident forced Eric to step away from chiropractic work for a while, and in the void, he found his true calling: creating healthy, gourmet chocolate. With Cassandra by his side, they founded Durći Chocolate in 2016, and their creations quickly earned a reputation for excellence, winning international awards and finding a place in gourmet markets across the U.S.
Just as their business began to thrive, tragedy struck, a devastating wildfire in Santa Barbara destroyed their home, inventory, and chocolate-making equipment. It was a heartbreaking blow, but the Durtschis refused to give up. They sold Crio Bru, another cacao product Eric had developed, and set their sights on a fresh start closer to family. In 2022, they returned to Tennessee, a decision that felt like coming full circle.
Just in time for the holidays, Durći Chocolate officially opened its doors here in Lebanon November 2024. The name, a tribute to the Durtschi family’s heritage, reflects their commitment to quality and tradition. Cassandra’s background in event planning and Eric’s unwavering pursuit of chocolate perfection came together to create not just a shop, but an experience—a place where people could taste, learn, and celebrate the art of fine chocolate. Together, with their six children in tow, the Durtschis are crafting not just chocolate, but a legacy of resilience, passion, and family that’s as sweet as it gets. Visit Durći at 1221 S Hartmann Drive, or durcichocolate.com.
Eric and Cassandra Durtschi’s journey from childhood sweethearts to chocolatiers comes full circle here in Lebanon. After setbacks including a wildfire, they return to Tennessee, founding Durći Chocolate—a family business blending tradition, innovation, and the art of fine chocolate.