Chocolate Spiel - Mexico 88% bars (with and without cocoa butter colors) - June 29, 2025

Chocolate(s) of The Day

Chocolate Spiel
Mexico 88% bar + Mexico 88% bar with painted colors (cocoa butter)

1.) Good + - Good ++ and 2.) Good ++
Weight: 1 oz. (28 g.) x 2  = 2 oz. (56.3 g.) for two bars total
Calories: 310 calories (estimate) in 2 bars
Cost: $15.00 for 2 bars 
Purchased from: Chocolate Spiel, online order

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

Today's two Mexico 88% dark chocolate (bars) were from Chocolate Spiel (Seattle, WA).

The cacao used to make these bars was from Tabasco, Mexico.

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate and very faint diffuse fruit.

Texture: very smooth chocolate 

Flavor notes included: subtle dark chocolate aroma with authentic dark chocolate with balanced bitterness (consistent with an ultra-dark (88% cacao bar in this case) bar.  

Today was an opportunity to taste a "painted" (with colored cocoa butter) and an unpainted version of the same high-cacao percentage (88%) single origin bar. 

The two-colored cocoa butter created a beautiful design; and more significantly it gave this (colored bar) a slightly mellower (less bitter) flavor.

I liked the choice of a short list of single origin and quality ingredients, and that these bars weren't too sweet.

Ingredients: cocoa, sugar, cocoa butter (and colored cocoa butter for the 2nd bar/version) 

Allergen-related information: May contain traces of tree nuts, peanuts and gluten.

Jangala Cacao & Selva - 70% Lavender Dark Chocolate with Pollen, Fennel (bar) - June 28, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Jangala Cacao & Selva
70% Cacao Lavender Dark Chocolate with Pollen, Fennel (bar)
Good ++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 98 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $18.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: The Chocolate Dispensary, online order

Bienvenidos a (Welcome to) Day #9 of Chocolate and Floral Week, and Day #4 of Chocolate & Mexico Theme Week.

Today's  Jangala Cacao & Selva 70% Cacao Lavender Dark Chocolate with Pollen, Fennel (bar) was made by Jangala Frutos De La Tierra S. de R.I. de C.V. (San Cristobol de Las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico). southern Mexico.

The company specializes in single origin Mexican cacaos with a deep appreciation of--and connection to--the farmers and jungles (selvas) essential to sustainable production. To create chocolate like today's bar, they worked with "fermented native cacaos..."Criollos and Trinitarios from Soconusco."

Aroma and aroma notes included: dark chocolate, lavender, fennel and faint honey (pollen). 

Texture: smooth dark chocolate with finely and carefully ground/dried botanical elements (lavender buds, fennel seeds, bee pollen) pressed into the back of the bar--creating an attractive, enchanted garden/forest pattern and feel.

I enjoyed the well-executed and balanced aroma and flavor elements in this bar; the short list of quality ingredients; and that the floral and herbal inclusions imparted an authentic texture and taste, without being too large or pokey. Right in the Goldilocks zone.*

"Aromatic notes: chocolate, lavender, fennel, floral."

"Organic Ingredients: Cacao, cane sugar, cacao butter, bee pollen, dehydrated fennel, dehydrated lavender flower."

Allergen-related information: None listed on package.

*To describe something as being in "the Goldilocks zone" means that it's just right. Not too hot, not too cold. Not too hard, not too soft. Not too big, not too small....And these references come from a European folk tale which--in the modern version--features a young girl (Goldilocks) who enters the home of three bears in a forest, while the bears are out on a walk. She then proceeds to try out their porridge, chairs and beds, finding ones (belonging to the youngest bear) that are just right for her. 

Cuna de Piedra - 73% Mexican Cacao from Comalcalco with Hibiscus Flowers (bar) - June 27, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Cuna de Piedra
73% Mexican Cacao from Comalcalco with Hibiscus Flowers (bar)
Good + - Good ++
Weight: 1.05 oz. (30 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 100 calories in 1/2 bar (per label)
Cost: $10.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate and Floral Theme Week, and Day #3 of Chocolate & Mexico Theme Week.

Today's 73% Mexican Cacao from Comalcalco with Hibiscus Flowers Dark Chocolate (bar) was from Cuna de Piedra* (Monterrey, NL, Mexico).

The company is an "homage to Mexican Cacao." And the cacao used to make this bar was from the Comalcalco, Tabasco region in southeastern Mexico. (The cacao beans chosen were part of the "Rainy Season Harvest 2024".)

To this cacao, the makers added bits of sun-dried hibiscus flowers--that were harvested by indigenous community members who have been cultivating the "creole Hibiscus tree(s)"** (introduced by the Spanish) for centuries. These two flavors were showcased effectively in this three-ingredient chocolate.

Aroma notes for this chocolate included: dark chocolate and faint, tart floral (hibiscus).

The lightly sweetened dark chocolate and the ruby-hued hibiscus flower bits pressed across the back of the bar tasted authentic; and it was interesting to taste the hibiscus flowers without a lot of sugar. (Normally, hibiscus drinks (like Jamaica) here in northern California are very sweet.)

Ingredients: Cacao beans, Cane sugar, Sundried Hibiscus flowers.

Allergen-related information: "Manufactured in a facility that processes wheat, milk, soy, peanuts, tree nuts and eggs."

*The company name Cuna de Piedra translates to "cradle of stone," which immediately made me think of women grinding roasted cacao beans into a paste using a stone metate and mano (grinding stone) in the jungles of Central America.

** This hibiscus variety was "originally introduced by the Spanish galleons on the Pacific route from Manila to Acapulco, and is known for being particularly robust and aromatic." 

Mama Ganache - Aztec Chocolate 70% Cocoa (bar) - June 26, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Mama Ganache
Aztec Chocolate 70% Cocoa (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) in 1 bar
Calories: 190 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $N/A gift from a friend
Purchased from: Gift from a friend 

Welcome to Day #7 of Chocolate and Floral Theme Week; and Day #2 of Chocolate & Mexico Theme Week. Like yesterday's Aztec bar, vanilla added sweet, warm and mellow floral notes to today's chocolate.

