¿How to Taste República del Cacao?

1. Observe its appearance

Observe its color and remember that color is not equal to dark chocolate flavor. Observe its glow, bloom and an ashy coating on the chocolate surface due to changes in the crystal structures of fat still left even after clearing, which may be easily removed by wiping it.

2. Perceive its aroma

Break a small piece of chocolate with one hand and rub the sample with your fingertip. With your other hand, cup the sample over your mouth and nose and smell the surrounding air space. Take a few short breaths to allow sufficient residence time of the volatiles in the nasal cavity where the sensory receptors are located. To clear residuals or fatigue, take in neutral air… and do not pinch the nose.

3. Experience its taste

Break a small piece of chocolate with your front teeth. Listen to the texture. Allow the sample to rest on your tongue and melt as flavors emerge separately. Flavors will develop while chocolate softens in the mouth. Note their evolution: flavors upon impact and flavors that increase or diminish. At the end, extended taste in the mouth after swallowing will allow realizing a long or short chocolate ending.

4. Listen to its breaking sound

Wait for a clear dry snap sound. It will reveal the chocolate has been properly processed.

5. Feel its texture

Let your mouth cool or warm as chocolate melts. Rub the melted sample against your palate and feel its smoothness. Does the sample have a texture/body? Does it leave an oily feeling?