IQ Bar - Peanut Butter Chip bar - July 30, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

IQ Bar
Peanut Butter Chip bar
Good+ - Good ++
Weight: 1.6 oz. (45 g.) / 1 Pound, 12.8 oz. (816 g.) in a box of 18 bars
Calories: 160 calories for 1 bar
Cost: $18.49 for box of 18 bars
Purchased from: Costco, Mountain View, CA

Welcome to Day #4 of Chocolate and Peanut Theme Week--a week that includes a variety of chocolates --ranging from ultra-high end bean-to-bar chocolate bars to casual snacks and protein bars.

Today's Peanut Butter Chip bar was made by IQBAR, Inc. (Boston, MA). This bar was part of a larger, 3-flavor, 18-bar variety box.*

Aroma notes for this individually-wrapped bar included: somewhat artificial sweetness, nuttiness (faint peanut), and almost undetectable vegetable protein/starch. The taste and texture were better than the initial aroma.

Texture: This peanut butter-hued protein bar had a relatively soft, very slightly crunchy, chew-- a texture that was interspersed with smooth chocolate chips.

Flavor notes included: light peanut/peanut butter, relatively invisible pea protein crisps, and the occasional flicker of dark chocolate. The pea protein and other additions made this bar more filling and satisfying.

I liked the relatively short and thoughtful list of ingredients; the fact that each bar contained 12 grams of Protein and 3 grams of (Net) Carbs; and that this protein bar didn't taste sugary sweet. I also liked that they called out the Magnesium** levels in their bars. I also liked the use of Stevia (vs. other sweetener alternatives in this particular bar).

Ingredients: "Nuts (Peanuts, Almonds), Prebiotic Blend (Tapioca Fiber, Vegetable Fiber), Protein Blend (Pea Protein Crisps [Pea Protein, Tapioca Starch], Pea Protein), Natural Flavors, Peanut Flour, Coconut Oil, Unsweetened Chocolate, Cocoa, Cocoa Butter, Sea Salt, Lion's Mane, Stevia Plant Extract, Vitamin E"

Allergen-related information: "Allergens: Peanuts, Almonds, Coconut" (Non-GMO Certified, Gluten Free, Vegan and Kosher)

*The two other flavors in this box were Chocolate Sea Salt and Almond Butter Chip.

**Dark chocolate naturally contains relatively significant levels of iron and magnesium -- one of the many reasons why some people crave chocolate. I find it difficult to get all the calcium and magnesium I need; so it was a plus to see the levels listed--15% Daily Value for Magnesium was not bad for this bar; and the amount would be higher for bars higher in dark chocolate. (You might not find this level of detail on some craft chocolate labels.)

To'ak - Alchemy Salprieta Peanuts 65% (bar) - July 29, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

To'ak 
Alchemy Salprieta Peanuts (bar)
Good++ - Good +++
Weight: 2 oz. (56 g.) in total package of 4 smaller bars
Calories: 336 calories in 1 package
Cost: $16.00 (estimate) for 1 bar
Purchased from: To'ak, online order

Welcome to Day #3 of Chocolate and Peanut Theme Week--a week that includes a variety of chocolate and peanut/peanut butter offerings--ranging from ultra-high end bean-to-bar chocolates to casual snacks.

Today's Alchemy Salprieta* Peanuts (bars) were made by To'ak (Tierra & Arbol S.A.S.; Quito, Ecuador). The company started "from a rainforest conservation project in Ecuador and has become"...a global pioneer in the world of "luxury dark chocolate."

Aroma notes included: roasted nuts (peanuts), chili pepper and warm spices (nutmeg, cinnamon, coriander/cilantro), and a very faint, fleeting menthol note that disappeared after re-tasting.

Texture: The flavor inclusions were almost all fully incorporated, leaving just tiny bursts of welcome flavor(s); although there were a few very hard, very tiny light-colored bits. (Corn perhaps?)

Flavor notes included: complex, almost sparkling flavors (like light streaming through a forest) that revealed themselves a bit at a time. Tiny salt crystals, tiny grains of nut, tiny atoms of spice, and dark chocolate nuances that included chocolate and tropical fruit. (The heirloom cacao used to make this bar was from Piedra de Plata, Manabi, Ecuador.)

What a beautiful ride. I loved the intriguing range of complex and subtle flavors in this bar. And, like all great rides, it was over too soon.

Ingredients: "Dark chocolate (65% heirloom cacao, 35% cane sugar), peanuts, salprieta (peanuts, achiote, cilantro, sea salt, and ground heirloom corn), achiote paste (achiote, sea salt), cilantro, cacao butter"

Allergen-related information: (Contains Peanuts.) "May contain traces of milk, soy, or nuts."

*Salprieta is a mix of ground (usually toasted) peanuts, corn and spices. It is used as a condiment in Ecuador. 

Simply Protein - Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Bar - July 28, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Simply Protein
Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Bar
Good - Good +
Weight: 2.82 oz. (80 g.) / 5.64 oz. (160 g.) in total box of 4 bars
Calories: 340 calories in 2 bars
Cost: $7.99 (estimate) for 1 box of 4 bars
Purchased from: Missing information

Welcome to Day #2 of Chocolate and Peanut Theme Week--a series that encompasses bean-to-bar chocolates...and a few snack and protein bars with peanuts/peanut butter and chocolate.

Today's Simply Protein Peanut Butter Chocolate Snack Bars were distributed by Wellness Natural USA Inc. (Toronto, ON, Canada).

Aroma and flavor notes included: light cocoa and peanut. There were visible peanut halves embedded into the bar. There wasn't a lot of chocolate flavor; but the unsweetened chocolate that was there added--the 5th ingredient on the list--added some richness and depth to this plant protein peanut bar blend.

The texture was light, crispy and crunchy (soy crisps, brown rice crisps).

I liked that this bar contained 12 grams of protein (making it feel more satisfying), and that wasn't too sweet. (There were Net 2 grams of added sugars in each bar.) It also had a relatively short list of ingredients for a snack bar.

Ingredients: Soy Protein Crisps (Soy Protein Isolate, Tapioca Starch, Sea Salt), Peanuts, Inulin, Vegetable Glycerin, Unsweetened Chocolate, Brown Rice Crisps (Brown Rice), Natural Peanut Butter (Peanuts), Cane Sugar, Peanut Oil, Sunflower Oil Blend [Sunflower Oil, Antioxidants (Mixed Tocopherols, Rosemary Extract)}

Allergen-related information: Contains Soy, Peanuts. Made in a Facility That Also Uses Tree Nuts, Sesame.

Mezcla - Peruvian Cocoa Peanut Butter (bar) - July 27, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Mezcla
Peruvian Cocoa Peanut Butter (bar)
Good + - Good ++
Weight: 1.4 oz. (40 g.) in 1 bar
Calories: 170 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $3.49 (estimate) for 1 bar
Purchased from: Whole Foods Market, Los Altos, CA

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week, and to Day #1 of Chocolate and Peanut Theme Week.

Today's Peruvian Cocoa Peanut Butter Puff-Crispy Bar (TM) was distributed by Eat Mezcla Inc. (New York, NY). The packaging included a lovely illustration of Peruvian wildlife (birds, butterflies)--from Peruvian artist Cesar Caycho.

Aroma notes for this plant protein bar included: peanut and chocolate, faint warm spice (vanilla, cinnamon), and very faint coconut and grain/pea protein.

The texture was crispy, slightly chewy and crunchy. And the peanut, chocolate and protein crisp flavors tasted harmonious and authentic.

