Collaboration is more than just working together; it's about building meaningful relationships. And what better way to connect than through a shared experience that engages the senses and sparks meaningful conversation?

Highlighting Origins: The Language of Scent and Flavor held on May 9, was a sensory experience carnival! Our primary goal for the evening was to close the distance between “expert” and participant- to remove the perceived barriers between the professional taster or “nose” and the layperson through first-hand experience on a level playing field. We invited our frequent collaborators The NA Sommelier and Filigree & Shadow to help us tell a sensory story through fragrance, tea, beverage, and chocolate to demystify the tasting experience and turn participants into makers, blenders, and chocolatiers for the night.

A pickle. Lemon. Vinegar. Just thinking about sour can make your mouth water. But beyond taste, sourness is a lesson in transformation, balance, and preservation—concepts that apply to both food and team dynamics.

A Matter of Taste workshops always spark new ideas and conversations, and our Highlighting Origins: Insight Chocolate tasting event on March 26 deliciously centered chocolate sourcing, growing, and making; with a lively conversation on how we can engage with chocolate and cocoa in ethical and responsible ways.  Our speakers reinforced that cacao is a critical part of regenerative farming and forestry. Tasting sample after sample, participants left the evening with a new appreciation for the richness of the chocolate conversation (and their own set of tasting bars to enjoy with friends!

A Matter of Taste experiences have four courses to go from cold start to ready to fly with new skills, insight and inspiration. Step by step, we go from mindful orientation, guided learning, discovery by doing, and fostering action, whether that’s achieving team successes or embracing a love of excellent chocolate!

A Matter of Taste workshops always spark new ideas and conversations, and our Goals with a Side of Umami workshop last week surfaced goals we all share, like achieving balance, sharpening our sense of self, and connecting more.