Today's Aztec Chocolate 70% Cocoa (bar) with vanilla and spices was from Mama Ganache Artisan Chocolates Inc. (San Luis Obispo, CA)--and was made with "ethically sourced ingredients." 

Aroma notes for this bar included: subtle dark chocolate and vanilla.

Texture: smooth, buttery/creamy texture, with tiny softly crunchy bits (likely chili pepper, vanilla bean or cocoa nibs) that weren't at all objectionable.

Flavor notes included: smooth, satisfying dark chocolate with subtle vanilla--and sporadic, authentic chili heat.

I enjoyed the almost silken chocolate and the comforting chocolate and vanilla blend that reminded me of drinking chocolate/rich cocoa. 

The spicy chili pepper heat that kicked in about 5 seconds after most bites livened things up considerably. I felt a tiny burn in my throat. But, I felt compelled to take another bite each time...until the bar was gone.

This chocolate might be a little spicy for some; but the flavorful spicy kick was less fire-breather and more consistent with the ancient Aztec practice of adding warm, floral vanilla and hot chili peppers to chocolate beverages. Only this chocolate was in a slightly addicting 70% cacao chocolate bar format.

Ingredients: Organic bittersweet chocolate (Organic chocolate liquor*, organic sugar*, organic cocoa butter*, & organic vanilla*), organic spices & flavors. (* Fair Trade)

Allergen-related information: "Made on equipment that also processes peanuts, nuts, wheat & dairy."

Nirvana Belgian Chocolates - Organic 72% Dark Spicy Aztec Chocolate (bar) - June 25, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Nirvana Belgian Chocolates
Organic 72% Dark Spicy Aztec Chocolate (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.76 oz. (50 g.) / 3.5 oz. (100 g.) in total bar
Calories: 250 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $11.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: World Wide Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #6 of Chocolate and Floral Theme Week; and Day #1 of Chocolate and Mexico Theme Week.

Today's Organic 72% Dark Spicy Aztec Chocolate (bar) was made in Belgium for Belgium's Chocolate Source (Milton, MA). The company produces several Organic and Fair Trade Belgian chocolates (bars) under the Nirvana brand name.

Vanilla (from the Vanilla planifolia orchid plant) is probably the most popular floral flavor in chocolates. Vanilla and cacao are both native to the Americas; and evidence suggests that humans have been enjoying vanilla in cacao beverages for many centuries.*

Aroma and flavor notes included: smooth dark chocolate (with very faint, fleeting managed earth); subtle warm spices (cinnamon), vanilla and faint nut (almond). A barely detectable chili flavor note added complementary warmth. 

This was a pleasant and appealing dark chocolate bar made with Trinitario cacao. I enjoyed the dark nutty flavor blend with authentic, subtle vanilla, cinnamon and chili (and nutmeg). The almonds and vanilla added a mellowness to the dark chocolate.

Only vanilla and chili would have been available to the early Maya and Aztec peoples, centuries ago, in what is now Mexico. Cinnamon arrived later (via Spain/Spanish trade routes), and (along with vanilla and chili) is now heavily associated with Mexican chocolate bars, beverages and confections.

Ingredients: "Dark Chocolate* (unsweetened chocolate, raw cane sugar, reduced fat cocoa powder, soy lecithin as an emulsifier), Almonds*, and Spice*."

Allergen-related information: "Contains Almonds, Soy (lecithin). (* = Organic). Manufactured on shared equipment in a facility that handles milk and other tree nuts." "Suitable for vegetarians. Gluten free."

*Vanilla is native to Mesoamerica. The Aztecs are thought to have picked up the practice of blending vanilla with their chocolate beverages from the Totonacs. (The Aztecs conquered in the 1400s). I don't know how long the Totonacs were enjoying these two items together, but it's safe to say that people have been enjoying cacao and vanilla together for at least 600 years in Central America.

 

Luisa Abram Chocolates - Dark Chocolate with Jambu Flower (bar) - June 24, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Luisa Abram Chocolates  
Dark Chocolate with Jambu Flower (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1.4 oz. (40 g.) (per label) / 2.8 oz. (80 g.) in total bar
Calories: 188 calories (estimate) in 1 bar (of 2)
Cost: $14.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order

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

Today's Dark Chocolate with Jambu Flower (bar) was made in Brazil by Familia Abram Banks Ltda. (Sao Paolo, Brazil). 

Luisa Abrams is a bean-to-bar chocolate maker whose chocolates are rich with local cacao terroir nuances and Amazonian flavor inclusions. Her flavorful bars offer rare and delicious glimpses of wild cacaos--and cacao paired with local fruits, flowers, nuts/seeds that grow nearby in Brazil.

This package contained two, individually-wrapped bars. The chocolate were thoughtfully crafted with 70% Rio Tocantins wild cacao chocolate ("which has a very citrusy profile"), Amazonian cocoa butter and jambu flower. The skillful blend of all three resulted in a skillfully constructed powerhouse of nuanced and intriguing, authentic Amazon flavors.

Brazilian jambu flowers have been described as: slightly spicy, medicinal, numbing, and like a gingery blueberry with tannic fruit-like astringency. They can be found in traditional dishes in northern Brazil, and are consumed medicinally. 

I found the very slightly numbing quality (earning the nickname for jambu flower as the toothache plant) was quite mild. It was similar to a milder version of the Sichuan green peppercorn's tingling quality.

Complex aroma and flavor notes for this bar included: dark chocolate; refreshing diffuse and bright (sweet-tart) fruity floral; and a complementary blend of sweet green intriguing botanical syrups, spiced with fruits (prickly pear, pineapple, guava, orange, date, fig) and hibiscus.

Texture: smooth and hearty, with the exception of one or two tiny/fine grit pieces (likely from either cacao bean nibs or jambu).

I loved the wild cacao 70% dark chocolate; the subtle warmness of the organic sugar; and the bold sweet-tart floral and fruit flavors with citrus (orange, almost kumquat), ripe guava and sweet green (green fig, green nut, sweet green/young walnuts in syrup) notes. 