Ingredients: Pea Crisps (pea protein, rice starch), Organic Dark Chocolate (Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Chocolate Liquor, Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Vanilla Powder), Tapioca Syrup, Peanut Butter, Vegetable Glycerin, Pea Protein, Prebiotic Soluble Tapioca Fiber, Tapioca Syrup Solids, Organic Quinoa Crisps (Organic Quinoa), Peanuts, Tapioca Fiber, Coconut Oil, Natural Flavor, Sea Salt.

Allergen-related information: Contains Peanut, Tree Nut (Coconut). Manufactured on Equipment That Processes Dairy, Peanut, Sesame, Soy, Tree Nuts, and Egg.

Rozsavolgyi Csokolade - Almond Gianduja (bar) - July 26, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Rozsavolgyi Csokolade 
Mandula Gianduja
(Almond Gianduja (bar))
Good + - Good ++
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.12 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 152 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $15.50 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order

Welcome to Day #7 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week.

Today's Almond Gianduja 73% (bar) was from Rozsavolgyi Csokolade (Budapest, Hungary), using Peruvian Nacional cacao.

Notes on appearance...These chocolate makers also have fun with their packaging. "Erik, the Cocoa pod" makes appearances -- and was featured on today's bar enjoying an outdoor wine and bread picnic with an almond. Inside, each of their bars I've tried has been embossed with a beautiful, large swirling, floral-like, traditional Hungarian pattern.*

Aroma notes included: sweet, very slightly acidic/fruity chocolate; and nut/nut butter.

The texture was very pleasing. This chocolate was very smooth, nut buttery and the chocolate and almonds were fully integrated and creamy.

Flavor notes included: smooth, roasted note(s); very slightly bitter/bitter-sweet, dark chocolate; and fully ground nut (almond) butter and dark chocolate. The nuts provided some natural nut mellowness.

I liked that this chocolate wasn't too sweet (thank you!).

Ingredients: "Dark chocolate with Almond Praline. Ingredients: dark chocolate with 73% min. Cocoa content (cocoa beans, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter), almond praline (almond 60%, sugar, vanilla). Almond praline in the chocolate min. 20%.

Allergen-related information: Contains almonds. "Produced in a factory that also handles nuts, sesame seed and milk powder."

*This design, likely inspired by Hungarian folk art, was also very pretty in green -- on the company's matcha green tea, herbs and lemon (white chocolate) bar, sampled recently. I highly recommend trying this flavor if you're fond of higher-end white chocolate, if it is still available.

Qantu - Tresor Cache - Edition Limitee 80% Chocolat Noir Cacao Sauvage - July 25, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Qantu 
Tresor Cache - Edition Limitee - 80% Chocolat Noir Cacao Sauvage (tablette)
(Hidden Treasure - Limited Edition - 80% Dark Chocolate Wild Cacao (bar))
Good ++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 135 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $52.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order 

Welcome to Day #6 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week.

Today's Tresor Cache Limited Edition 80% Dark Chocolate (bar) was from Qantu* Cacao et Chocolat Inc. (Montreal, QC, Canada).

Aroma and flavor notes for this rare bar included: complex, mild dark chocolate (cocoa) with notes that were buttery** and diffuse and included very faint tropical fruit (pineapple, mango, cacao, white grape); spice (barely there ginger, orchid/saffron floral); clean mineral; and very, very faint green botanical and fruity nut.

This relatively pale, warm brown-hued bar had a soft, buttery, fudge-like texture, melt and mouthfeel. 

The soft, subtle buttery and hidden fruit flavors were particularly remarkable for an 80% dark chocolate bar. These milder flavors and traits are associated with Criollo and heritage/"white" cacao beans--but this was very low in acidity, bitterness and bolder/roasted flavors.

I felt very fortunate to taste this rare Peruvian (Selva Central) wild cacao-based chocolate. I hope that high-priced bars like this one ($52.99 (USD)) encourages buyers to take time to enjoy this bar s-l-o-w-l-y. A big part of the enjoyment for me was detecting new, very subtle flavors in almost every bite.

Ingredients: "organic cocoa beans, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter"

Allergen-related information: May contain traces of milk and nuts 

*Founders Elfi and Maxime named their chocolate company Qantu (pronounced Kantu) -- also the name for the national flower of Peru and Bolivia. We can thank them for sharing rare, wild cacao from Peru with chocolate fans around the globe.

**There were no butter/dairy ingredients in this bar; but I was reminded of unsalted butter in the aroma, flavor and rich, smooth texture. 

Qantu - Palo Santo 70% Smoked Dark Chocolate (bar) - July 24, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Qantu 
Palo Santo 70% Smoked Dark Chocolate (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 143 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $17.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order 

Welcome to Day #5 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week.

Today's Palo Santo 70% Smoked Dark Chocolate (bar) was from Qantu* Cacao et Chocolat Inc. (Montreal, QC, Canada).

Aroma notes included: chocolate, very faint coconut milk, very faint mint/menthol (and even fainter dried citrus peel), smoked wood, and butter.**

This lighter brown-hued bar had a rich buttery texture, melt and mouthfeel.

Flavor notes included: buttery dark chocolate with very faint but complex smoke, wood, coconut butter and green botanicals and spices.

I enjoyed this rich, buttery dark chocolate infused with subtle, Palo Santo wood smoke. Palo Santo wood has a complex aroma and flavor, and the smoked version did as well. There were wisps of the aroma and flavor notes (mentioned above) that undulated through the tasting, and floated into the finish.

Maker's tasting notes: 

• Eye: medium pale brown
• Nose: floral, touch of bergamot
• Mouth: palo santo smoke, orange peel
• Finish: spicy like nutmeg

Ingredients: Cocoa beans, cane sugar, cocoa butter, palo santo smoke

Allergen-related information: May contain traces of milk and nuts 

*Founders Elfi and Maxime named their chocolate company Qantu (pronounced Kantu) -- the national flower of Peru and Bolivia. Their focus: rare, wild cacao from Peru.

**There were no butter/dairy ingredients in this bar; but I was reminded of unsalted butter in the aroma, flavor and rich, smooth texture.

Cacao Space - Peru Ucayali River 70% w/ Dried Pineapple (bar) - July 23, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Cacao Space
Peru Ucayali River 70% with dried pineapple (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.12 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 164 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar 
Cost: $24.00 for a Peru trio of 3 different bars
Purchased from: Cacao Space, online order

Welcome to Day #4 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week.

Today's Peru Ucayali River 70% with dried pineapple (bar) was made by Cacao Space (Los Altos, CA). This chocolate was part of a trio of Peruvian (Ucayali) cacao-based dark chocolate bars.

Aroma notes for this chocolate included: dark chocolate with very faint fruit (tart-sweet tropical and stone fruit), spice and brown sugar, and faint caramel, sweet coffee and butter.

Flavor notes included: a relatively nuanced (chocolate-y, buttery dark brownie); complex, tart-sweet fruit (sweet lemon, stone fruits (plum), pineapple), very faint botanicals/herbs (mild sweet lemon-green) and even fainter mellow roasted flavors.

Texture: This chocolate was "handcrafted (and) stoneground", but smooth. And the thinly sliced pieces of fresh-tasting, dried pineapple had a mild chew that complemented the relatively buttery dark chocolate very nicely. 

