from the editor
C andy makes me happy. Biting into creamy dark chocolate; sucking on fruity hard candy, gumdrops, French jellies, and strong mints; or chewing toffee, taffy, licorice, and golden caramel is just pure bliss, isn’t it? Confections lift my mood and put a smile on my face.
Some people make a beeline for salty foods. I definitely gravitate toward sweets. I also relish the seasons in which I get to fill my farmers’ market basket full of natural treats, including ripe peaches, blueberries, pears, apples, and mandarins.
Studies show that we are born with a sweet tooth. So perhaps my penchant for sweets is innate. That eases my guilty feelings a bit; I guess I’m not alone. In general, I try to limit sugar-laced snacks, especially since my job entails a lot of eating and drinking. But this time of year I allow myself to indulge a bit.
So just in time for winter’s sweet cravings I want to introduce you to five local families who create delicious, hand-crafted confections. First, meet Joe Dutra, the Willy Wonka of Nevada, who started Kimmie Candy Company. He puts Reno on the map with his global, multi-million-dollar business. Then, meet smaller producers of enticing delicacies such as the Olinger family’s 42-year-old Grandma’s Fudge Factory in Virginia City, Mindy Miller and her two-year-old Gardnerville-based Tahoe Toffee Candy Company, the Salzwimmer family’s 27-year-old Chocolate Nugget Candy Factory in Washoe Valley and Moundhouse, and Karen Brunings’ two-year-old JuJu Z. Treat Company in Truckee.
To continue the sweets theme, learn where to find tasty Mexican baked goods, including the popular holiday treat Rosca de Reyes (King’s Ring). And, in one of our nutrition features, discover healthy sugar alternatives.
Also in this issue, take a look at River School Farm nestled idyllically alongside the Truckee River (which grows food year-round), warm up inside delightful Jack Rabbit Moon restaurant in Incline Village, toast to local winery owners and read about their inspirations, and travel to cozy Sorensen’s Resort in beautiful Hope Valley.
Take the chill out of the cold season with local food and drink. And, in moderation, treat yourself a little.
Enjoy!
Amanda Burden