Ingredients: "Cocoa Mass, organic cane sugar, cocoa butter and jambu flower.", Dates*, Cacao Butter*, Bee Pollen, Rose Petals, Lavender (* Organic)

Allergen-related information: "

Fossa Chocolate - Gardenia Flower Green Tea (bar) - June 23, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Fossa Chocolate
Gardenia Flower Green Tea (bar) 
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 273 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $13.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order

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

Today's Gardenia Flower Green Tea (bar) was from Fossa Chocolate (Singapore). It was the part of the company's impressive Tea Collection.

Fossa makers chose a "...floral and mild Peruvian cacao from Puerta Pulache, Piura..." for this refreshing gardenia green tea bar. In a multi-step process...

Aroma notes for this bar included: subtle dark milk chocolate and come hither floral and green tea notes. The carefully nested process of flavor development in this bar was impressive: 

"Green teas from the "Fuding Da Bai cultivar were infused with Gardenia flowers from Qianwei country in Sichuan using a traditional floral infusion method -- fresh flowers are layered over tea leaves in a laborious process that is repeated seven times to achieve complex yet delicate floral candy sweetness."

 And of course the tea was then integrated into the Peruvian cacao which had its own, albeit mild, naturally floral cacao notes.

Texture: creamy and smooth with a quiet whisper of green tea astringency.

Flavor notes included: smooth, creamy and addictive dark milk chocolate infused with authentic and beautiful floral (gardenia) green tea notes. Just a faint whisper of green tea astringency.

I really enjoyed the upbeat gardenia tea blend; the choice of complementary cacao; the creamy texture and the subtle and harmonious complexity. And, like all the bars Fossa's Tea Collection that I've tried, I appreciated the thoughtful sourcing of ingredients and skillful balance and execution of the finished product. 

Maker's tasting notes: "Candy-like florals with lingering umami and a creamy mouthfeel"

Ingredients: "Organic cacao, cane sugar, cocoa butter, milk powder, tea leaves"

Allergen-related information: "Contains dairy. Produced in a facility that processes nuts."

The Organic House - Lavender & Maple 70% Cacao (bar) - June 22, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

The Organic House
Lavender & Maple 70% dark chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.25 oz. (35 g.) / 2.5 oz. (70 g.) in total bar
Calories: 198 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $13.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order

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

Today's Lavender & Maple 70% dark chocolate (bar) was made by The Organic House (Burlington, ON, Canada). The company produces a variety of bean-to-bar chocolates--including many with flavor inclusions and/or maple sugar from Ontario, Canada.

The Bon Bulak cacao (from Kablon Farms) used to make this bar was from the Philippines.

Aroma notes for this bar included: dark chocolate; maple; and clean, faintly fragrant lavender.

Texture: broke with a well-tempered snap first thing in the morning (65 degrees F.), and was smooth and creamy when warmed to 70 degrees (F.). All flavor inclusions were completely incorporated into the 70% dark chocolate. There was no maple sugar or floral grit, or any off-putting or astringent components.

Flavor notes included: an elegant blend of dark chocolate with a wonderful, balanced flux of lavender floral, maple and refreshing sweet fruit (purple/red grape).

I really liked the complementary flux of high-quality flavors including the culinary lavender and the subtle petit verdot grape note. I appreciated the short list of quality and organic ingredients; and I enjoyed the maker's tagline: "Let your taste buds travel."

Maker's tasting notes: "Porcini, sage, lilac, petit verdot" (Petit verdot is a purple wine grape.)

Ingredients: Organic cacao beans, Ontario maple sugar, Organic maple sugar, Culinary lavender

Allergen-related information: "May contain: Cashews, Hazelnuts, Oats, Pistachios"

Spring & Mulberry - Lavender Rose Date-Sweetend Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar) - June 21, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Spring & Mulberry 
Lavender Rose Date-Sweetened Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar) 
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 150 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $9.75 for 1 bar (part of a larger order)
Purchased from: Spring & Mulberry, online order

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

Today's Lavender Rose Date-Sweetened Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar) was made and distributed by Spring & Mulberry (Raleigh, NC). 

The company produces a variety of date-sweetened chocolates. (All but one of the bars I've tasted so far have also had flavor inclusions in addition to the dates--that some also consider a flavor inclusion.

Aroma notes for this bar included: dark chocolate, sweet green botanical (+ pollen/honey), dried fruit (date), and very faint lavender that increased significantly when I broke off another piece of this bar (with many more lavender buds).

Texture: relatively smooth chocolate texture with a very slight granularity (fruit astringency).

Flavor notes included: rich but smooth dark chocolate, rich date sweetness, and light/fleeting floral (mostly lavender, but that is to be expected as lavender is very aromatic). 

I appreciated the floral (lavender and light bee pollen) flavors; the rich sweet (but not overly sweet) taste of the dates; the visual appeal of the red rose petals; and the short list of quality and organic ingredients.

Ingredients: Cacao Beans*, Dates*, Cacao Butter*, Bee Pollen, Rose Petals, Lavender (* Organic)

Allergen-related information: "Made in a Facility That Also Handles Tree Nuts, Peanuts, Milk, Soy, and Wheat. Bee Pollen May Cause an Allergic Reaction. Not Recommended for Children Under One."

Fossa Chocolate - Honey Orchid Dancong Oolong 52% dark milk chocolate (bar) - June 20, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Fossa Chocolate
Honey Orchid Dancong Oolong 52% dark milk chocolate (bar) 
Good +++ - Very Good
Weight: 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 273 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $15.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order

Welcome to Day #7 of Chocolate and Tanzania Week, and Day #1 of Chocolate and Floral Theme Week. 

Happy Summer Solstice. I couldn't imagine a better bar to celebrate this spring-to-summer transition. 

Today's Honey Orchid Dancong Oolong 52% dark milk chocolate (bar) was made by Fossa Chocolate (Singapore). This collaboration with Pekoe & Imp (Singapore company specializing in single origin teas) was part of the Fossa's "Tea Chocolate" series.

Aroma notes for this tea-infused bar included: dark milk chocolate with subtle honey, orchid, faint stone fruit (peach, nectarine), and ripe guava. (It was a perfect sensory match with the bar's name.)

Texture: luxurious and creamy mouthfeel and melt

Flavor notes included: dark milk chocolate with blooming honey, floral, cream, oolong tea and fruit (peach, guava) notes.

