The chocolate making demonstration at the Krohn Conservatory is a favorite annual event. It features Paul Picton, who traveled around the world as an engineer for many years; always returning home to his wife Marlene with new and interesting chocolate. The more chocolate they tried, the more interested they became in how chocolate was grown and made.

When Paul retired in 2013, he and Marlene finished eating their chocolate collection. As they sat and talked at their kitchen island, they decided to make their own world-class chocolate right here in Cincinnati. After transforming their kitchen into a chocolate factory, they invited friends over for a number of tastings. Everyone was impressed and the demand for their homemade chocolate grew.

They decided to take the leap and started Maverick Chocolate Company. Their first shop opened in 2014 at Findlay Market in Cincinnati, Ohio. Then, in 2018, they opened a second location at Rookwood Commons in Cincinnati. Using only ethically sourced cacao beans, they hand craft their chocolate in small batches from bean to the finished bar. Visitors to the Krohn Conservatory are encouraged to watch his chocolate making demonstration and taste a sample.