I really liked the complexity and the interplay of the fruit notes in this Peru bar. The dark chocolate was subtly complex; and I loved the pineapple. Each thin piece was tender, tasted sun-ripened and sweet, and it wasn't over-sugared. (thank you!). This pineapple blend with this chocolate hit the Goldilocks fruit zone for me. It was just right.

As with other single origin cacao bars, I recommend savoring this bar (slowly) and sampling more than just one bite to fully appreciate hidden flavor nuances -- that are not present in highly processed bulk chocolates. 

Ingredients: "cacao nibs, organic coconut sugar" + dried pineapples

Allergen-related information: (No allergen information was listed on packaging.)

*Ucayali River (and the Department of Ucayali) are located inland, in Peru's Amazon. The department shares a border with Brazil. 

Cacao Space - Peru Ucayali River 70% (bar) - July 22, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Cacao Space
Peru Ucayali River 70% (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.13 oz. (32 g.) / 2.26 oz. (64 g.) in total bar
Calories: 175 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $24.00 for a Peru trio of 3 different bars
Purchased from: Cacao Space, online order

Welcome to Day #3 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week.

Today's Peru Ucayali River 70% (bar) was made by Cacao Space (Los Altos, CA). This chocolate was part of a trio of Peruvian (Ucayali) cacao-based dark chocolate bars.

Aroma notes for this chocolate included: dark chocolate with very faint fruit, spice and brown sugar, and very faint (barely detectable) roasted, sweet coffee and butter.

Flavor notes included: relatively complex dark chocolate (very dark brownie), subtle tart-sweet fruit (sweet lemon, stone fruits (plum)), very faint botanicals, spices/herbs (black licorice, lemongrass, green grass, saffron) and mellow roasted flavors.

This chocolate was "handcrafted (and) stoneground", but smooth. 

I really enjoyed the gentle complexity, including a range of fruit and botanical notes in this Peru bar.

As with many single origin cacao bars, I highly recommend savoring (slowly) more than just one bite (1/2 bar is good in today's case) to detect and appreciate hidden nuances of flavor -- that are not present in highly processed bulk chocolates. Different, faint flavor notes continued to surface even after the first few bites. 

Ingredients: "cacao nibs, organic coconut sugar"

Allergen-related information: (No allergen information was listed on packaging.)

*Ucayali River (and the Department of Ucayali) are located inland, in Peru's Amazon. The department shares a border with Brazil.

Goodnow Farms Chocolate - Peru Ucayali 70% (bar) - July 21, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Goodnow Farms Chocolate
Peru Ucayali 70% (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: .97 oz. (27.5 g.) / 1.94 oz. (55 g.) in total bar
Calories: 160 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $16.00 for 1 bar 
Purchased from: Goodnow Farms Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #2 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week.

Today's Peru Ucayali 70% (bar) was made by Goodnow Farms Chocolate (Sudbury, MA). 

The company specializes in single origin bars--some with high-end flavor and/or spice inclusions. This 70% dark chocolate was part of the bean-to-bar maker's Signature Line.

Aroma notes for this award-winning chocolate included: dark chocolate with very faint, diffuse stone fruit (peach, plum) and spices notes.

Flavor notes also included: relatively complex dark chocolate (very dark brownie), faint earth/loam,  yogurt, and tart-sweet fruit (sweet lemon, nectarine) in the finish. Subsequent bites revealed hints of sweet green and faint tropical fruit and spices (mangosteen, passion fruit, cardamom). 

This Peru bar seemed to get more interesting with every bite. 

The texture was smooth, with an appealing melt. It did have a very faint and fleeting (fruit) astringency toward the finish in the first bite. But, this feeling of "dryness"/faint graininess diminished as I re-tasted the chocolate. 

Back to flavors...There was also a very slight (barely detectable) bitterness that seemed to be just out of range--providing some delicate oomph, but not interfering with the lighter and brighter sweetness.

I really enjoyed the range of subtly complex fruit notes in this well-executed palette pleaser. 

I highly recommend savoring more than just one bite (1/2 bar is good) to get the full "unfolding" effect(s). I was still tasting slightly different flickers of fruit and other goodness even after several bites.

Ingredients: Single Origin Cacao Beans, Organic Cane Sugar, Single Origin Cocoa Butter,

Allergen-related information: "May contain trace amounts of peanuts and tree nuts." "Soy Free, Vegan, Gluten Free"

*The department of Ucayali is named for the Ucayali River and is located inland in a rainforest area.

Goodnow Farms Chocolate - Dark Chocolate Herbaceous Green Sichuan Pepper Peru 70% Cacao (bar) - July 20, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Goodnow Farms Chocolate
Dark Chocolate Herbaceous Green Sichuan Pepper Peru 70% Cacao (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: .97 oz. (27.5 g.) / 1.94 oz. (55 g.) in total bar
Calories: 165 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $18.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Goodnow Farms Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #11 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week; and Day #1 of Chocolate and Peru Theme Week.

Today's Dark Chocolate Herbaceous Green Sichuan Pepper Peru 70% Cacao (bar) was made by Goodnow Farms Chocolate (Sudbury, MA), in collaboration with 50Hertz Tingly Foods. 

Aroma notes included: chocolate and uplifting, complex and aromatic spice (aromatic herbal green, very bright citrus-y pepper/spice, mint/menthol, and very faint floral). While it's easy to attribute most of these notes to the green sichuan pepper, the Peruvian cacao used to make this bar also had herbal and flower notes, that may have amplified the overall aroma.

Texture: satisfying smooth, buttery texture, with some bright astringency in the finish.

Flavor notes included: chocolate, and very flavorful spice (peppercorn) and tingling, bright citrus-menthol note(s) that lingered long into the finish. (I can still taste it minutes after tasting; like I just brushed my teeth with a chocolate citrus-pepper and orange mint toothpaste.)

I enjoyed this boldly herbal bar. The green pepper was low on heat, but off the charts in terms of aroma and flavor. (This also speaks to the pepper's quality and freshness.) 

Not many spices (besides ginger and certain hot chili peppers) can stand up to, and even surpass, dark chocolate flavors.

Ingredients: Single Origin Cacao Beans, Organic Cane Sugar, Single Origin Cocoa Butter, Dried Green Sichuan Pepper

Allergen-related information: "Soy Free, Vegan, Gluten Free" 

*These small peppercorns are the berries from a tree that is a member of the citrus family. They have a unique tingling, almost temporary numbing quality (like drinking a carbonated drink). 

Both cacao and this pepper are fairly rich in iron and other minerals, have been prized by nobles, and can work well in both sweet or savory dishes.

Goodnow Farms Chocolate - Dark Chocolate Black Urfea Chili Dominican Republic 77% Cacao (bar) - July 19, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Goodnow Farms Chocolate
Dark Chocolate Black Urfea Chili Dominican Republic 77% Cacao (bar)
Good ++
Weight: .97 oz. (27.5 g.) / 1.94 oz. (55 g.) in total bar
Calories: 165 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $18.00 for 1 bar (also sold in multi-bar sets/collections)
Purchased from: Goodnow Farms Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #10 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Dark Chocolate Black Urfea Chili Dominican Republic 77% Cacao (bar) was from Goodnow Farms Chocolate (Sudbury, MA). 

The company handcrafts a variety of single origin chocolate bars--some with unique flavor inclusions  based on collaborations with other fine food providers. (I enjoyed the company's Good Food Award winning Caramelized Onion bar yesterday.) Today's bar contained Urfa chili* from Burlap & Barrel Single Origin Spices.

Aroma notes for this chili spice-infused bar included: dark chocolate, clean mineral, and very faint chili pepper.