I loved the aroma, creamy texture and complex, elegant, botanically authentic flavors that unfolded like a beautifully painted fan. This thoughtfully sourced and well-executed chocolate was fit for royalty.

Tasting Notes: "Floral fragrance layered with notes of guava and cream"

Ingredients: "Organic cacao, cane sugar, cocoa butter, milk powder, tea leaves"

Allergen-related information: "Contains dairy. Produced in a facility that processes nuts."

Dick Taylor - 65% Dark Tanzania Kilombero (bar) - June 19, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Dick Taylor Chocolate
65% Dark Tanzania Kilombero (bar)
Good ++  
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 2 oz. (57 g.) in total bar
Calories: 160 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $9.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: The Market at Edgewood, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #6 of Chocolate and Citrus Week, featuring a series of chocolates with citrus flavor inclusions.

Today's 65% Dark Tanzania Kilombero (bar) was made by Dick Taylor Chocolate (Eureka, CA)--founded by serial creatives and skilled chocolate makers Adam Dick and Dustin Taylor.

The cacao used to make this bar was from the Kilombero Valley in southern Tanzania.

When tasting chocolate, the smell and taste of a bar are usually very similar--only with richer, deeper chocolate flavor after you pop a piece of chocolate in your mouth. However, today's Tanzania bar was different.

The initial aroma notes for this bar included: bold (for a 65%er) dark chocolate (very slightly earthy, acrid/flat--vs. bright and fruity) when first  opened. 

However, the texture was very approachable and appealingly creamy. (Good sign.)

And the chocolate opened up with a bright burst of complex mixed red berry (raspberry, tart cherry) and citrus fruitiness. Considering the initial aroma and the flavors I was expecting, the authentic tart-sweet fruit blend (summoned by just three ingredients), had a Jolly Rancher candy* level brightness. (I associated some of this fruit brightness with Trinitario cacao varieties.)

Maker's tasting notes/description: "Cherry / Coffee / Lemon" 

Ingredients: Cacao*, Cane Sugar*, Cocoa Butter* (* Organic)

Allergen-related information: Processed on Equipment with milk, tree nuts, wheat and peanuts.  

*I have tasted cacao fruit pulp that surrounds (and is fermented with) the cacao seeds (beans) in Belize, Hawaii, Costa Rica and elsewhere. Depending on many factors (including cacao variety and terroir) the pulp may taste like mango, lychee, melon, citrus (orange, tangerine, lemon) and other fruits with berry notes. In Belize I tasted pulp that tasted to me just like watermelon Jolly Rancher candy.

The Jolly Rancher Candy Company started producing tart sweet fruit-flavored candies in 1949. They became part of the Hershey Company in 1996. Watermelon was one of my favorite flavors as a child.

Kassho Craft Chocolate - 70% Cacao Dark Chocolate Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar) - June 18, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Kessho Craft Chocolate
70% Cacao Dark Chocolate Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar)

Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1.05 oz. (30 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar 
Calories: 155 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $10.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Kessho, online order 

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

Today's 70% Cacao Dark Chocolate Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar) from Kessho, LLC was handcrafted in Austin, TX.

Cacao origin: Trinitario (variety) cacao beans from Kokoa Kamili, Kilombero Valley, in southern Tanzania.

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate and subtle diffuse fruit: berries, gentle citrus. 

Texture: smooth and creamy with an appealing, rich melt.

Flavor notes included: well-balanced dark bitter and bright sweet (tart-sweet fruity berries (bright, ripe strawberry, raspberry and other darker red berry).

I liked the balanced complexity, the authentically sweet and fruity (berry-forward) aroma and flavors, and the creamy texture.

Maker's tasting notes: "Berry, raspberry, citrus"

Ingredients: "Whole cacao beans, sugar, cocoa butter"

Allergen-related information: "Made in a facility that also processes milk, tree nuts, wheat, sesame and eggs. 

Fossa Chocolate - 100% Cacao Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar) - June 17, 2025

 Chocolate of the Day

Fossa Chocolate
Tanzania 100% Cacao Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar)
Good +++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 155 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $12.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order 

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

Today's Tanzania 100% Cacao Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar) was from Fossa Chocolate (Singapore). 

The company specializes in high-end, well-executed, bean-to-bar, chocolate bars (and confections for those in Singapore)--made with single origin cacao beans. Many bars feature Asian-inspired flavor inclusions (including lovely Oolong teas, traditional desserts as well as savory dishes). They also offer some single origin bars (like today's bar) with "just" cacao.

This unsweetened chocolate was made using cacao grown in the Kilombero Valley, a large "wetland area" in southern Tanzania with rich soils that benefit agriculture and grazing.

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate and fragrant, balanced fruit (citrus, ripe berry, wine grape).

Texture: smooth, buttery, almost silky; more creamy than most 100%ers.

Flavor notes included: balanced bitter and tart unsweetened, ultra-dark with hidden fruit, forest and nut treasures. 

Note: do savor this chocolate slowly and you'll get wonderful, small upticks in fruit flavor. (The muted, sweet Concord (purple) grape was a favorite. It gently peeked out and then receded over a 10-second period, about 2/3 the way through tasting a piece of this bar.)

This was a very enjoyable 100% bar with delicate sophisticated fruit aroma and flavor notes. For those dark chocolate fans not familiar with zero sugar cacao experiences: smell first, then take a small bite. Recover from your first impression: your brain was expecting sugar, and now has to adjust to what initially seems a bit dense, flat and bitter. But, then wait...With this Fossa single-origin Tanzania, single ingredient (just cacao) bar you'll be rewarded. 

Maker's tasting notes: "Lemon zest, Biscuit, Nuts"

Ingredients: "Organic cacao" 

Allergen-related information: "Produced in a facility that processes nuts & dairy." (Vegan, Gluten free, Sugar free)

Fruition Chocolate - Tanzania Latte Dark Milk Kokoa Kamili 61% (bar) - June 16, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Fruition Chocolate  
Tanzania Latte Dark Milk Kokoa Kamili 61% (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.12 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 165 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $12.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Fruition, online order

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

Today's Tanzania Latte Dark Milk Kokoa Kamili* 61% (bar) was from Fruition Chocolate Works (Shokan, NY). 

