Karu - Jungle Dark 85% Cacao Villa Sofia, Cordoba, Colombia (bar) - June 20, 2026

Chocolate of The Day

Karu Chocolates

Jungle Dark - 85% Cacao Villa Sofia, Cordoba, Colombia (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: .53 oz. (15 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar 
Calories: 70 calories in 1/4 bar 
Cost: $13.00 for 1 bar 
Purchased from: Xocolatl Garden, Carmel, CA

Welcome to Day #5 of Chocolate & Earth, Mountains, Forests & Gardens Theme Week. 

Today's Karu Chocolates Jungle Dark 85% Cacao Via Sofia, Cordoba, Colombia (bar) was made in Bogota, Colombia, and distributed (in the U.S.) by Tropicalia LLC. 

Aroma and flavor notes for this hearty, ultra-dark bar included: dark chocolate (deep, chocolate-y), peppers, and dried fruit (cacao pulp, mango, dark berry).

Texture: thick, rich and creamy melt and mouthfeel

I loved the deep and balanced aroma and flavor notes, and that this bar wasn't too sweet (thank you) or too bitter for an 85%er. 

Last, but not least, this bar was made--with a short list of (just two) ingredients--"in country" (in the same country where the cacao was grown).

Ingredients: Cacao, unrefined cane sugar

Allergen-related information: "Produced in facilities processing milk and nuts"

Juan Choconat - Chocolate Oscuro 85% Cacao (bar) - Jan. 15, 2026

Chocolate of the Day

Juan Choconat
Chocolate Oscuro 85% Cacao (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1.15 oz. (32.5 g.) / 2.3 oz. (65 g.) in total bar
Calories: 134 calories in 1/2 bar (per label)
Cost: $7.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Elebar Snacks, online order

Welcome to Day #9 of Chocolate & Colombia Theme Week. 

Today's Chocolate Oscuro (Dark Chocolate) 85% (Unroasted) Cacao (bar) was made by Juan Choconat SAS (Ibague, Tolima, Colombia) and imported by Elebar Snacks LLC (with locations in Illinois and Clearwater, FL).

This bar was one of several Jaun Choconat bars ordered online (via an importer) in Aug. 2025 -- when new U.S. tariffs* on many imported goods became effective. (Spoiler alert: It wasn't the best time to order heat-sensitive products made outside the U.S.)

Aroma and flavor notes for this 85% ("creole" hybrid Colombian) cacao bar included: surprisingly gentle, chocolate-y, dark chocolate with appealing, soft toned fruits (cherries + other red berries, stone fruit), cherry pie, faint spice and very faint vegetable (potato) and barely detectable fresh bread.

There was some bitterness in this chocolate (expected for any 85%er). But this "bitterness" was oddly and seductively enjoyable. I've only found these gentle flavors with criollo cacao-based chocolates before. It was absolutely more balanced and less bitter (or acidic) than most 85% cacao chocolates, because of the cacao; and the makers used unroasted cacao (to preserve nutrients and more delicate flavors present in heritage, criollo cacaos). There were also no harsh/burnt notes that can sometimes result from over-roasting.

Texture: Broke with a snap and had a fairly creamy melt and smooth texture. 

As noted above this chocolate was held up due to changes in tariffs* last August, and was likely allowed to sit in a warm place -- based on the white-ish, bloomed appearance. This can happen very quickly if chocolates sit in the hot sun on a loading dock somewhere too long. Any prolonged delays can impact product quality.

Because of these challenges, I was grateful that today's bar still broke with a snap and had a very nice smooth melt and mouthfeel. And the flavors were wonderful. (The packaging for each individual bar had remained sealed.)

The makers used only two ingredients (no added cocoa butter) to coax out these lovely, authentic cacao flavors.

Ingredients: Unroasted Cacao Nibs and Unrefined Cane Sugar (Panela).

Allergen-related information: "May Contain Traces of Fruit, Milk or Nuts."

*New U.S. tariffs went into effect in April and August 2025 that affected imported goods from other countries.  

U.S. importers usually are the ones to pay tariffs...to the "U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP)" -- and this agency reports to U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security. 

Cacao prices were already at record highs in 2025. So tariffs were not welcome news to most of us.

By fall 2025 (and likely with helpful input from large chocolate makers like Hershey's), lawmakers were likely reminded that the U.S. only grows less than 0.0001% of all the world's cacao--approximately 179 acres in Hawaii and 100 acres in Puerto Rico. We need to import the rest from cacao-growing countries so U.S. chocolatiers and chocolate makers can make chocolates; U.S. workers can keep their jobs; and customers can find their favorite chocolates on shelves or online.

The cacao tariffs were lifted a few months later, in Nov. 2025. (Although certain tariffs remained on West African cacao (where most of the world's cacao is grown.) And the overall tariff situation remains somewhat dynamic.

Throughout this period of volatility, I wondered how all the changes in recent years have affected cacao farmers. It's difficult to know from thousands of miles away here in California.

Also, every Juan Choconat bar that I ordered online in August 2025 was shown as "sold out" (today). 