The texture was very smooth, with an appealing melt and mouthfeel. (The makers press their own single origin cocoa butter.)

The relatively bold 77% Dominican Republic (Zorzal) cacao chocolate had a very faint, balanced dark earth and slightly bitter flavor that complemented the mild chili taste. 

I enjoyed trying a new (for me) spice blended with chocolate, even though it was a challenge to pin down the subtly complex chili flavors. There was a barely there spicy heat, and very faint, bright (citrus) and clean top notes (a bit similar to grains of paradise, certain peppercorns, cardamom and maybe saffron).

Ingredients: Single Origin Cacao Beans, Organic Cane Sugar, Single Origin Cocoa Butter, Black Urfa Chili

Allergen-related information: "May contain trace amounts of peanuts and tree nuts." "Soy Free, Vegan, Gluten Free"

*Black Urfa chili hails from Turkey. Sun-cured (and fermented) Urfa chili pepper flakes are typically ground together with salt and sunflower or olive oil. This chili has been described as having slight smoky, earthy, sweet and acidic notes as well as chocolate, coffee and pepper notes.

Goodnow Farms Chocolate - Dark Chocolate Caramelized Onion Nicaragua 77% Cacao (bar) - July 18, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Goodnow Farms Chocolate
Dark Chocolate Caramelized Onion 77% Cacao (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: .97 oz. (27.5 g.) / 1.94 oz. (55 g.) in total bar
Calories: 165 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $18.00 for 1 bar -- also available in multi-bar collections (bundles)
Purchased from: Goodnow Farms Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #9 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Dark Chocolate Caramelized Onion 77% Cacao (bar) was from Goodnow Farms Chocolate (Sudbury, MA). 

Extra credit to Goodnow Farms for successfully pulling off an onion flavored chocolate. It takes talent, technical skills and care to successfully blend flavors like this. After enjoying several Goodnow Farms bars, I'm happy to try new flavors from these thoughtful bean-to-bar chocolate makers (who even squeeze their own single origin cocoa butter).

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate, and fresh green, onion.

Texture: smooth and creamy with a very pleasing melt.

Flavor notes included: slightly bitter-sweet 77% dark chocolate and balanced onion (fresh green onion, onion rings). I kept anticipating tasting some salt, but there was none.* 

The "bitter" chocolate (and the fact the onions had been caramelized) made the onion taste relatively sweeter.

Ingredients: Single Origin Cacao Beans, Organic Cane Sugar, Single Origin Cocoa Butter, Safrane Globe Onion (Dried)

Allergen-related information: "Soy Free, Vegan, Gluten Free"

*Warning, possible science digression: This fill-in the blank phenomenon, influenced by past food memories is fascinating. Another example: the first time I tried a 100% cacao chocolate (with no sugars of any kind). My brain/senses were temporarily stunned--and stumped as to why there was no sugar. Clearly my body was anticipating sugar. I imagined an immediate neuronal re-wiring.

Perhaps unexpected flavors cause our brains to double-check whether there are any suspicious"off" flavors (a possible warning to make sure we avoid potentially rotten or contaminated foods).

In today's case, virtually all onion dishes contain salt; so no wonder I was feeling the absence of salt. (I resisted the urge to add some; and I was happy I did.) I enjoyed the sweeter onion nuances and the clear(er) contrast with the bitter chocolate.

Emerald City Foods - Hot Salted Sriracha 55% Dark Chocolate (bar) - July 17, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Emerald City Foods
Hot Salted Sriracha Chocolate 55% Dark Chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.25 oz. (35.5 g.) / 2.5 oz. (71 g.) in total bar
Calories: 186 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $ Missing information

Purchased from: The Market at Edgewood, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Hot Salted Sriracha 55% Dark Chocolate (bar) was distributed by Emerald City Foods, Seattle, WA.

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate and faint, slightly savory/salty (seaweed soup).

The texture was relatively creamy and was accented by tiny crunchy grains of salt and seasoning.

Flavor notes included: smooth, sweet, dark chocolate; and just the right amount of salt and Sriracha style spices (not too much, not too little) -- at least for my taste.

I loved the savory, umami-like flavors in this bar, and that it wasn't too sweet or flaming hot (thank you!).

Ingredients: Dark Chocolate (Cocoa Liquor, Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Soy Lecithin), Himalayan Sea Salt, Sriracha Seasoning: Maltrin, Sugar, Salt, Garlic, Tocopherols, Paprika Oil (for color), Sriracha Powder (Sriracha Sauce, Sodium Alginate, Carrageenan, Cellulose Gum, Silicon Dioxide, Sunflower Lecithin), Capsicum Oleoresin, Yeast Extract), Vinegar, Citric Acid.

Allergens: Contains Soy, Sulfites. "This product is manufactured at a plant that processes milk, soy, tree nuts and peanuts."

jcoco - 61% Cacao Boharat Spice Peruvian dark chocolate (bar) - July 16, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

jcoco 
61% Cacao Boharat Spice Peruvian dark chocolate bar
Good ++
Weight: 1 oz. (28 g.) in 1 small bar
Calories: 155 calories (estimate) in 1 small bar
Cost: $3.49 (also was part of a larger assortment pack of bars)
Purchased from: jcoco/Seattle Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #7 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's 61% Cacao Boharat Spice Peruvian dark chocolate (bar) was from jcoco* (Seattle, WA). It was part of an assortment of bars.

The Boharat spice blend originated in Syria; and its history may entwine with Arabic spice traders. (Boharat means "spices" in Arabic; so blends may vary. E.g., some may contain mint, some not.)

Aroma notes for this bar included: warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, pepper, paprika) and sweet dark chocolate.

Texture: smooth and creamy texture with barely detectable ground spice particles.

Flavor notes include: dark, sweet chocolate with a lovely, warming middle eastern spice blend that included some that can swing either sweet or savory (cumin, coriander, black peppercorn and paprika). I could say the same for cacao. I love trying "savory" chocolates. 

The 61% dark Peruvian cacao chocolate base was tasty. The sugar level was a bit higher than many dark chocolates; but it seemed like a good level for this bar. There was a very faint, fleeting, yogurt/loamy earth type note toward the end. It was not clear if this was coming from the cacao, the spices or a combination of both. But, mostly, it was the spices that lingered in a subtle, warm finish.

This complex Boharat spice blend was rich in flavor(s) and lacked a spicy burn. I appreciated that. The chocolate bar was well-balanced; and well-executed, and the smaller bar (in an assortment pack) gave me a chance to try a new spice blend. (More virtual travel and education via chocolate. Could this bar be used to make a Middle Eastern mole sauce I wondered?)

Ingredients: 61% cacao dark chocolate (cracked cacao beans, cane sugar, cocoa butter, sunflower lecithin), boharat spice (cardamom, nutmeg, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, black peppercorn, paprika). 

Allergen-related information: "This product is manufactured in a plant that processes milk, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, egg and wheat products."

*jcoco is part of (a brand that belongs to) Seattle Chocolate Company. 

 

Cacao & Cardamom - Spicy Mayan Hot Chocolate Stick - July 15, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Cacao & Cardamom 
Spicy Mayan Hot Chocolate Stick 
Good ++
Weight: 1.73 oz. (49 g.) in total package
Calories: 268 calories (estimate) in 1 package/serving
Cost: $5.99 for 1 stick
Purchased from: Cacao and Cardamom, online order

Welcome to Day #6 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Spicy Mayan Hot Chocolate Stick (bar) was from Cacao & Cardamom (Houston, TX). This single serving hot beverage (and other bars I ordered) were each elegantly packaged in a black mesh, drawstring bag with gold lettering.