The cacao used to make this bar was from the Kilombero Valley in Tanzania. And "..this bar highlights Tanzanian Peaberry coffee, roasted locally by Heavyfeather" (Coffee Roasters) in Mt. Tremper, New York.

Aroma and flavor notes included: appealing, smooth dark milk chocolate and subtle, creamy cafe latte with faint vanilla and very faint, delicate caramel, wood and warm spice.

Texture: very smooth with a luxurious creamy melt.

I enjoyed the rich creaminess and subtle, sophisticated and complex flavors in this Tanzania Latte bar. This balanced chocolate will likely appeal to both milk and dark fans.

Ingredients: Cocoa Beans, Cane Sugar*, Cocoa Butter*, Whole Milk Powder, Coffee, Salt, Vanilla. (* = Organic)

Allergen-related information: "Contains Milk. May Contain Traces of Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Wheat, Eggs, Soy, Sesame."

*The makers "paid a premium for this special edition Kokoa Kamili, Tanzania Women's Lot of cocoa beans which will help fund scholarships for school girls from their village..."

Fossa Chocolate - Yuzu Sea Salt 54% Dark Milk Tanzania (bar) - June 13, 2025

 Chocolate of the Day

Fossa Chocolate
Yuzu Sea Salt 54% Dark Milk Tanzania (bar)
Good ++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 140.5 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $15.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order 

Welcome to Day #7 of Chocolate and Citrus Theme Week; and Day #2 of Chocolate and Tanzania Theme Week.

Today's Yuzu Sea Salt 54% Dark Milk Tanzania (bar) was made by Fossa Chocolate (Singapore).

Aroma notes included: creamy chocolate, chocolate and citrus cookie and very faint tea and caramel.

Texture: smooth, creamy (almost silky) dark milk chocolate accented by strips of candied yuzu peel.

Flavor notes included: satisfying, sophisticated and balanced dark milk chocolate (with cream, very faint caramel, nut and cookie); tart-sweet fruity and authentic-tasting candied yuzu peel; and tiny pulses of sea salt. 

The slightly stronger elements of the yuzu citrus fruit (peel) were presented in a subtle, sweet and very well-balanced way and complemented the chocolate nicely.

I liked the authentic yuzu citrus fruit flavor and the sprinkle of sea salt -- both of these elements balanced out the rich, buttery sweetness of the milk chocolate.

Maker's tasting notes: "Creamy, biscuity chocolate with refreshing citrusy aroma"

Ingredients: "Cacao, cane sugar, cocoa butter, milk powder, yuzu peel (yuzu peel, sugar, vitamin c), sea salt"

Allergen-related information: Contains milk. "Produced in a facility that processes nuts & dairy."

Kessho - Yuzu Dark Milk 56% Cacao Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar) - June 14, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Kessho 
Yuzu Dark Milk 56% Cacao Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar)

Good ++

Weight: 1.05 oz. (30 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 165.5 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $12.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Chocolate Dispensary, online order 

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate and Citrus Theme Week; and Day #1 of Chocolate and Tanzania Theme Week.

Today's Yuzu Dark Milk 56% Cacao Kokoa Kamili Tanzania (bar) from Kessho, LLC was handcrafted in Austin, TX.

Aroma notes included: dark milk chocolate (cream, nuts) and faint citrus. (Note: there were no nut ingredients.)

The texture was smooth and creamy; and the yuzu peel powder was fully integrated into cacao mass.

Flavor notes included: creamy dark milk chocolate (very faint caramel); very faint, diffuse stone fruit; and balanced bitter and tart notes. 

This was a satisfying and balanced dark milk chocolate with very subtle fruit and citrus.

Maker's flavor profile (tasting notes): "Red fruit, berries, plums, citrus"

Ingredients: "Whole cacao beans, sugar, cocoa butter, whole milk powder, yuzu peel powder"

Allergen-related information: Contains milk. Made in a facility that also processes tree nuts, wheat, sesame and eggs.

Spring & Mulberry - Bergamot Date Sweetened Chocolate - 72% Cacao (bar) - June 13, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Spring & Mulberry 
Bergamot Date-Sweetened Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 160 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $7.75 for 1 bar (includes discount for buying 6 or more bars)

Purchased from: Spring & Mulberry, online order

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

Today's Bergamot Date Sweetened Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar) was created and distributed by Spring & Mulberry (Raleigh, NC).

Aroma notes for this bar included: dark chocolate with diffuse floral and aromatic citrus.

Texture: relatively smooth with a very fine granularity. (The dates were completely incorporated into the chocolate.)

Flavor notes included: similar to the aroma notes above, only with a deeper, fudgier chocolate taste. The cacao and date blend gave the chocolate a dense, relatively hearty and balanced flavor, while still being fairly low in bitterness and acidity.

I enjoyed the authentic, aromatic floral (faint lavender) and tea-associated citrus (bergamot orange) notes; the satisfying dark chocolate (and the fact the chocolate wasn't overly sweet). 

I also appreciated the short list of high-quality organic ingredients and essential oils. This chocolate would likely pair well with Earl Grey lavender tea (or an unflavored, fine oolong tea).

Ingredients: Cacao Beans*, Dates*, Cacao Butter*, Bergamot Essential Oil*, Lavender Essential Oil* (* = Organic)

Allergen-related information: Made in a Facility That Also Handles Tree Nuts, Peanuts, Milk, Soy, and Wheat

 

Spring & Mulberry - Blood Orange Date Sweetened Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar) - June 12, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Spring & Mulberry 
Blood Orange Date Sweetened Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 160 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $7.75 for 1 bar (includes discount for buying 6 or more bars)

Purchased from: Spring & Mulberry, online order

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

Today's Blood Orange Date Sweetened Chocolate 72% Cacao (bar) was created and distributed by Spring & Mulberry (Raleigh, NC).

Aroma notes included: chocolate cookie, sweet dried fruit (date), faint tangy citrus, and even fainter fruit floral (orange blossom) and sweet green herbal.

Texture: relatively smooth with a very fine granularity. (The dates were completely incorporated into the chocolate.)