"Sold out" can mean many things, so it's no use speculating. A company is struggling to meet demand for high-quality products that are in short supply; a company is taking a break from making chocolate after a busy holiday season; supply chain issues are being worked out; a company is thinking about whether to continue to make chocolate; etc. I hope these will be back in stock soon.

Choco Del Mar - Tumaco 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate (bar) - Jan. 14, 2026

Chocolate of the Day

Choco Del Mar
Tumaco 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.76 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 150 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $11.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Choco Del Mar, online order 

Welcome to Day #8 of Chocolate & Colombia Theme Week.

Today's Tumaco 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate (bar) was from Choco Del Mar (Los Altos, CA).

Aroma and flavor notes for this Colombia bar included: chocolate-y dark chocolate; faint forest (pine); and extremely faint licorice, molasses, floral, and smoke-y fruit (umami berry (golden berry)) and nut. This bar had a gentle, chocolate-y finish.

Texture: smooth, almost creamy texture with a satisfying melt

I liked the aroma and flavor complexity, the balanced (and relatively low) bitterness, and the natural sweetness that shone through--even given it was an 85% cacao (extra dark) chocolate. 

Maker's description: "Sourced from Colombia's lush Pacific coast, this bar offers a smooth journey of deep chocolatey richness, with gentle nutty undertones and light fruit notes."

Ingredients: Cocoa Nibs, Cane Sugar, Cocoa Butter

Allergen-related information: Made in a facility that processes milk, nuts, and other common allergens.

Xocolatl - 85% Dark Chocolate Peru (bar) - Aug. 22, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Xocolatl
85% Dark Chocolate Peru (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.3 oz. (37.5 g.) / 2.6 oz. (75 g.) in total bar
Calories: 200 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $11.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Xocolatl, online order

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

Today's 85% Dark Chocolate Peru (bar) was made from bean-to-bar by Xocolatl LLC (Atlanta, GA). 

This ultra-dark 85% cacao bar follows the 70% Dark Chocolate Peru (bar). Both these Xocolatl bars were made using Pangoa Peru cacao that was "directly sourced from the Cooperativa Agraria Cafetalera, a cooperative of coffee & cacao farmers in Pangoa, Peru." (San Martin de Pangoa is located in the Central Amazon region of Peru.)

Aroma notes for this bar included: dark, dense chocolate with faint, dried fruit; very faint fleeting (not unpleasant) umami (only after first unwrapped); and black licorice.

Flavor notes included: deep, very dark (yet still balanced) chocolate; robust cocoa/well-done brownies with embers of tart fruit (cherry + lemon marmalade). Very faint warm spice. Medium-to-long finish.

The brighter flavors in yesterday's 70% version of this dark chocolate reminded me of "a Trinitario-like cacao variety--with relatively bold cocoa, fruit and citrus notes; and less like some Forastero cacao varieties that are more dark and dense (less 3-dimensional, with less complex fruit)."

Today's 85% bar still had the fruity heart of a bold Trinitario cacao, even though it was bolder and denser.

I appreciated the balanced fullness of this ultra-dark chocolate infused with rich, stewed fruit (citrus/lemon marmalade with prune, stone fruit, cherry) flavors--all conjured from just three organic ingredients. 

I really enjoyed comparing yesterdays' sweet 70% sibling (made with cacao from the same Peru co-operative) with today's 85% more somber, less bright, less sunny and less sweet version. Pairing the two was enlightening, and would make a very educational side-by-side pair for a chocolate tasting/class.

Maker's Tasting Notes: "Profile: Bright, clean citrus with lively acidity & low sweetness"

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

Allergen-related information: Made on equipment that processes peanuts, soy, wheat & tree nuts (almond, coconut, hazelnut, pecan). Vegan.

 

Chocolat Madagascar - Mokarana Honey Fine Dark Chocolate 85% Cacao (bar) - May 16, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Chocolat Madagascar
Mokarana Honey Fine Dark Chocolate 85% Cacao (bar)

Good ++
Weight: 1.325 oz. (37.5 g.) / 2.65 oz. (75 g.) in total bar
Calories: 222 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar 
Cost: $13.00 for 1 bar 

Purchased from: Bar & Cocoa, online order 

Welcome to Day #9 of Chocolate, Bees and Trees Theme Week.

Today's Mokarana Honey Fine Dark Chocolate 85% Cacao (bar)--made with Cacao Grand Cru de Sambirano--was from Chocolat Madagascar (United Kingdom). 

The company is based in the UK, but the chocolate was crafted (tree-to-bar/"in country") by Chocolaterie Robert (Antananarivo, Madagascar).

Aroma notes included: chocolate, faint spice and very faint banana bread and sweet green seed/nut.

Texture: relatively soft, velvety dark chocolate

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate fudge brownie with honey.

I enjoyed the gently complex aroma and flavor elements: fudge brownie, honey, spice, fruit (banana), and that the chocolate wasn't too sweet--or too bitter for an ultra-dark 85% cacao bar. 

Ingredients: Madagascar cocoa beans, Mokarana Honey. (Madagascar Origin)."

Allergen-related information: "May contain milk, soya & cashew nuts."

