Let's go bean-to-bar.
In this episode of Cidiot,® Mat Zucker dives into the world of world-class indulgence right here in the Hudson Valley.
Joining the show is Bryan Graham, the award-winning chocolatier and co-founder of Fruition Chocolate Works.
From his roots in the Catskills to the kitchens of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Bryan shares his journey of building a bean-to-bar empire. We talk about the "American craft chocolate movement," why milk chocolate is making a massive comeback, and the surprising truth about where those cacao beans actually come from.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The Fruit Factor: Why your favorite chocolate bar actually starts as a tropical fruit seed.
- Local Collaborations: How Fruition incorporates Hudson Valley flavors, from West Wind Orchard raspberries to Tuthilltown Distillery bourbon.
- The Tasting Notes: What to look for in a high-quality bar (and why "cocoa" vs. "cacao" isn't as scary as it sounds).
- Inside the Shop: The scoop on Fruition’s locations in Shokan, Poughkeepsie, and their new pop-up in Cambridge, MA.
Whether you're a dark chocolate purist or a fan of "adult chocolate milk," this episode is a sweet celebration of local craft.
Special Offer for Cidiot Listeners
Fruition Chocolate Works is offering 20% off for the Cidiot community! Use code CIDIOT20 at checkout.
- Shop Online: Fruition Chocolate Works
- In-Person: Visit the retail stores in Shokan (Route 28), Poughkeepsie (Eastdale Village), or the pop-up on 1316 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge, MA. (Limit one use per customer. Valid online and in-store. For a limited time.)
Links & Resources:
- Fruition Chocolate Works: fruitionchocolate.com
- Alleyway Ice Cream: Mentioned in the episode for their local collaboration - https://alleywayicecream.com/
- Stockade Tavern: Home of the legendary (and exclusive) Jalapeno Corn Nut snack - https://www.stockadetavern.com/
Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe to Cidiot on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocketcasts, or Goodpods and leave us a review!
Special thanks to guest editor Brett Barry of Silver Hollow Audio, and host of Kaatscast: The Catskills Podcast.
©2026 Mat Zucker Communications. Cidiot® is a registered trademark.