Flavor notes included: similar to the aroma notes above, only with a deeper, fudgier chocolate experience with citrus (orange peel, fruit and very faint orange blossom).

I liked the hearty, balanced chocolate and date flavors coupled with the more delicate, authentic-tasting orange. And I appreciated the short list of organic ingredients.

Ingredients: Cacao Beans*, Dates*, Cacao Butter*, Orange Essential Oil* (* = Organic)

Allergen-related information: Made in a Facility That Also Handles Tree Nuts, Peanuts, Milk, Soy, and Wheat

Elements Truffles - Orange Crunch Dark Chocolate (bar) - June 11, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Elements Truffles
Orange Crunch Dark Chocolate 70% Cacao (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: .9 oz. (25 g.) / 1.8 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 140 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $8.00 for 1 bar (part of a 4-pk. order)
Purchased from: Amazon, online order 

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

Today's Orange Crunch Dark Chocolate 70% Cacao (bar) was from Elements Truffles (Union City, NJ).

The cacao used to make this chocolate was "Fair trade cacao ethically sourced from Ecuador."

Aroma and flavor notes for this bar included: dark chocolate, subtle sweet citrus and slightly savory spice (turmeric) -- e.g. the very faint aroma of pickled peppers/beets and barely detectable earthy, spiced lentils. The chocolate was balanced and smooth in flavor.

Texture: this chocolate was smooth with a creamy (cocoa butter and honey) melt and mouthfeel with occasional softly crunchy/crispy quinoa pieces.

I enjoyed the relatively short list of quality and organic ingredients; the subtlety of the flavors; and the honey (smooth texture and subtle sweetness). Those with a sweet tooth may miss the customary refined sugar; but I was fine without the sugar buzz. 

And I appreciated the addition of turmeric, in the Ayurvedic tradition (for health).* This ground spice imparted a distinct flavor, but wasn't too overwhelming.

Ingredients: Organic Cacao Butter, Raw Honey, Organic Cacao Powder, Organic Puffed Quinoa, Organic Turmeric Powder, Orange Essential Oil

Allergen-related information: Made in a facility that processes nuts

*Turmeric contains curcumin which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. (Curcumin can interfere with certain cellular signaling pathways associated with inflammation, and may inhibit certain inflammatory enzymes.)

Dick Taylor Chocolate - Lemon & Bergamot 65% Belize (bar) - June 10, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Dick Taylor Chocolate
Lemon & Bergamot 65% Belize (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++ 
Weight: 2 oz. (57 g.) in total bar
Calories: 300 calories in 1 bar
Cost: $9.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order

Welcome to Day #4 of Chocolate and Citrus Week, featuring a series of chocolates with citrus flavor inclusions.

Today's Dick Taylor Lemon & Bergamot 65% Belize (bar) was made by Dick Taylor Chocolate (Eureka, CA)--a company founded by serial creatives and skilled chocolate makers Adam Dick and Dustin Taylor.

The cacao used to make this bar was sourced from Maya Mountain Cacao in southern Belize, a region steeped in cacao cultivation history.

Aroma and flavor notes included: sweet citrus (lemon); smooth, very slightly fruity dark chocolate; and faint fruity-floral tea (bergamot) notes.

This chocolate bar broke with a well-tempered snap, and was quite smooth in texture, melt and mouthfeel. Sprinkled across the back of the bar: tiny sparkles of crystallized, lemon-flavored sugar.   

This bright citrus star of a bar would make an excellent dessert bar after a meal, or a high-end snack. It was sweet (without being overly so) and relatively addictive. 

Maker's tasting notes/description: "Tart crystallized lemon and a hint of bergamot oil are mixed into our silky 65% Belize dark chocolate. The blend of bergamot and lemon creates a perfect balance of citrus brightness and floral undertones." 

Ingredients: Cacao*, Cane Sugar*, Cocoa Butter*, Crystallized Lemon (Citric Acid, Lemon Oil, Lemon Juice), Bergamot Oil (* Organic)

Allergen-related information: Processed on Equipment with milk, tree nuts, wheat and peanuts. 

Argencove Fine Chocolate - Cardamom & Orange 70% Cacao Dark Chocolate Nicaragua (bar) - June 9, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Argencove Fine Chocolate
Cardamom & Orange 70% Cacao Dark Chocolate Nicaragua (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 273 calories (estimate) in 1 bar
Cost: $16.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Chocolate Dispensary, online order

Welcome to Day #3 of Chocolate and Citrus Week.

Today's Cardamom & Orange 70% Dark Chocolate Nicaragua (bar) was from Argencove Fine Chocolate (Granada, Nicaragua).*

Aroma notes for today's spice and citrus bar included: fragrant cardamom, slightly savory spice, orange and subtle, almost buttery dark chocolate.

Texture: relatively soft, creamy, and smooth. The cardamom and orange were completely incorporated into the chocolate.

Flavor notes were enjoyably complex and balanced and included: smooth dark chocolate infused with balanced sweet-tart citrus (orange), spice (cardamom), and very faint slightly earthy floral-herbal (think saffron, cardamom and turmeric vegetable stew with rice).

I loved the blend of unique, complex and complementary spice, citrus and cacao notes, and the

short list of quality and local (Nicaragua-grown) ingredients.

Ingredients: Cacao, sugar, cocoa butter, cardamom, orange.

Allergen-related information: May contain traces of peanuts and/or tree nuts due to shared equipment.

*Manufactured by C y B Productos Agricolas S.A. (Granada, Nicaragua).

The Organic House - Chocolate Covered Maple Candied Orange Slices - June 8, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

The Organic House 
Chocolate Covered Maple Candied Orange Slices
Good + - Good ++ 
Weight: .706 oz. (20 g.) / 3.52 oz. (100 g.) in total package 
Calories: 70 calories (estimate) in 1 piece/slice 
Cost: $22.00 for 1 package
Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order 

Welcome to Day #2 of Chocolate and Citrus Week.

Today's Chocolate Covered Maple Candied Orange Slices were from The Organic House (Burlington, Ontario, Canada). 

The company is a bean-to-bar chocolate maker that specializes in vegan, gluten- and dairy-free, and organic chocolate bars and confections made with ethically-sourced cacao.