Cuna de Piedra - 85% Mexican Cacao (Soconusco, Chiapas) (bar) - Mar. 12, 2025

Chocolate of the Day

Cuna de Piedra
85% Mexican Cacao (Soconusco, Chiapas) (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1.41 oz. (40 g.) / 2.1 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 160 calories in 2/3 bar
Cost: $10.99 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Caputo's, online order

Welcome to Day #13 of Chocolate and Mexico Theme Week.

Today's 85% Mexican Cacao (Soconusco, Chiapas) bar was from Cuna de Piedra (Monterrey, N.L, Mexico).

The cacao used to make this chocolate was from the 28-member RAYEN co-operative in Soconusco, Chiapas, Mexico. Harvest information: "Dry Season, Harvest 2022"

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate with spice, diffuse fruit and floral including red fruit (red berry, candied watermelon, kiwi, citrus), and very faint, fleeting lemon cookie and cream.* The very subtle floral notes reminded me of wild orchids, very faint jasmine, honey, and other tropical flowers.

This ultra-dark 85% bar had substantial and balanced, natural fruit sweet-tartness (relatively bright, candied fruits)--the opposite of the heavier "brown" dried fruits often found in darker, denser chocolates. It was also one of the most subtle and complex 85%ers I've tasted. Taking that one step further, it was one of the more interesting and unique chocolates I've ever tasted. 

And I do mean that in a very good way. The very nuanced flavors in this chocolate (created from just two ingredients) were complex and special.

The bars from southern Mexico this week have provided a form of virtual travel. You won't find these on store shelves, as most of these are micro-batch, limited edition bars. Thank you to all the growers and makers who made these amazing chocolates possible.

Ingredients: Cacao beans, Cane sugar.

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

*Some heritage and Criollo cacaos are known for their more delicate fruit and cream notes. There were no dairy ingredients in this bar.

Honoka'a Chocolate - 85% Cacao Hawaiian Dark Chocolate (bar) - Nov. 24, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Honoka'a Chocolate
85% Cacao Hawaiian Dark Chocolate (bar) 
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 2 oz. (57 g.) in total bar 
Calories: 180 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $15.00 (estimate) (3rd of 3-bar trio for $45.00)
Purchased from: Honoka'a Chocolate, online order

Welcome to Day #18 of Chocolate and Hawaii Theme Week.

Today's 85% Cacao Hawaiian Dark Chocolate (bar) was from Honoka'a Chocolate (Honoka'a, HI).

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate (dark ganache, dark cocoa); very faint and fleeting milk/cream, marshmallow, brown sugar, and sweet green herb; and very and faint diffuse sweet green nut and floral--the latter disappeared fairly quickly after exposure to air for several minutes.

Texture: silky smooth, with a luxuriously thick mouthfeel and melt--like other bars from Honoka'a. I'm guessing the cacao(s) were naturally high in cocoa butter. (Often the case in Hawaii, located farther than 20 degrees Latitude (from the Equator).*

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate; very faint, diffuse and fleeting fruit (tropical fruit, very faint and buttery avocado); and barely detectable yogurt/earth (faint loam). Overall the flavor was very smooth for an 85%er. I was really leaning in to try to pick up the more subtle notes--not typical for most high-percentage bars with stronger, more intense flavors.

The sweetness level was relatively moderate-high and the bitterness and astringency levels were relatively low for a high-percentage cacao bar like this.

Oddly, there was less earthy flavor in this 85% cacao bar than the 65% and 70% Hawaiian cacao-based bars from this same maker, featured in the past few days. 

The turbinado cane sugar added a bit of brown sugar flavor and possibly a slightly tangy note. (It was hard to tell if this was from the sugar or the cacao.) I plan to share this 85% bar with a few dark milk chocolate fans who are uncomfortable with high-intensity dark chocolates. 

I enjoyed the subtle, natural complexity; the remarkable buttery texture; the use of Hawaiian cacao; and the short list of only two ingredients. 

Ingredients: "100% Hawai'i island cacao, organic turbinado cane sugar."

Allergen-related information: ("dairy free")  

*Hawaii is sometimes referred to as the North Pole for growing cacao. Almost all of the world's cacao is grown closer to (less than 20 degrees from) the Equator. And most of that (probably at least 70-75%) comes from less than 10 degrees from the Equator. 

Spinnaker Chocolate - 85% Colombia (bar) - Sept. 21, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Spinnaker Chocolate
85% Colombia (bar)
Good +++
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 2 oz. (57 g.) in total bar
Calories: 130 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $11.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Spinnaker Chocolate, online order

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

Today's 85% Colombia (bar) was from Spinnaker Chocolate (Seattle, WA).

Aroma notes included: creamy dark chocolate/milk chocolate with chocolate-y; diffuse stone fruit and berry notes; and very faint clean, green, borderline floral.

Texture: smooth, even texture and thick, luxe melt.

Flavor notes included: fudge-y dark chocolate (bittersweet torte/ultra-dark ganache), diffuse dark fruit, and bitter caramel; and a light, fleeting nuttiness and fruit in the long finish. 

