By: R. Davis
For generations, chocolate has carried a reputation as a guilty pleasure — a decadent escape more closely tied to indulgence than wellness. But what if the very treat we reach for in moments of comfort could actually support our health? Enter Vine to Bar, a premium dark-chocolate brand blending indulgence with a natural boost that supports gut health. Born in the vineyards of Sonoma County, Vine to Bar is the result of the innovative collaboration between the worlds of wine, wellness, and confectionery. Founded by Peggy Furth and Barbara Banke, two forward-thinkers from California’s wine industry, the company was inspired by a simple question: What happens to all the goodness left behind after pressing Chardonnay grapes for wine?
The answer — and the foundation of Vine to Bar’s innovation — lies in a once-discarded ingredient called Chardonnay Marc. Derived from the skins, seeds, and pulp of Chardonnay grapes, this nutrient-dense byproduct has been transformed into a natural ingredient known as WellVine™. Through a proprietary upcycling process, the grape remnants are dried and milled into a fine powder rich in prebiotic fiber and polyphenols — the same helpful compounds that give wine its antioxidant power.
From Vineyard to Bar: The Science Within
Prebiotics are the unsung heroes of gut health — non-digestible fibers that feed the helpful bacteria living in our intestines. These “good” bacteria support digestion, strengthen immune function, and even influence mood. When infused into cacao, they help create a balance rarely found in confections: an indulgence that’s both delicious and helpful.
A growing body of research — including a research from UC Davis, and studies published in the National Library of Medicine — highlights how prebiotics, similar to those found in WellVine™, can impact gut microbiota composition and digestive function. These studies highlight several key compounds central to Vine to Bar’s innovation:
- Oligosaccharides: Natural fibers that nourish helpful gut bacteria, helping maintain a balanced microbiome.
- Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants that reduce inflammation, support digestive health, and may contribute to improved cardiovascular function.
- A Flavor-Enhancing Property: The subtle fruit and floral notes of WellVine™ lend dark chocolate a smoother, rounder taste — softening cacao’s natural bitterness and elevating the flavor experience.
By incorporating WellVine™ into its 65% dark chocolate, Vine to Bar blends indulgence with intention. “Our mission has been to create a premium chocolate experience that aligns with modern health-conscious consumers,” says Ed Klein, Managing Director of Vine to Bar. “These findings reinforce that chocolate can be both delicious and beneficial.”
Indulgence, Evolved
Many “better-for-you” chocolates on the market use substitutes — such as sugar alcohols, stevia, or synthetic fibers — to enhance flavor and improve nutrition. Vine to Bar took a different approach. By using cacao and whole food ingredients, it offers a clean-label treat that aims to satisfy cravings.
The brand’s growing collection includes standout varieties such as classics like True Dark Dark Chocolate, Almonds and Himalayan Pink Salt, Tart Cherry and Cocoa Nibs and Smoked Salt and Cocoa Nibs.
Each is crafted to highlight the depth of cacao while allowing WellVine™’s subtle Chardonnay essence to shine through. The result? A chocolate that offers a rich taste while fitting comfortably into both a treat and a wellness-focused lifestyle.
Sustainable Indulgence
Equally transformative is Vine to Bar’s commitment to sustainability. By upcycling what would otherwise be agricultural waste, the company turns a byproduct of winemaking into a valuable resource — creating a closed-loop system that reduces waste and retains valuable nutrients within the food cycle.
Each bar, square, and chocolate-covered almond embodies this dual mission of pleasure and purpose. Its indulgence redefined: sustainable, thoughtful, and rooted in California craftsmanship. “The goal was never just to make another chocolate,” says Klein. “It was to make chocolate better — for people, and for the planet.”
A Growing Movement
The launch of Vine to Bar couldn’t have come at a more opportune time. Consumers today are increasingly seeking foods that deliver function as well as flavor. The global “food-as-medicine” trend — including items like kombucha and adaptogenic lattes — reflects a cultural shift toward mindful indulgence. Vine to Bar aligns with the growing interest in combining sustainability and enjoyable flavors.
And while the brand’s origins are proudly rooted in California’s wine country, its impact is resonating far beyond the vineyards. From boutique grocers and wellness retailers to wine tasting rooms and online marketplaces, Vine to Bar is quickly finding its way into the hands (and hearts) of chocolate lovers across the country.
Looking Ahead
As the boundaries between culinary delight and nutritional trends continue to evolve, Vine to Bar represents a new approach to indulgence — where enjoyment and mindful choices come together. Its fusion of vineyard heritage, sustainability, and environmental integrity offers a glimpse into the sweet future of chocolate: one where every bite supports both enjoyment and the planet.
3 Fun Facts About Vine to Bar
- Born from Wine: Each bar starts with real Chardonnay grapes sourced from Sonoma County — giving new purpose to the same fruit used in premium California wines.
- Planet-Friendly Indulgence: Every batch of Vine to Bar chocolate upcycles thousands of pounds of Chardonnay Marc that would otherwise be discarded after harvest.
- Chef-Approved: Well-known chefs have started using Vine to Bar and the Chardonnay Marc for cooking and desserts. You can find a dessert currently at The Matheson.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The content should not be construed as medical, nutritional, or health advice. Individual health needs and responses may vary. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your diet or wellness routine.
