If you’ve ever wondered about the true journey of chocolate, there’s no better place to explore it than at Wisner Chocolates in San Antonio, Paraguay! More than just a place where chocolate is made, Wisner factory offers an immersive experience that brings visitors right into the heart of chocolate production, allowing them to see, taste, and even participate in the process.
The Story Behind Wisner Chocolates
Wisner journey began in 2019, when José and his wife decided to start a business after the arrival of their child. With a background in accounting, José wanted to create something unique. In the midst of the pandemic in 2020, the couple discovered a documentary on Argentine television about chocolate production using premium cacao beans from Ecuador and Italy. Intrigued by the idea of chocolate-making, José started researching and found that countries like Ecuador, Colombia, and Costa Rica produced some of the best cacao beans in the world.
After extensive research and even a trip to Colombia where he learned the chocolate-making process from a local family, José brought back thirty kilograms of chocolate to test out in his own home. He began experimenting and refining the process in his small apartment, eventually creating a product that was of high quality and unlike anything else in Paraguay. In 2021, Wisner Chocolates officially opened its doors to the public, offering not only their delicious products but also a chance to see how it’s made.
The Wisner Difference
Wisner factory isn’t just about producing chocolate — it is about creating an experience. The factory’s intimate and welcoming atmosphere means that visitors can engage with expert chocolatiers, ask questions, and gain insights into the art of chocolate making. It’s a far cry from the impersonal, mass-production factories, offering a more personal and enriching visit.
José’s passion for chocolate-making is palpable. The factory is a testament to his dedication to producing chocolate that stands out not only in Paraguay but internationally. The beans they use are sourced exclusively from Colombia, forging a close relationship with local producers to ensure the highest quality. Visitors are invited to learn about the origins of these beans and how they impact the flavors of the final product.
Plan Your Visit to Wisner’s Chocolates
To ensure you get the full experience, it’s important to plan your visit in advance. Wisner factory tours are available on Saturdays and Sundays at four time slots: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM. Because of the high demand, reservations are required, and spots fill up fast. You can easily book your visit through the link in Wisner Chocolate’s Instagram bio or by contacting the factory directly at +595 186 799 9774.
While many chocolate lovers in Paraguay are familiar with Wisner products, visiting the factory gives you a chance to connect with the brand on a deeper level. You’ll walk away with more than just a taste of fine chocolate – you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the craft and the journey of cacao.
What to expect from a tour of Wisner’s Chocolate Factory
When you visit the factory, you’ll embark on a sensory adventure:
The Chocolate-Making Process
You’ll see how raw cacao beans are transformed into smooth, delicious chocolate. From fermentation and drying to roasting and tempering, the factory tour covers each essential step of the journey.
Tasting Experience
One of the highlights of the visit is the chocolate tasting. You’ll have the opportunity to try various chocolates, each with different cacao percentages, from the creamy 37% milk chocolate to the bold and rich 100% pure cacao. This tasting helps you understand the differences in flavor and the complexities of cacao profiles.
Cacao Tasting
Before the chocolate is even made, you’ll taste raw cacao nibs, giving you an authentic sense of the transformation process and allowing you to appreciate the journey from bitter cacao bean to the sweet chocolate you love.
A Range of Delectable Chocolate Options
If you’re wondering about the chocolate itself, Wisner offers a variety of chocolate options to suit all tastes. Whether you prefer the intense richness of 100% cacao or the more mellow sweetness of milk chocolate, there’s something for everyone. Some of the standout varieties include:
- 100% Pure Cacao: For the serious chocolate lovers, this bar is as pure as it gets – no sugar, no additives. Just the raw, rich taste of cacao.
- 85% Dark Chocolate: This intense, slightly bitter chocolate is perfect for those who love a more complex flavor.
- Milk Chocolate (37% cacao): Creamy and smooth, this is the perfect option for those who enjoy a sweeter, milder taste.
For those looking for a special treat, the factory also offers a range of limited-edition chocolates that can only be purchased at the factory or at their stand in Shopping Mariscal López.
Why Wisner Chocolates’ Factory Is a Must-Visit
If you’re a fan of chocolate, or simply looking for a fun and unique way to spend your weekend, Wisner chocolate factory is the place to be! It’s not just about tasting chocolate; it’s about experiencing the passion, dedication, and expertise that goes into every single bar; an adventure into the world of chocolate like you’ve never experienced before!
The Asunción Times has also been assured that there is no risk of turning into a giant blueberry or shrunk to a tiny size – not at this chocolate factory!
While being in San Antonio, you can visit the many museums the area has to offer, such as museums in nearby Ypané, Ñemby, and other cities around. The Museo Ytororó in Ypané and the Museo Municipal Don José Domingo Medina in Villa Elisa are interesting places to visit.