Aroma and flavor notes for this smooth textured and tasting hot chocolate (cube on a wooden spoon that served on a stir stick) included: pleasing dark chocolate, and subtle warm spices (cinnamon, hot pepper/cayenne, vanilla)). A sprinkle of tiny marshmallows that floated to the top.

Ingredients: (No listing on the packaging.)

Allergen-related information: (No listing on the packaging.)

Ranger Chocolate - Adventure Series - Caribbean Chocolate Bar - July 14, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Ranger Chocolate 
Adventure Series - Caribbean Chocolate Bar
Good ++
Weight: 1.25 oz. (32 g.) in total bar
Calories: 193.7 calories (estimate) in 1? bar
Cost: $13.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order 

Welcome to Day #5 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week. 

Today's Caribbean Chocolate Bar from Ranger Chocolate (Portland, OR)--part of the company's Adventure Series of bars--was a collaboration with Kann (Restaurant in Portland, OR). Together they've created a blend Haitian and Pacific Northwest flavors.

Aroma notes included: chocolate, coconut milk, faint vegetable (pepper) and very faint spice, diffuse tropical fruit (mango), and vanilla.

Flavor notes for this smooth and creamy, sweet and subtly spicy, bar included: (coconut) milk chocolate and mango, with very faint spices (warm vanilla, barely detectable ginger, hot pepper), and salted rice.* 

The jalapeno heat was subtle (very slight throat burn -- that didn't show until the finish). And I liked that the authentic island flavors were well balanced and complementary. 

This adventure bar made me want to hunt for Caribbean restaurants (few and far between) in my area. I appreciated the virtual travel today's spicy chocolate made possible.

Ingredients: "organic cacao, organic sugar, mango, coconut, sea salt, vanilla bean, ginger, habanero"

Allergen-related information: "Contains: tree nuts (coconut)"..."Manufactured in a facility that uses gluten, egg, milk, tree nuts and sesame ingredients"

*There was salt, but no rice. in this bar. As with all write-ups on Chocolate Banquet, aroma and flavor notes I cite are perceptions, and don't always correspond to the actual ingredients. (For example, you can taste berries when you're sipping a glass of red wine; but that doesn't mean the wine contains berries. The same goes for chocolate with complex flavors.)

Creo Chocolate - Spicy Dark - Dark Chocolate 73% Premium Ecuadorian Cacao (bar) - July 13, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Creo Chocolate
Spicy Dark - Dark Chocolate 73% Ecuadorian Cacao (bar)
Good ++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.75 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 120 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $10.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Creo Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #4 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Spicy Dark Chocolate 73% Ecuadorian Cacao (bar) was from Creo Chocolate (Portland, OR).

Aroma and flavor notes detected in this smooth dark chocolate included: dark chocolate, warm spices (cinnamon, ginger, allspice); very faint chili powder (hot peppers, faint paprika and chipotle); and very faint mellow nut.

Chili(s) gave this bar a a bit of spicy heat; but the overall warmth was from a blend of gingerbread/pumpkin-pie type spices. I enjoyed the flavors in this balanced, well-executed bar; and the fact that it wasn't too sweet. (The warm spices--and the smooth variety of Ecuadorian cacao chosen--seemed to make this flavorful bar a little sweeter than 73% cacao chocolate.)

Ingredients: "cacao beans, organic cane sugar, cocoa butter, chilies, and our blend of Creo spices"

Allergen-related information: "Manufactured on shared equipment with products containing eggs, wheat, sesame seeds, soy, peanuts & tree nuts" 

Chocolate Naive - Cola Carbonated Dark Chocolate 65% (bar) - July 12, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Chocolate Naive 
Cola Carbonated Dark Chocolate 65% (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 2 oz. (57 g.) in total bar
Calories: 313.5 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $12.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order

Welcome to Day #3 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Cola Carbonated Dark Chocolate 65% (bar) was from Chocolate Naive (Vilnius, Lithuania).

Aroma notes for this Limited Edition bar included: chocolate with warm spices (cinnamon, cola); high-end, cola-flavored chocolate cake/torte.

Texture: rich and very creamy with a light smattering of tiny, crunchy flecks (probably popping candy to give the chocolate a carbonated taste and mouthfeel). A texture this creamy normally contains whole milk powder/butter. (It did not.)

This rich chocolate was infused with the essence of a cinnamon-forward, sweet and spicy satisfying cola soft drink with faint caramel, vanilla and citrus/lemon notes. It was a refreshing bar that perfectly evoked childhood memories--of sipping an iced cold cola on a hot day.

Warning: mildly addictive. I wanted to share this unique chocolate with others. However, when I looked down, I'd already eaten the whole bar. 

Ingredients: "specialty cacao*, caramelized cane sugar*, pure cacao butter*, cola nut*, lemon*, cinnamon*, spices blend*, lactose, malt extract, vanilla*. " "Cacao minimum: 65%"

Allergen-related information: "May contain traces of treenuts, peanuts."

 

Goodnow Farms - Zanzibar Black Pepper Chocolate 77% (bar) - July 11, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Goodnow Farms Chocolate
Zanzibar Black Pepper Chocolate 77% (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.94 oz. (55 g.) in total bar
Calories: 330 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $17.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order

Welcome to Day #2 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Zanzibar Black Pepper Chocolate 77% (bar) was from Goodnow Farms Chocolate (Sudbury, MA). This dark chocolate bar was made using Nicaragua El Carmen cacao and Burlap & Barrel's Zanzibar Black Peppercorns.

Aroma notes for this Limited Release dark bar included: hearty, deep, dark chocolate and authentic black pepper.

Texture: Very smooth and creamy texture (the makers made (pressed) and used their own single origin cocoa butter). There were no detectable pepper pieces ("ground peppercorn grit")--only flavor(s).

Flavor notes included: relatively bold, smooth chocolate-y dark chocolate with faint, diffuse, acidic fruit (ripe earthy berry, plum, persimmon); faint tart-green lemon (oxalis); very faint nut; and authentic black pepper.

I enjoyed the complex aroma and flavor notes in this bar, and the use of 77% single origin Nicaragua cacao (and single origin cocoa butter) as well as the Zanzibar pepper.

Maker's tasting notes: "...an exotic flavor journey: sharp, lemony-pepper tang, mild heat and smooth, earthy dark chocolate."

Ingredients: Single Origin Cacao Beans, Organic Cane Sugar, Single Origin Cocoa Butter, Zanzibar Black Pepper

Allergen-related information: "Soy Free, Gluten Free, Vegan"

Antidote Chocolate - Ginger bits and Grains of Paradise 77% Dark (bar) - July 10, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Antidote Chocolate 
Ginger bits + Grains of Paradise 77% Dark (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 2.3 oz. (65 g.) in total bar
Calories: 380 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $ Missing information 
Purchased from: Country Sun Natural Foods, Palo Alto, CA 

Welcome to Day #1 of Chocolate and Spices Theme Week.

Today's Ginger bits + Grains of Paradise 77% Dark (bar) from Antidote Chocolate (Antidote, FL) was made in Ecuador with Arriba Nacional cacao. 

The creative presence behind Antidote has been Red Thalhammer (who has Austrian roots); this  brand chief, creative designer--and now chocolatier--spends time in both New York and Miami. 

Aroma notes for this bar included: spicy-sweet ginger and dark chocolate.

