cacao farming — The Chocolate Journalist

What Is Nacional Cacao, Why It’s in Danger and How We Can Save It from Extinction

When cocoa buyers, chocolate makers and consumers read Ecuador as a place of cacao origin, they have high expectations in terms of quality and flavor. However, this millennial reputation is now in danger: the most flavorful cacao variety in Ecuador called Nacional (or Arriba, or Arriba Nacional) is rapidly disappearing.

CACAO FARMINGSharon TerenziNovember 20, 2022nacional cacao, cacao de arriba, ecuador, cacao farming, CCN51 Comments

Questioning Terroir In Chocolate: When Feelings (And Marketing) Get In The Way Of Accuracy

The land where cocoa grows is definitely responsible for the amazing flavors delivered in our delicious chocolate. But here is one crucial detail that has been always overlooked: what happens at origin is much more than just terroir.

CACAO FARMINGSharon TerenziSeptember 20, 2020cacao, fine cocoa, craft chocolate, cacao farming, terroir in chocolate Comment