I enjoyed this chocolate ride! The balanced, broad variety of interesting complex cacao notes. Sweet tooth fans may not appreciate the slight bitter quality that arrives in the taste (after the promise of sweet milk, caramel and fruit in the aroma); but I love a well-executed flavor fest that honors all the wonderful aspects of cacao.

Maker's tasting notes: "Even with 85% cacao, the Colombia beans are mild, delicious, and wonderfully fudgey..."

Ingredients: Cacao, Organic Cane Sugar, Cocoa Butter

Allergen-related information: Processed in a facility that uses milk powder and nuts.

Cacao & Cardamom - Health Freak Tumaco Colombia 85% Cacao (bar) - Sept. 14, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Cacao & Cardamom
"Health Freak" Single Origin Tumaco Colombia 85% Cacao (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 3.52 oz. (100 g.) in 1 bar
Calories: 546 calories (estimate) in 1 bar
Cost: $12.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Cacao & Cardamom, online order

Welcome to Day #2 of Chocolate and Colombia Theme Week, and one last doff of the hat to Chocolate and Seeds Theme Week. (Find the hidden six seeds in this bar.*)

Today's "Health Freak" Single Origin Tumaco Colombia 85% Cacao (bar) was from Cacao & Cardamom (Houston, TX).

Aroma notes included: smooth dark chocolate, faint fruit, nut and seed; and very faint spice. 

This striking bar was designed with a variable grid-pattern that held rows of seeds (chia, hemp, flax) as well as ruby-toned goji berries, and small pieces of coconut.

Flavor notes included: smooth dark chocolate, slightly crunchy, tiny fields of seeds and fruit. A very subtle touch of vanilla warmed up the 85% dark chocolate and complemented the other elements.

Ingredients: "85% Tumaco Dark Chocolate (cocoa mass, sugar, cocoa butter, soy lecithin, and vanilla extract), Chai (sic) Seeds, Hemp Seeds, Flax Seeds, Goji Berries, Coconut"

Allergen-related information: "Vegan & Gluten Free"

*Answer: cacao beans used to make the chocolate (seeds); vanilla likely used to make the extract (seeds); chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds, and coconut (single seed drupe). 

  

Theo Chocolate - Organic Salted Cashew 85% Dark Chocolate (bar) - Sept. 10, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Theo Chocolate
Organic Salted Cashew 85% Dark Chocolate (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 3 oz. (85 g.) in total bar
Calories: 170 calories in 1/3 bar
Cost: $2.79 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Piazza's, Palo Alto, CA

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

Today's Organic Salted Cashew 85% Dark Chocolate (bar) was distributed by Theo Chocolate (Seattle, WA).

Aroma notes for this ultra-dark bar included: dark chocolate with very faint fruit, nut and even fainter spice (green floral, vanilla).

Texture: relatively thick (cocoa buttery) texture with a relatively rapid, smooth melt, with soft bits of nut.

Flavor notes included: smooth ultra-dark chocolate (roasted, deep, smooth fudge brownie); sparkles of sea salt; faint, mellow nut; and well-managed bitterness.

I enjoyed the salt in this bar, and the well-balanced, 85% dark chocolate--that wasn't too sweet (thank you!). 

I also appreciated the maker's short list of organic, fair trade (fair for life) ingredients (with no emulsifiers or "natural flavors"). Theo Chocolate was one of the earliest to seek out and offer organic and fair trade chocolates that I can recall in the wave of craft, bean-to-bar chocolate makers that began over two decades ago.

Ingredients: Dark Chocolate* (Cocoa Beans *+, Cane Sugar*+, Cocoa Butter*+, Ground Vanilla Bean*), Cashews*, Sea Salt. (* Organic, + Fair Trade)

Allergen-related information: Contains Tree Nuts (Cashews). "Made on equipment that also processes milk, peanuts, and other tree nuts." 

Alter Eco - 85% Cacao Almond Blackout Organic Dark Chocolate (bar) - Sept. 6, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Alter Eco
85% Cacao Almond Blackout Organic Dark Chocolate (bar)
Good ++ 
Weight: 1.325 oz. (37.5 g.) / 2.65 oz. (75 g.) in total bar
Calories: 190 calories in 4 sections
Cost: $0.99 for 1 bar (thank you Bill)
Purchased from: Grocery Outlet Bargain Market, Palo Alto, CA

Welcome to Day #3 of Chocolate and Seeds* Theme Week. This week includes chocolates with seeds--as well as seeds that we call beans or nuts.

This bar contained cacao (seeds we call beans), almonds (seeds we call nuts) and vanilla beans (seeds we call beans). 

Today's 85% Cacao Organic Almond Blackout Organic Dark Chocolate (bar) was made in Switzerland and distributed by Alter Eco Foods (San Francisco, CA). 

The company founders have long been involved in supporting fair trade ingredients and organic and regenerative agriculture. (They were also early adopters of compostable packaging for their chocolates and quinoa many years ago.)

Aroma notes included: ultra-dark chocolate (relatively intense, roasted cocoa and nuts).

This bar had a relatively thick, hearty, cocoa-buttery dark chocolate texture with crunchy pieces of almonds and tiny, slightly crunchy, sea salt crystals.

