We are planting the seeds of an abundant future

Who we are

The Great Chestnut Experiment is on a quest to bring the chestnut back into the heart of American culture. We create cozy treats for a forest-first future, with every bite inviting you to step into a world where trees tower, farmers flourish, and the humble chestnut reigns once again.

As we embark on our second season, The Great Chestnut Experiment is weaving together a treasure trove of delights featuring our hero ingredient: gift sets fit for a festive gathering, sweet and savory wonders, and golden, roasted chestnuts by the cone—perfect for keeping hands warm as the days get shorter. You’ll find these treasures at the Bryant Park Holiday Market in New York City as well as our online store.

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An American Story

  • Long ago, the chestnut was a North American staple

    But in 1906, a blight befell the American Chestnut, and by the 1930s, disease had decimated almost every chestnut in North America. The tree and its fruits all but vanished from our landscapes and our kitchens. Today, most chestnuts in the US are imported.

  • We're here to rekindle the story

    Founded by Sasha Sherman and Will Canine, The Great Chestnut Experiment was born out of a shared vision for a resilient, abundant future. By crafting products that honor and celebrate this resilient nut, The Great Chestnut Experiment is reawakening a forgotten tale, one nut at a time.

  • One nut at a time

    As plant breeders cultivate chestnut trees that resist blight, more farmers return to the chestnut’s legacy, planting these trees in regenerative perennial systems. Our mission is to support these farmers and their new forests, bringing the chestnut back to its rightful place in our hearts—and on our tables.