Aroma notes for today's chocolate and maple sugar covered, dehydrated orange slices included: citrus (orange, orange peel), maple sugar cake and dark chocolate.

Texture: chewy, authentic orange slices; lightly textured, authentic maple sugar and coconut flower nectar; partly covered by a smooth dark chocolate. 

Flavor notes included: high-quality, authentic maple sugar and dried orange slices flavor, and smooth dark chocolate. The maple and coconut flower nectar added a rich flavor of their own as well.

I appreciated the short list of quality, local (Ontario maple sugar) ingredients.  

Ingredients: "Oranges, Ontario maple sugar, cacao beans, coconut flower nectar, cacao butter"

Allergen-related information: Made in a facility that uses tree nuts. "Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten Free"

Mirzam - 62% Dark Chocolate with Candied Oranges & Orange Infused Toffee (bar) - June 7, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Mirzam Chocolate Makers
62% Dark Chocolate with Candied Oranges & Orange Infused Toffee (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.23 oz. (35 g.) / 2.47 oz. (70 g.) in total bar
Calories: 73 calories in 1/2 bar (per label - 208 kcals per 100 g.)
Cost: $18.50 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order

Welcome to Day #1 of Chocolate & Citrus Week, featuring bars and confections with a citrus flavor inclusion.

Today's 62% Dark Chocolate with Candied Oranges & Orange Infused Toffee (bar) from Mirzam Chocolate Makers was "made from bean bar in Dubai, United Arab Emirates" -- "crafted in collaboration with: @zandzdc."

Aroma notes included: lovely aromatic orange (ripe orange fruit, candied orange peel) and dark chocolate.

Texture: lots of crunchy orange toffee bits and creamy smooth dark chocolate.

Flavor notes included: orange-infused toffee bits encased in a smooth dark chocolate bar. 

Citrus lovers will really appreciate this high-end exotic citrus bar. This was a well-executed and balanced orange-zilla dark chocolate confection. The orange had some authentic zing but was not bitter or acidic. The dark chocolate balanced and complemented the sweet citrus elements, and played more of a supporting role. 

Ingredients: Cocoa beans, unrefined cane sugar, cocoa butter, butter, orange sweet oil, orange peel, glucose.

Allergen-related information: Contains dairy (butter). May contain traces of nuts and gluten. 

Sjaak's Organic Chocolates - Puffed Quinoa (bar) - June 6, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Sjaak's Organic Chocolates
Puffed Quinoa Melk (R) Chocolate (bar)
Good + - Good ++
Weight: .5 oz. (14.1 g.) / 1 oz. (28 g.) in 1 bar
Calories: 80 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $1.87 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Country Sun Natural Foods, Palo Alto, CA

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

Today's Puffed Quinoa Melk (R) Chocolate Bar was from Sjaak's Chocolates (Petaluma, CA).*

The company was one of the first producers of organic and alternative milk (rice milk) chocolates that I became aware of two decades ago--when I started Chocolate Banquet.

Aroma notes included: subtle cocoa, faint vanilla and faint nut/seed/rice.  

Texture: creamy and crunchy

I liked the gentle flavors; this rice, almond and quinoa likely softened the cacao flavor. The smaller bar size was nice too. And the sweetness level was about right--it was sweet, but somehow not overly so.

Ingredients: Melk Chocolate* (Cocoa Butter*, Rice Milk Powder*, Cane Sugar*, Cocoa Liquor*, Almonds*, Vanilla Bean Powder*), Puffed Quinoa*. (* = Organic)

Allergen-related information: Contains: Almonds

*Sjaak's chocolate shop origins dates back to 1988 with a fine chocolate shop in Eureka, CA. Although founder-owner Jacques Holten's interest in chocolate extends back much further, to his European roots.

In 2004, Jacques and his daughter founded Sjaak's Organic Chocolates with a focus on vegan and Organic chocolates. Sjaak's closed down in their Petaluma location over a year ago; and this chocolate was expired by the time I tasted it. But it still tasted ok to me.

Mezcla - Puff-Crispy Bar - Italian Pistachio Chocolate - June 5, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Mezcla 
Puff-Crispy Bar - Italian Pistachio Chocolate
Good + - Good ++ 
Weight: 1.40 oz. (40 g.) in 1 bar/package
Calories: 170 calories in 1 bar/package 
Cost: $2.99 for 1 bar/package

Purchased from: Whole Foods Market, Fremont, CA

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

Today's Mezcla Puff-Crispy (TM) Bar Italian Pistachio Chocolate with pea protein, almond butter & quinoa (bar) was distributed by Eat Mezcla Inc. (NY, NY).

Aroma and flavor notes included: chocolate, sweetened cereal, seed, nut, and very faint vanilla/cookie.

Texture: satisfying crispy and crunchy texture. It was light, yet I had a substantial feeling of satiety that comes with a higher protein offering. Smooth almond butter and dark chocolate complemented the crunchy pea protein and quinoa crisps.

This attractively packaged bar provided a convenient source of portable protein (10 grams in 1 bar). 

The pistachio nuts (and hazelnuts) were very subtle; so much so that I almost missed them; but (along with the almond butter) these nuts contributed a nutty background flavor. Other than possibly the "Natural Flavor",* the ingredients list looked quite healthy and authentic.

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

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

*Natural Flavor(s) includes a broad category of additives derived from plants and animals and are often added to processed foods. Apologies to the maker, but I find bars with added "Natural Flavor(s)" do not taste as good.

Justin's - Crispy Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups - June 4, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Justin's, LLC 
Organic Crispy Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups 
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.32 oz. (37 g.) in total package of 2 cups
Calories: 210 calories in 1 package (2 cups)
Cost: $2.29 for 1 package
Purchased from: The Market at Edgewood, Palo Alto, CA

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

Today's Organic Crispy Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups were distributed by: Justin's, LLC (Boulder, CO).

Aroma and flavor notes included: relatively high-quality, balanced dark chocolate, subtle peanut/peanut butter, and faint fruit (authentic fruit (peach, berry), fruity cereal).

Texture: creamy chocolate coating with a slightly thicker/stiffer peanut butter filling, topped with crunchy quinoa pieces.