Tiny bursts of aromatic ginger and grains of paradise were integrated with smooth dark chocolate.

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate, small pieces of candied ginger and a sweet bright cardamom-like spice (Grains of Paradise) that reminded me of fruit punch bubble gum, sweet resin and cotton candy when it surfaced from underneath the two stronger flavors -- rich, 77% dark chocolate and candied ginger. Bravo for breaking through these two fairly dominant flavors, and adding sophisticated and complex spice flavors.

I really enjoyed this complex and well-balanced bar bursting with satisfying taste. If you like ginger and warm and exotic spice flavors, I recommend giving this bar a try.

Ingredients: cacao beans, whole cane sugar, cacao butter, ginger, grains or paradise, sunflower lecithin. 

Allergen-related information: Made in a facility that handles milk, soy (and) nuts. 

Bonus entry: Matcha white chocolate bars from 3 chocolate makers - July 9, 2024

Chocolate(s) of the Day

Rozsavolgyi Csokolade
Green herbs and Matcha tea in White Chocolate with Lemon oil (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 2.47 oz. (70 g.) in total bar
Calories: 164 calories in 1 oz. (28.3 g.) serving
Cost: $15.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order

Deux Cranes
Sakura + Matcha Chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Weight: .5 oz. (14.1 g.) / 2.47 oz. (70 g.) in total bar
Calories: 177.5 calories (estimate) in .5 oz. of  bar
Cost: $16.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: The Sweet Shop, Los Altos, CA 

Fjak Chocolate
Limited Edition - Sea Buckthorn & Matcha White Chocolate (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 2.11 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 161 calories (estimate) in 1 oz. of bar
Cost: $12.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week. My Chocolate of the Day was a Hojicha Hot Chocolate from Dandelion Chocolate (San Francisco, CA). 

This bonus post includes three white chocolates (made with cocoa butter, but no cocoa solids*) that all contain Matcha green tea. These Japan-inspired flavor fusions of east and west were fun to try.

Green Herbs, Matcha, Lemon (bar)

This pretty bar was created in Budapest (Hungary), using Matcha green tea from Japan. But, that was just the starting point.

This creamy, jade-hued bar was a blend of bright lemon citrus, mint, green tea and green herb (tarragon). This beautifully patterned green bar was a refreshingly sweet summer white chocolate; and it offered perhaps the freshest spring-summer botanical bouquet of the three.

Sakura + Matcha (bar)

Deux Cranes (Los Gatos, CA) uses flavors from Japan and French (Valrhona) chocolate to make their bars and creations. 

Aroma and flavor notes for this jade green and pink bar included: sweet green tea and very faint floral cheesecake, vanilla and cherry. (It contained both Sakura (cherry blossom) leaf powder and flower petals.) (Extra points for authentic Japanese ingredients.)

The slightly astringent, authentic green tea lingered into the finish. And the faint cherry blossom note gave this bar some extra floral polish.

Sea Buckthorn & Matcha (bar)

Fjak Chocolate is based in Eidfjord, Norway; and many of their most memorable bean-to-bar offerings include local Norwegian flavors (like apple cider; berries; reindeer moss; brown cheese). 

This Limited Edition bar was part of Fjak's "World Flavours" collection. Matcha was paired with a local orange "sea berry" (that grows on tall bushes in Northern Europe, Mongoloia, Russia--and Canada).

This elegant bar was beautifully constructed using two (fused) layers: a sea green matcha green tea layer on the bottom was topped with a golden colored (sea buckthorn) layer. The tea and fruit additions were wholly incorporated into the smooth two-toned chocolate.

The green layer was initially fairly green tea forward. Then the top layer kicked in. It was infused with tart-sweet fruit flavor (sea buckthorn, cape gooseberry, very faint tamarind). The two layers harmonized nicely and gave me a chance to better enjoy each of these two complementary flavors even as they melted into one.

The tart-sweet Sea Buckthorn fruit livened the tea up a bit -- like squeezing sweet, fresh lemon to a cup of black tea.

Summary

I loved that all three gently complex and balanced bars were not overly sweet (thank you!); and all were visually appealing, thoughtfully designed and well-executed white chocolates--blended with authentic-tasting green (Matcha) tea and fresh fruit/floral/herbal flavor inclusions.

*I don't "count" white chocolates as a formal Chocolate of the Day; but they can be fun extra entries in theme weeks.

Dandelion Chocolate - Hojicha Hot Chocolate Mix - July 9, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Dandelion Chocolate
Hojicha Hot Chocolate Mix 
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.4 oz. (40 g.) / 5.6 oz. (160 g.) in total glass container
Calories: 217 calories (estimate) in 1 serving (1/4 container)  

Cost: $18.00 for 1 container
Purchased from: Dandelion Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week, with a few chocolates featuring Japanese green teas. Hojicha is a roasted green tea from Japan.

Today's Hojicha Hot Chocolate Mix* was from San Francisco-based Dandelion Chocolate. (The company also has a location in Tokyo, Japan).

Dandelion is most well-known for their bean-to-bar chocolate (bars). This Japanese-inspired, hot beverage blend was made with single origin 70% Camino Verde, Ecuador cacao/chocolate and was attractively packaged in a smoke-colored glass container with a cork stopper. Was this 4-serving container expensive? At $4.50 per serving, yes. But, I felt I was paying for the whole experience (being in Japan without the plane flight--or having to find parking in the Mission District of San Francisco). And I'll definitely use the glass container for other things.**

Aroma notes (after removing the stopper) included: dark chocolate (oxalis, tannic botanicals, very faint diffuse fruit (persimmon and brown sugar)), roasted and slightly acidic tea. After taking out a few spoonfuls, there were more fragrant, almost floral green tea notes below the surface.

As I prepared this into hot chocolate, the tiny granules of chocolate-y, single origin dark chocolate dissolved into a fragrant, crisp green tea background. (Tip: Try to heat this blend and whisk just enough to melt the chocolate, but not so much that you lose the more delicate (volatile) green tea notes.)

The green tea flavor was very refreshing, especially when I drank this beverage cold. (We're having a heat wave in California.) I enjoyed the opportunity to try this blend of bold and delicate, nuanced flavors; and the fact that it was very lightly sweetened (thank you!). Other tasting notes included: faint roasted, balanced earth and very slight astringency (likely from the tea).

Maker's notes: "Japanese green tea + 70% fudge-y Ecuador chocolate...that whisks up rich and creamy, drinks with subtle smoky notes and a smooth finish..." 

Ingredients: 70% Camino Verde, Ecuador chocolate (cocoa beans, organic cane sugar), light brown sugar, roasted green tea

Allergen-related information: "Packed in a facility that also processes peanuts, milk, tree nuts (almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, walnuts, and coconuts), sesame, wheat, and soy."

*Other hot chocolate mixes currently offered by the company: a classic House Hot Chocolate, a spicy Mission Hot Chocolate, and a House Mocha blend.

**2023-2024 will go down as a period when chocolate prices rose significantly. And, due to inflation and climate changes (e.g. hotter weather, stronger storms, failed crops), prices will likely stay high.  

Wildwood Chocolate - Yuzu with Roasted Brown Rice (bar) - July 8, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Wildwood Chocolate
Yuzu with Roasted Brown Rice (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.5 oz. (42.5 g.) / 3 oz. (85 g.) in total bar
Calories: 225 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $17.50 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Health Spa and Healing Center and Spa, Cavallo Point, Sausalito, CA

Welcome to Day #7 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week. This week features chocolates made: in Japan; by Japanese chefs and chocolatiers; and/or with flavor inclusions inspired by Japanese cuisine.