Flavor notes included: deep, dark chocolate with a well-behaved bitterness that was also balanced with cocoa butter, almonds and salt. (Salt can also help cut bitterness.)

This ultra-dark 85% chocolate wasn't entirely "blacked out". It had just the right amount of raw cane sugar (not much) and crystalline sea salt (a judicious, sprinkle that had some flavor and detectable texture). I appreciated the smooth dark flavor and short list of organic and fair trade ingredients. 

When I went back to the store to buy more of these, there was nothing left but an empty box on the shelf--evidence of other ultra-dark chocolate fans in my neighborhood.

Ingredients: "*Organic cacao beans, *organic cocoa butter, *organic raw cane sugar, *organic almonds, sea salt (fleur de sel), *organic vanilla beans. (*Fair for Life Fair Trade certified. Contains 90% Fair Trade ingredients. Cacao: 85% minimum."

Allergen-related information: "Contains almonds. May contain milk, hazelnuts, coconut, and soy. Individuals who are allergic to these should not consume this product."

*Seeds come from mature flowering plants. Beans are a type of seeds--from the legume family. Cacao, coffee and vanilla are not members of the legume family; but we've come to call them "beans" over time. Confusing? Yes. Will this ever be corrected in our every day speech? Not likely. But, worth a mention, nonetheless.

Creo Chocolate - Purely Dark 85% Dark Chocolate, Ecuador (bar) - June 30, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Creo Chocolate
Purely Dark 85% Dark Chocolate, Ecuador (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: .88 oz. (25 g.) / 1.75 oz. (50 g.) in total bar
Calories: 125 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $10.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Creo Chocolate, online order

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

Today's Purely Dark 85% Dark Chocolate from Creo Chocolate (Portland, OR)

Aroma notes for this attractively packaged bar included: dark chocolate (cocoa, dates, very faint tart-sweet green (oxalis)); faint nut butter, seed/nut; and very faint peanut butter and honey sandwich and sweet green (coconut).

Flavor notes included: dark, bittersweet chocolate (rich cocoa), green herb(s), sweet aromatic wood, nut; diffuse fruit (berry, date, and very faint (almost undetectable) floral banana), coconut-leaning fruits (ice apple, coconut mango, soursop); and brown sugar.

The texture was relatively smoother and creaming especially as I was expecting a bit of astringency from the slightly tangy-bitter flavors from the aroma (and because it was 85% cacao).

I really enjoyed the complexity of aromas and flavors in this bar. It had a little something for everyone. Dark chocolate with plenty of rich cocoa flavor. Balanced bitter and sweet; sweet and faintly sour fruit; and nut and green elements. There was even a trace of green floral. 

It must have been enjoyable--and challenging--for the maker(s) to choose roast and conch profiles that would preserve all the subtle/delicate flavors, and develop/manage other flavors in this fine cacao. 

Ingredients: cacao beans, organic cane sugar, cocoa butter

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

Anarchy Chocolate - 85% Dark Chocolate (bar) - April 8, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Anarchy Chocolate
85% Dark Chocolate (bar)
Good + - Good ++ 
Weight: 1.41 oz. (40 g.) / 2.82 oz. (80 g.) in total bar
Calories: 219 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $5.55 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Anarchy Chocolate, online order 

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

Today's 85% Dark Chocolate (bar) was made by Anarchy Chocolate (at Anarchy (Cocoa) Farm in Trat, Thailand). 

The family-owned, small-batch chocolate maker operates on their own farm, and sells a variety of Thai cacao bean-based offerings (chocolate bars, cacao nibs, cacao husk tea).

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate (dark chocolate ganache, lemony green (oxalis)); and very faint floral spice and fruit (diffuse fig, tropical fruit).

Texture: dark chocolate with a slightly uneven melt (out-of-temper) and a slight graininess/astringency (throat tickle).*

Flavor notes included: dark chocolate; natural sweetness (honeyed rice, fruit); and very faint tart lemony herb (oxalis) and spice. 

This was a fun chocolate to try; and I enjoyed the relatively gentle flavor complexity. It was relatively low in bitterness for an 85% ultra-dark (high-percentage cacao) bar, and it wasn't too sweet--allowing the subtler flavors to shine through.

I'm a huge supporter of small businesses making bean-to-bar chocolate. For Anarchy Chocolate, and a handful of others, the difficulty level goes up as they're making chocolate from tree-to-bar in a cacao growing zone. They operate a farm; may be doing their own fermenting; and are making chocolate in warm and humid climates; and shipping to other countries without being able to completely control the end-to-end shipping process.*

Ingredients: Not listed.

Allergen-related information: None found.

*Note: The textural attributes mentioned were likely from a long transit time from Thailand to the U.S. (A few months elapsed between when the order was placed and when it was delivered.) I'm guessing that the package, containing three different bars, may have been held up in customs for some time, and that this time did not include storage at an ideal temperature range.