I enjoyed this updated take on classic* peanut butter cups; the flavorful and balanced chocolate used; the textural blend of creamy chocolate, peanut butter and crunchy quinoa; and the thoughtful list of quality and organic ingredients.

Ingredients: Organic Dark Chocolate (Organic Evaporated Cane Sugar, Organic Cacao Beans*, Organic Cocoa Butter*, Organic Sunflower Lecithin [Emulsifier]), Organic Peanut Butter (Organic Ground Peanuts), Organic Cane Sugar, Organic Quinoa, Organic Peanut Flour, Organic Palm Oil, Sea Salt, Organic Sunflower Lecithin. (*Rainforest Alliance Certified) 

Allergen-related information: Contain Peanuts. Produced on Equipment That Also Processes Tree Nuts and Milk.

Harry Burnett Reese, a former employee of Milton Hershey, has been credited with inventing the peanut butter cup in 1928. A century later, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups continue to be a candy staple, and the still-successful original continues to inspire many variations.

Simply Gum - Peanut Butter Crispies - June 3, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Simply Gum

Peanut Butter Crispies 
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.625 oz. (46 g.) / 4.7 oz. (133 g.) in total package
Calories: 240 calories in 2 pieces
Cost: $7.99 for 1 package of 6 pieces
Purchased from: Farm Fresh, online order 

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

Today's Peanut Butter Crispies were from Simply Gum Inc. (Brooklyn, NY).

Aroma and flavor notes included: peanut, chocolate and toffee. 

In texture, aroma and taste these small bars were similar to a Butterfinger* candy bar--made with higher quality (darker) chocolate, quinoa and brown rice, and a lighter (less dense), crispy texture. All this with a shorter list of ingredients.

These treat-sized bars evoked great childhood chocolate memories. The only downside: these were quite addicting. If you open up this relatively large package (that contains an inviting sea of unwrapped bars), you may be tempted to eat more than planned.

I enjoyed the balanced and complementary blend of flavors and textures; and I appreciated the list of quality ingredients and the absence of extra additives--true to the "Simply" company name and mission.

Maker's description: "Our Peanut Butter Crisps are a lighter take on a classic candy -- think nut butter cup meets rice crispies..."

Ingredients: Dark Chocolate (Cocoa Mass, Organic Coconut Sugar, Cocoa Butter), Peanut Flour, Organic Coconut Sugar, Organic Cocoa Butter, Roasted Peanuts, Quinoa, Organic Brown Rice, Coconut Oil, Peanut Oil, Organic Vanilla Bean, Sea Salt

Allergen-related information: Contains Peanuts, Coconut. Manufactured in a facility with products that may contain milk, tree nuts and/or peanuts. Gluten Free. 

*The Butterfinger candy bar was created in 1923 by the Curtiss Candy Company. In the past this brand was owned by Standard Brands, Nabisco and Nestle. Ferrero Group became the latest owner in the U.S. in 2018. It is manufactured internationally by Nestle.

Fruition Chocolate Works - Zorzal Eco Reserve 73% Dark Chocolate with Puffed Quinoa, Candied Sunflower Seeds, Wild Blueberry & Citrus (bar) - June 2, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Fruition Chocolate Works
Zorzal Eco Reserve 73% Dark Chocolate with Puffed Quinoa, Candied Sunflower Seeds, Wild Blueberry & Citrus (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.12 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 164 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $15.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Fruition, online order

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

Today's Zorzal Eco Reserve 73% Dark Chocolate with Puffed Quinoa, Candied Sunflower Seeds, Wild Blueberry & Citrus (bar) was from Fruition Chocolate Works (Shokan, NY).

The cacao used to make this bar was grown on a cacao farm in a bird reserve in the Dominican Republic. The certified "Bird Friendly"* cacao farm designated as "forever wild" inspired the makers to create this bird seed bar.

Aroma and flavor included: rich, sweet (slightly fruity) dark chocolate, seed, nut; dried dark berry (blueberry) and very faint citrus. (Note: this bar did not contain nuts.)

Texture: smooth dark chocolate (covered with a dense riot of) softly crunchy sunflower seeds, interspersed with small chewy fruit pieces (blueberries). Tiny rounds of puffed quinoa added additional, subtle texture.

I enjoyed the blend of flavors--an elevated homage to cacao and birds (and very high-quality bird seed).

Ingredients: Dark Chocolate (cocoa beans*, cane sugar*, cocoa butter*), Sunflower Seeds, Wild Blueberries, Puffed Quinoa, Lemon Zest, Sugar, Citric Acid, Citrus Essential Oils (* Organic)

Allergen-related information: Contains sunflower seeds. May contain traces of milk, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and sesame.

*As designated/certified by the Smithsonian National Zoo and Smithsonian Bird Center. This honor is being bestowed on coffee and cacao growing areas/plantations that meet certain agroforestry and forest conservation criteria.

Antidote - Quinoa Crunch 70 Dark (bar) - June 1, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Antidote
Quinoa Crunch 70 Dark (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.15 oz. (32.5 g.) / 2.3 oz. (65 g.) in total bar
Calories: 190 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $9.00 of 1 bar
Purchased from: Antidote, online order

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

Today's "Queens of Paradise" - Quinoa Crunch 70 Dark (bar) was from Antidote (Brooklyn, NY).

Aroma notes included: pleasing dark chocolate aroma (with sweet green/fruit) plus malted cereal.

Texture: well-tempered, smooth dark chocolate covered with a layer of crunchy popped quinoa.

Flavor notes included: sweet dark chocolate (with faint fruit/citrus); light, toasted cereal; and a slight bitterness--making the taste balanced bitter (bordering on sharp earth) and sweet in toward the finish.

The overall appearance was nice, and the tiny, golden brown puffed quinoa layer was generous, attractive (golden brown) and well-executed. (The quinoa  didn't crumble off in my lap, thank you.) 

I also appreciated the use of Arriba Nacional cacao, which gave it a complexity beyond most bulk/couverture chocolates.

Ingredients: Dark Chocolate: 70% cacao Arriba Nacional...cacao beans, whole cane sugar, cacao butter, popped quinoa, sunflower lecithin.

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