Today's Yuzu with Roasted Brown Rice (bar) was from Wildwood Chocolate (Portland, OR). 

If you like botanically-themed chocolates, you'll appreciate the beautiful fern and floral patterns on Wildwood bars. (The company name was inspired by a favorite local trail in the Portland area.)*

Aroma notes included a complex, aromatic blend of balanced, very slightly acidic/smokey (peaty), sweet green dark chocolate, citrus and rice.

This attractive bar was a textural feast that included: thick dark and creamy; candied-fruit chewy; and light and crunchy elements.

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate (fudge-y, very slightly acidic/peaty but otherwise very smooth); candied yuzu fruit with sweet citrus and faint floral notes; and evenly toasted rice with faint roasted, nutty and malty notes.

I enjoyed the choice of rich, complex, darker (70%) chocolate--that was flavorful, yet did not overwhelm the yuzu fruit and roasted rice.

Maker's tasting notes: "Delicate floral candied yuzu pairs beautifully with subtle nutty crunchy roasted brown rice, blending beautiful flavors and textures over rich 70% dark chocolate. Enjoy a cup of genmaicha or your favorite cheese."

Ingredients: Bittersweet Chocolate (cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, sugar, sunflower lecithin, vanilla), Candied Yuzu (yuzu, beet sugar, millet jelly (tapioca starch), ascorbic acid), Roasted Brown Rice.

Allergen-related information: May contain traces of the following if not listed above due to shared equipment: soy, milk, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat and eggs.

*This may sound a little fanciful. But, Portland is also a city with a high chocolate IQ, with some serious chocolate makers and chocolatiers. 

Deux Cranes - Hojicha Caramel Milk Chocolate (bar) - July 7, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Deux Cranes
Hojicha Caramel Milk Chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.23 oz. (35 g.) / 2.47 oz. (70 g.) in total bar
Calories: 191 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar

Cost: $15.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Deux Cranes, online order

Welcome to Day #6 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week.

Today's Hojicha Caramel Milk Chocolate (bar) was created by Deux Cranes LLC (Los Gatos, CA). The company's handcrafted chocolates are "rooted in Japan (and) inspired by France." (I previously featured the Deux Cranes Miso Almonds chocolate bar.)

French-trained chocolatier, Michiko Marron-Kibbey, draws on her Japanese heritage and uses Valrhona chocolate(s) from France in their bars and confections.

Aroma and flavor notes for his Hojicha bar included: smooth and creamy dark milk chocolate; lovely, very slightly floral (jasmine/jasmine rice like) green tea; and very faint caramel/brown sugar. 

The milk helped balance the sugar, and buffered any tannic acidity that might have been present in the tea without subduing the chocolate and green tea flavors. The chocolate had a smooth, rich chocolate milk flavor and finish.

I loved the light, refreshing, green tea aroma, and appreciated the well-executed balance between the various ingredients. Yes, it was sweet...and slightly addictive.

Ingredients: Caramelized Milk Chocolate (Sugar, Cocoa butter, Caramel (skimmed milk, whey (milk), sugar, butter (milk), flavoring), Whole milk powder, Cocoa beans) sunflower lecithin (Emulsifier), Hojicha Ground Tea, Sea Salt.

Allergen-related information: Contains: Milk. (This product may contain traces of nuts, milk, and gluten. Produced and packaged in the same facility as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and milk products.

Deux Cranes - Dark Chocolate with Black Sesame + Ginger (bar) - July 6, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Deux Cranes
Dark Chocolate with Black Sesame + Ginger (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.23 oz. (35 g.) / 2.47 oz. (70 g.) in total bar
Calories: 191 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar

Cost: $16.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Deux Cranes, online order

Welcome to Day #5 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week.

Today's Dark Chocolate with Black Sesame + Ginger (bar) was created by Deux Cranes LLC (Los Gatos, CA). The company's handcrafted chocolates are "rooted in Japan and inspired by France." (I previously featured their Miso Almonds chocolate bar.)

Aroma notes included: slightly earthy and fudge-y dark chocolate; faint Umami (sesame); warm spices (maple, caramel, vanilla, ginger); and very faint fresh bread.

Texture: smooth chocolate with crunchy caramelized sesame seeds and candied/crystallized ginger bits.

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate (ultra-dark fudge brownie); faint sesame and caramel/brown sugar; and warm hints of ginger.

Maker's tasting/flavor notes: "Earthy, Sweet Spices, Balanced Bitterness"

I enjoyed the nicely balanced and complex flavors in this well-executed bar. There was a lot going on; but it worked. Sweet dark chocolate and spices and a little salty and umami. (Disclaimer: I like less sweet and Umami chocolates.)

Ingredients: Caramelized Milk Chocolate (Sugar, Cocoa butter, Caramel (skimmed milk, whey (milk), sugar, butter (milk), flavoring), Whole milk powder, Cocoa beans) sunflower lecithin (Emulsifier), Hojicha Ground Tea, Sea Salt.

Allergen-related information: Contains: Sesame, Soy. May contain traces of nuts, milk, and gluten. Packaged and processed in the same facility as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and milk products.

Amano Artisan Chocolate - Citrus Melange A Trois 63% dark chocolate (bar) - July 5, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Amano Artisan Chocolate
Citrus Melange A Trois 63% dark chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.4 oz. (40 g.) / 3 oz. (85 g.) in total bar
Calories: 205 calories in 1 serving (approximately 1/2 bar)
Cost: $10.25 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order 

Welcome to Day #4 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week. Common flavor inclusions this week include Yuzu citrus, sesame seeds, green tea and other umami flavors.

Today's Citrus Melange A Trois 63% cocoa dark chocolate (bar) was made by Amano Chocolate Company (Orem, UT).

Aroma notes for this bar included: chocolate torte with citrus (orange, tangerine, other tart-sweet orange and citrus fruit); and very faint, fleeting botanicals/spices (green pepper/peppery greens, oxalis, citrus-pine, vanilla).

Texture: smooth dark chocolate with citrus flavors and an occasional, tiny trophy bit of citrus.

I really enjoyed the blend of dark chocolate and complex (and complementary) micro-bursts of authentic, tart-sweet citrus--including Yuzu fruit from Japan.*

Note: Amano also offers a Japanese Sea Salt and Cocoa Nibs bar.

Maker's tasting notes: "Haunting flavor notes of Yuzu, tangerine, and grapefruit enrich the deep chocolate flavor. Orange pieces provide a layer of juiciness."

Ingredients: Chocolate: Cocoa Beans, Pure Cane Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Whole Vanilla Beans, Yuzu, Tangerine, and Grapefruit, Orange Pieces: Apple Puree, Apple Juice, Orange Juice, Fiber, Pectin, Paprika.

Allergen-related information: "May Contain Traces of Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Soy, Wheat and Milk Products"

*Citrus fruits originated in Asia; but there are a few hybrid citrus varieties, like Yuzu (aka Japanese citron), that are associated with Japan.

Dandelion Chocolate - Tokyo Gateau chocolate cake - July 4, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Dandelion Chocolate
Tokyo Gateau chocolate cake
Good ++ - Good +++  
Weight: 4.85 oz. (113.3 g.) / 9.7 oz. (275 g.) in total cake
Calories: (Unknown)
Cost: $55.00 for 1 cake

Purchased from: Dandelion Chocolate, online order

Kon'nichiwa, yokoso (hello and welcome) to Day #3 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week.