 

U. Chocolate Corp. - "Wild Experience" 85% Organic Tree-to-Bar Dark (bar) - Feb. 9, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

U. Chocolate Corp.
"Wild Experience" 85% Organic Tree-to-Bar Dark (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++

Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 15.8 oz. (450 g.) total variety pack of 5 flavors (10 bars)
Calories: 165 calories in 2/3 bar

Cost: $29.99 for 1 variety pack of 10 bars (2 each of 5 flavors)
Purchased from: U Chocolate, online order

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

Today's "Wild Experience" 85% Organic, Premium Tree-to-Bar, Dark Chocolate (bar) from U. Chocolate Corp. (Orlando, FL) was made in Peru. It was one of five different bars (all featured this week) in a larger chocolate variety pack.

The company crafted these attractively packaged bars at their "...organic farm in the Amazonia with a selection of our fine aroma cocoa varieties..." The chocolate was "Grown, Harvested and Crafted with 100% plant-based ingredients by El Mejor Cacao del Mundo S.A.C. in our all-in-one facilities at Hacienda Umbelina, in the Peruvian Amazonia.")

Aroma notes included: dark chocolate (bold, bittersweet ultra-dark chocolate torte topped with a wafer cookie) with very faint green botanical (almost green fig or green banana, but not quite); and well-managed, very diffuse fruit (red berry, nectarine). 

Texture: well-tempered (broke with a snap) with a thick, creamy smooth texture.

Flavor notes included: well-managed ultra-dark chocolate with very faint botanical, faint diffuse fruit (nectarine, cacao fruit pulp), faint ultra-dark cookie; almost undetectable spice (ginger); faint, fleeting earth (loam) and yogurt. And, at the very end of the finish there was a tiny blip of muted fruit (strawberry-mango). 

This was an enjoyable and thoughtfully managed ride. For some, any 85% dark craft chocolate may be wildly adventurous. For dark chocolate lovers, I found this well-managed Peruvian cacao bar more complex and interesting than many 85% dark bars.

What I liked about this "Wild Experience" dark chocolate: 1.) well-balanced, ultra-dark (85%) cacao complexity, from start to finish; 2.) part of a variety pack with unique (and rare) Peruvian single region cacao flavors--five bars, that could be tasted and compared side by side); and 3.) organic, gluten-free, single origin chocolate made with just two, high-quality ingredients.

Ingredients: "Cacao and coconut blossom sugar."

Allergen-related information: "Made Without Major Food Allergen Ingredients" 

    

Seattle Chocolate - jcoco - 85% Single Varietal Contamana Cacao Peruvian dark (bar) - Feb. 3, 2024

Chocolate of the Day

Seattle Chocolate Company
jcoco - 85% Single Varietal Contamana Cacao Peruvian dark (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++
Weight: 1 oz. (28 g.) / 3 oz. (85 g.) in total package of 3 bars
Calories: 155 (estimate) calories in 1 small bar
Cost: $9.99 for 1 package of 3 smaller bars
Purchased from: Seattle Chocolate, online order 

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

Today's jcoco 85% Single Varietal Contamana Cacao Peruvian dark (bar) was from Seattle Chocolate Company, Inc. (Seattle, WA) and was one of three identical, individually-wrapped bars contained in an attractively blue-purple hued, larger package. 

The Contamana* variety cacao used to make this bar was from the central-southern area of Peru (Cuzco region) in Quillabamba, in a valley (not that far from Machu Picchu), known for "its unique fine aroma cacao trees."

Aroma notes for this chocolate included: dark chocolate (rich cocoa); faint (muffled) fruit (ripe blackberry); subtle, balanced and fleeting rich, loamy + peat/tannic earth; and very faint botanical.

Texture: This well-tempered bar broke with a snap. The texture was pleasing and creamy smooth with the exception of a few very tiny crunchy (nib) particles in one bite. There was also a very faint, fleeting and very well-balanced tannic astringency.

Flavor notes included: flavorful dark chocolate (dark cocoa) with subtle, complex fruit (dark/red berry, citrus (faint lime), tropical fruit: cacao pulp); very faint botanicals (light spice); and balanced earth/light tannins. The finish was light, lingering and clean, especially for an 85%er.

What I liked about this bar: 1.) opportunity to try a single region, single varietal (Contamana) Peru chocolate; 2.) relatively smooth and approachable 85% ultra-dark chocolate with complex, interesting and balanced aroma and flavor notes; 3.) the maker's choice of a low roast**; and 4.) attractive packaging + three smaller, individually-wrapped bars that made it easy to share with/gift to others.

Ingredients: cracked cacao beans, cane sugar, cocoa butter, sunflower lecithin).

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

*Contamana is a rare variety of cacao; and one of many varieties of cacao from South America (the birthplace of cacao). Just as there are many varieties of grapes used to make wine, there are many varieties of cacao that can be used to make chocolate.

**Maker's notes: "fermentation: 6 days; drying 5 days; roast: low"

 

Hogarth - Ecuador Hacienda Victoria Single Estate 85% Cacao (bar) - Dec. 21, 2023

Chocolate of the Day

Hogarth Chocolate Makers
Ecuador Hacienda Victoria Single Estate 85% Cacao (bar)
Good ++ - Good +++ 
Weight: 1.23 oz. (35 g.)/ 2.47 oz. (70 g.) in total bar 
Calories: 205.8 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $11.50 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order

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

Today's Ecuador Single Estate 85% (bar) was made by Hogarth Chocolate Makers (Nelson, New Zealand). This was one of two Hogarth Ecuador bars enjoyed this week. (See tomorrow's entry for the Hogarth 100% bar).

