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Discover the SPAGnVOLA Factory Tour & Chocolate Making Class

At SPAGnVOLA Chocolatier in Gaithersburg, MD, you can immerse yourself in both the science and art of chocolate. The experience begins with a factory tour through their “Truffle Factory,” where you’ll explore how cacao beans are roasted, refined, winnowed, and turned into premium chocolate. You’ll learn about SPAGnVOLA’s estate farms in the Dominican Republic, their sustainable practices, and the unique equipment and methods behind their single-estate chocolates.

Then, in the Chocolate Making 101 class, you’ll move from observer to creator: led by the Head Chocolatier, you’ll temper chocolate on a granite slab, craft ganache, dip or mold your own truffles, and enjoy exclusive tastings. You’ll leave not only with freshly made treats but a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance of temperature, humidity, and technique that defines artisan chocolate.

Every step — from bean to bonbon — is woven with storytelling about chocolate origins, flavor development, and SPAGnVOLA’s mission to elevate cacao craft in the U.S.

History/Story of SPAGnVOLA Chocolatier

SPAGnVOLA is Maryland’s boutique artisan chocolatier, sourcing cacao from their own farms in the Dominican Republic and meticulously crafting small-batch chocolate. They position themselves as the only premium chocolate manufacturer in Maryland, DC, and Virginia that controls the whole process from plantation through finished bonbons. The factory and boutique in Gaithersburg serve as both production site and visitor destination, offering tours and classes that connect consumers with the origin and craft behind luxury chocolate.

What You’ll See & Do at SPAGnVOLA

Walk through the Truffle Factory, observing cacao roasting, grinding, refining and molding.
Trace SPAGnVOLA’s cacao heritage and farm-to-bar philosophy.
Participate in the Chocolate Making 101 class: tempering, ganache preparation, truffle dipping, and flavor pairing.
Sample signature chocolate and bonbons made during the session.
Visit the boutique to purchase artisan bars, confections, and gifts.
Engage in chocolate education: flavor notes, bean origins, and sustainability practices.

Hands-On Elements: Chocolate tempering, truffle crafting, interactive tastings, and class-led techniques.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography generally allowed in visitor and boutique areas; production floor segments may have restrictions.

Souvenirs & Extras: Boutique with exclusive single-estate bars, truffles, and gift items; special events and private group classes.

Pricing of SPAGnVOLA Tour & Class

Chocolate Making 101 class: $75 per person
The class is limited in capacity (e.g. first 20 registrants)
Factory tours are offered free (or are included) on certain days.

Practical Info for Visiting SPAGnVOLA

Duration: ~2½ hours for the class (tour portion ~20 minutes + hands-on and tasting)
Format: Combined factory tour + guided hands-on class
Schedule & Seasonality: Chocolate classes and tours available by reservation; free weekend tours 2:00 PM–5:45 PM (weekends)
Audience: Adults, families, school groups, chocolate enthusiasts
Accessibility: Some areas of the factory are not wheelchair or stroller accessible
Safety & Restrictions: Wear closed-toe shoes; small group sizes for safety and spacing
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Private classes and educational field trip options; contact ahead to reserve

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, appetite to sample chocolate
Facilities: Restrooms, boutique, reserved class space, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Tours or classes may be canceled due to production or events; check schedule in advance

Location & Booking for SPAGnVOLA Factory Tour

Getting There: Free parking available behind shops; located in Kentlands shopping area
Booking: Reserve classes and tours online (spot limitations apply)
Cancellation & Refunds: No refunds for no-shows; 48-hr notice required for class credit
On-Site Extras: Boutique, tasting bar, special events, private group bookings

Nearby

Kentlands historic area
Gaithersburg C&O Canal Historic Park
Local Maryland farms and produce markets

FAQs About Visiting SPAGnVOLA

Do I always see chocolate production during a visit?
Yes — the factory tour is part of the class or scheduled free tours, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes view of chocolate production from bean to bar.

How early should I book a class or tour?
Classes are limited and often sell out; book at least a week in advance—free tours on weekends also fill quickly.

Is the factory wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Not fully—some production areas have stairs and tight spaces; staff may offer assistance or alternate viewing arrangements.

Can children participate in the class?
Yes, children are welcome, although the class involves equipment and techniques that require careful supervision. Age suitability depends on maturity and attention span.

Will I go home with chocolate I make?
Yes! Participants typically take home the truffles, ganache, or chocolates they create in the class.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Just your enthusiasm and closed-toe shoes. All tools and ingredients are provided.

What if the class is canceled?
For class cancellations or changes, SPAGnVOLA offers credit toward a future class; check their policies at time of booking.