Today's Tokyo Gateau (chocolate cake)--ensconced in a reusable, wooden box was made by the Tokyo Pastry team in the Japan kitchen of Dandelion Chocolate (San Francisco, CA).

Aroma notes for this French-style chocolate cake included: rich, buttery smooth dark chocolate (ganache, buttery torte). 

I think of a French gateau as a buttery, velvety, cake (often with an incorporated filling or frosting layer). 

The texture for this one was indeed thick, buttery soft, velvety, and chocolate-y; and, yes, it was similar to a French Gateau au Chocolat. And it was very rich. 

It was described as having a texture of thick, creamy cheese. A chocolate version of creamy brie--but with dairy butter and silken eggs rather than cheese flavors. One slice of this chocolate cake with the texture of chocolate butter was enough to satisfy me. 

Flavor notes included: rich chocolate, caramel and very faint, diffuse buttery fruit (Anamalai cacao is somewhat fruity).

I loved that this rich chocolate cake was gluten-free, full of chocolate flavor, and made with four, "carefully sourced" ingredients. 

Reflecting the large jump in chocolate prices in the past year*, this cake was quite pricey; however, it was cheaper than hopping on a plane to Tokyo. (I also am enjoying reusing the wooden box for art supplies.) It was a deceptively simple cake, but probably one I wouldn't have had the patience to make. (Getting the eggs to behave can be harder than some think.)

Ingredients: Dandelion 70% chocolate (cocoa beans from Anamalai, India, organic cane sugar), butter, organic cane sugar, eggs. 

Allergen-related information: Contains milk (butter) and eggs. Made in a facility that also processes milk, wheat, eggs, peanuts, soy, sesame, tree nuts (almonds, hazelnuts).

Maker's description: "Developed to highlight the distinctive tasting notes of two complementary origins--(one being) Dandelion Japan 70% Anamalai, India, 2019 Harvest chocolate...These fudgy, almost cheesecake-like confections are crafted from single-origin chocolate, organic cane sugar, orange-yolked eggs, and unsalted butter. They contain no flour, and their silky texture is achieved by precise mixing and careful monitoring of ingredient temperature.

*The jump in cacao prices are due to many global factors, ranging from bad weather/storms hitting several key cacao growing nations (ruining crops) to inflation all through the supply chain. In today's case international shipping of a perishable pastry/cake from Japan to San Francisco (and then to my house during the summer) added to the price as well.

Cacao & Cardamom Chocolatier - Triple Citrus Crunch 68% (bar) - July 3, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Cacao & Cardamom
Triple Citrus Crunch 68% (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++ 
Weight: 1.75 oz. (50 g.) / 3.5 oz. (100 g.) in total bar
Calories: 271 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $12.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Cacao & Cardamom, online order

Welcome to Day #2 of Chocolate and Japan Theme Week.

Today's Triple Citrus Crunch 68% (bar) was from Cacao & Cardamom Chocolatier (Houston, TX).

Aroma notes for this elegant-looking bar included: dark chocolate, sweet and aromatic citrus (orange cookie), and faint warm spice (ginger).

Texture: smooth, hearty dark chocolate, slightly chewy bits of ginger and various nuanced citrus flavors/pieces, and lightly crispy-crunchy puffed rice.

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate and very nicely nuanced citrus flavors ranging from a peel that was "yellower" than orange and mellow and warm in flavor; another piece that had more of a sweet orange-kumquat-like citrus zing, and a third citrus that was quite rounded/mellow and nice orange.

I really enjoyed this beguiling flavor and visual feast of a bar. I very much appreciated being able to taste the nuanced citrus flavors. (The peels and dried fruit weren't overly sugared or candied.) I also liked the well-executed balance between the flavors and textures: the dark chocolate, three types of Japanese citrus, ginger and puffed rice.

Ingredients: 68% Bolivia (Cacao Kernel, Sugar, Cacao Butter), Dried Amantsu (amantsu, beet sugar, millet jelly, ascorbic acid), Dried Iyokan (iyokan, beet sugar, millet jelly, ascorbic acid), Dried Yuzu (Yuzu, beet sugar, millet jelly, ascorbic acid), Rice Puff (rice flour, sugar, barley malt extract salt, rice extract), Dehydrated Orange

Allergen-related information: "Made in a Facility that handles tree nuts"

Creo Chocolate - Black Sesame Seed Brittle - July 2, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Creo Chocolate
Black Sesame Seed Brittle 
Good +++
Weight: 1.5 oz. (42.5 g.) / 3 oz. (85 g.) in total package
Calories: 233 calories (estimate) in 1/2 package
Cost: $12.75 for 1 package
Purchased from: Creo Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #9 of Chocolate and Ecuador Theme Week, and Day #1 of Chocolate and Japan Week.

Sesame seeds (goma) may be native to Africa/Indus Valley/India; but the seeds, oil and flavoring have been used in classical Japanese entrees, rice dishes, desserts and snacks for centuries.

Today's Black Sesame Seed Brittle was from Creo Chocolate (Portland, OR).

Aroma notes for this Good Food Awards winning brittle included: sweet sesame and nut* butter; clean sweet green; faint toffee/caramel; faint dark chocolate; and barely there umami.

Complex texture notes for this impossibly thin (how did they do it?) toffee brittle included: two levels of crunch and chew: the toffee and the sesame seeds. Each piece was fully coated with dark chocolate--providing a thin, smooth and creamy dark layer that complemented the crunchy seed garnish and the brittle interior.

Flavor notes for this addictive, buttery, creamy and crunchy chocolate included: toffee; faint sesame and nut*; dark chocolate; faint sea salt, and umami. And there was a satisfying, subtle seed butter + dairy butter note in the finish. 

This scored well on my preferences for sweetness level (it was not overly sweet); complexity (well-executed, layered flavors; and balance (well-balanced). Extra points for a bit of sesame umami. (Disclaimer: I like savory chocolates.)

Ingredients: Chocolate (Cacao, Organic Sugar, Cocoa Butter), Organic Butter, Organic Cane Sugar, Black and White Sesame Seeds, Sea Salt. 

Allergen-related information: "Contains Milk and Sesame Seeds...Processed in a Facility that Processes Milk, Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Sesame Seeds, and Wheat."

*Nut-like "notes" were detected/experienced while tasting; but there were no nut ingredients.

Cacao Space - Ecuador Hacienda Victoria 75% (bar) - July 1, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Cacao Space
Ecuador Hacienda Victoria 75% (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.18 oz. (33.5 g.) / 2.37 oz. (67 g.) in total bar
Calories: 183 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $9.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Cacao Space, online order (with local pick-up)

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate and Ecuador Theme Week.

Today's Ecuador Hacienda Victoria 75% (bar) was from Cacao Space (Los Altos (pick-up location), CA). Chocolate maker, Ksenia Arapova, specializes in a variety of single origin cacao-based bars, including some with flavor inclusions.

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate, spice(s); very faint sweet-tart green; faint roasted/wood; black licorice; and very faint, fleeting coconut biscuit/cookie.

Texture: thick, buttery, smooth.

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate (dark cocoa, dark fudge), botanicals (roasted greens/wood/nut); black licorice; and faint coconut cookie.

I enjoyed the complexity (rich and unique aroma and flavor notes) in this chocolate bar.

Ingredients: cacao nibs, organic coconut sugar

Maker's notes: "Handcrafted, stone ground, refined sugar free, plant based"

Allergen-related information: None listed.