The Arriba Nacional (variety of cacao) beans used to make this chocolate were from Hacienda Victoria, a single estate farm established in 2011 in (Cerecita, Guayas) Ecuador, not far from the coast (Pacific Ocean).*

Aroma notes for this "intense dark chocolate" made with Arriba (Nacional) cacao included: slightly bitter dark chocolate (think dark porter/stout if you're a beer drinker); very faint green; molasses; coffee; wood (very faint cedar); barely there green/dried banana; faint, fleeting balanced earth (peat); and very faint sourdough bread...And that was just the aroma.

This well-tempered bar broke with a hard snap in a cool room. It was relatively smooth and creamy, and I was waiting for some astringency, but it never really happened. 

This 85%er had all the flavor, but none of the flinch (at least for ultra-dark fans like me).

Flavor notes included: deep rich, well integrated, ultra-dark chocolate flavor(s), with much less sour and bitter aspects than expected. There was a bit of fruit (citrus, tropical, cacao fruit pulp) sweet-tartness, but it was balanced and subtle. For those who love bold, balanced taste, this was a great ultra-dark bar.

Maker's comments: "...you can expect a smooth but strong cocoa with a hint of citrus."

Ingredients: "Cocoa Solids 85% (Cocoa Beans, Cocoa Butter*^), Sugar* 15% (* = Organic; ^ = Fair Trade)

Allergen-related information: "May Contain Traces of Milk and Nuts."

*Cacao trees are native to South America and grow up to 20 degrees North and 20 degrees South of the Equator in South (and Central) America. 

The name "Ecuador" means Equator in Spanish. The Equator runs east-west through Northern Ecuador. The country's privileged geographical position has made its long history as a cacao-growing country possible. 

No surprise that chocolate makers seek out prized heritage/ancient varieties of cacao found in Ecuador (and neighboring countries adjacent to/part of the Amazon Basin). Arriba Nacional (and other criollo ("native") cacao varieties) are found in Ecuador. And Hacienda Victoria owners are dedicated to growing and preserving Arriba Nacional cacao.

Stone Grindz Chocolate - Ancient Ecuador 85% (bar) - Dec 15, 2023

Chocolate of the Day

Stone Grindz Chocolate
Ancient Ecuador 85% (bar)

Good ++

Weight: 1 oz. (28.3 g.) / 2 oz. (57 g.) in total bar
Calories: 155 calories (estimate) in 1/2 bar
Cost: $9.00 for 1 bar

Purchased from: Stone Grindz, online order

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

Today's Ancient Ecuador 85% (bar) was made from bean to bar by Stone Grindz Chocolate (Scottsdale, AZ).

This award-winning chocolate was crafted using cacao from Hacienda Victoria (Cerecita, Ecuador). The cacao beans are "ancient heirloom varietal dating back thousands of years, making this bean very rare."

Aroma notes for this ultra-dark chocolate included: deep, dark chocolate and very subtle, smooth earth (very faint loam) and mineral (very faint chalk).

This well-tempered bar broke with a hard snap in a cool room. The texture was uniform and smooth with a very faint astringency. Stone Grindz chocolate makers selected a "light roast and a heavy conche to give it clarity of flavor unmatched at this percentage." (More gentle roasting can preserve more volatile flavor elements present in complex, heritage cacaos; and longer conche time can create a pleasant creamy texture.)

Flavor notes included: dark fudge brownie; earth (light loam); very faint (barely there) dried fruit (black fig, pomegranate) and cinnamon toast; and roasted nut/seed/malt. Not too sweet, tart or bitter, this 85% ultra-dark bar will interest dark chocolate enthusiasts. 

Eat slowly to enjoy some of the more fleeting flavor notes and to enjoy the unexpected creaminess (dark chocolate buttermilk ice cream) toward the finish, that became more obvious after the first (i.e. subsequent) bite.

Maker's Tasting Notes: "Chocolate Ice Cream, Roasted Peanut"

Ingredients: (Ecuadorian) Cacao*, Cacao Butter*, Cane Sugar* (* = Organically Farmed)

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

Fjak - Thailand Dark Chocolate 85% Cocoa (bar) - Nov. 13, 2023

Chocolate of the Day

Fjak Chocolate
Thailand Dark Chocolate 85% Cocoa (bar)
Good +++
Weight: 1.06 oz. (30 g.) / 2.11 oz. (60 g.) in total bar
Calories: 164 calories in 1/2 bar
Cost: $11.00 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Bar and Cocoa, online order

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

Today's Thailand Dark Chocolate 85% Cocoa (bar) was made by Fjak Chocolate AS (Hardangerfjord, Norway).

The cacao beans used to make this chocolate were from the province of Chanthaburi, in eastern Thailand, in a region known for gems, tropical fruits, and pepper.

Aroma and flavor notes for this aromatic and unique dark chocolate included: bold, dark chocolate; sharp, peppery fruit (blueberry, fig, pineapple); sweet red bell pepper; distilled spirits; and very faint tart-sweet tropical fruit (mango, passion fruit, mangosteen) vinegar.

Texture: This well-tempered bar broke with a hard snap (at room temperature (68 degrees F. / 20 degrees C.); and the chocolate had a relatively rapid, yet light buttery, melt and mouthfeel. I braced myself for some fruit astringency (puckery/dry like in some red wines), but the level was relatively low (and/or well-managed).

This, three ingredient, ultra-dark 85% single origin (single region) bar was a transporting, exotic ride. I felt grateful to be able to taste all these vibrant, complex cacao flavors that could have been lost in a more processed, over-roasted blend or a very sweet chocolate. Thank you to the makers at Fjak for a well-executed Thai chocolate, that I enjoyed more with every bite. It's rare when I'm tempted to eat an entire 85% bar; but, this was one of those times.

Fjak tasting notes: "Tropical vibes in a bar: with tasting notes of pineapple, passionfruit and rum, this might be the fruitiest 85% dark chocolate you have ever had."

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

Allergen-related information: "Processed in a facility that handles nuts, dairy and gluten." Vegan.

Nibble Chocolate - 85% Cocoa Organic Extra Dark Chocolate Madagascar Single Origin Trinitario (bar) - July 23, 2023

Chocolate of the Day

Nibble Chocolate
85% Cocoa Organic Extra Dark Chocolate Madagascar Single Origin Trinitario (bar)
Good ++
Weight: 1.15 oz. (32.5 g.) / 2.3 oz. (65 g.) in total bar
Calories: 200 calories in 1/2 bar (4 servings)
Cost: $5.39 for 1 bar
Purchased from: Country Sun Natural Foods, Palo Alto, CA

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

Today's 85% Cocoa Organic Extra Dark Chocolate Madagascar Single Origin Trinitario (bar) was from Nibble Chocolate, LLC (San Diego, CA).

Nibble offers single origin and blended origin bars, and bars with flavor inclusions. Their square bars are scored into an 8x8 grid of 64 much smaller squares. The idea is to invite people to savor chocolate more slowly...to "nibble rather than gobble."

Aroma notes for this 85% Madagascar ultra-dark chocolate (crafted from Trinitario* variety cacao grown in Madagascar) included: bold dark chocolate; faint sweet tart green-lemon herb; very faint nut, spice, and freshly baked bread; and, last but not least, diffuse, tart/sour/acidic dried fruit notes. Madagascar cacao is known for having fruit notes (often citrus and tart berry).

The texture was smooth, almost creamy.

Given the relatively bold, acidic aroma, I was pleasantly surprised that the taste was more appealing/friendly than I imagined it might be.

Flavor notes included: rich, bold dark chocolate with moderate-to-high fruit acidity. The complex, sweet-tart to mildly sour fruit (dried stone fruit (plum), tart-sweet/sour citrus (pink grapefruit with berries) notes were frisky yet well-balanced. And the deep chocolate-y (extra dark fudge brownie, tart) taste was very appealing in the best possible way--very flavorful and not that sweet. 

Nibble Chocolate description: "Notes: plum, citrus, raspberry, and spices. Bold with underlying earthiness."

All these flavors from just two ingredients...

Ingredients: Organic cocoa beans, organic whole unrefined cane sugar.

Allergen-related information: Processed in shared equipment with products containing nuts.

*The Trinitario cacao is known for fruit notes--as is cacao from Madagascar in general. The theory is that Trinitario cacao is a product/cultivar of bolder Forastero cacao and milder and subtly fruity "heritage" cacao varieties like Criollo, and Nacional. Trinitario likely originated in the Caribbean (Trinidad and Tobago).

 

Kitchen & Love - 85% Cocoa Extra Dark Chocolate Covered Almond Stuffed Dates - June 17, 2023

Chocolate of the Day

Kitchen and Love
85% Cocoa Extra Dark Chocolate Covered Almond Stuffed Dates
Good + - Good ++
Weight: .89 oz. (26 g.) / 3.5 oz. (100 g.) in total package
Calories: 112 calories in 2 piece serving
Cost: $4.49 for 1 package of 8 pieces
Purchased from: Crossroads Specialty Market, Palo Alto, CA

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

Today's 85% Cocoa Extra Dark Chocolate Covered Almond Stuffed Dates were from Kitchen and Love Foods ("Cucina et Amore"), and were imported into the U.S. by Cucina and Amore Inc (Novato, CA). They company began with Italian specialty foods and has expanded over time.

Aroma notes for these individually-wrapped treats included: dark chocolate, dried fruit (date) and nut (roasted almond).

The texture was a layered blend of thin dark chocolate shell, moist date, and crunchy almond at the center.

Flavor notes included: bold dark chocolate, date and roasted almond. I enjoyed this flavorful, complementary trio of flavors and textures. The 85% dark chocolate and the almond helped balance the sweet date fruit.

Ingredients: "Dates, Dark Chocolate [Cocoa Mass, Sugar, Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Powder, Soy Lecithin (Emulsifier), Whole Milk Powder, Natural Vanilla], Almonds, Salt."

Allergen-related information: "Contains: Tree Nuts, Milk and Soy."