Hey there, chocolate lovers! Do you ever find yourself daydreaming about the perfect chocolate experience? Do you crave a taste explosion that makes your taste buds do a happy dance? If so, you're in for a treat! We’re diving into the delightful world of chocolate tasting, where you'll learn how to appreciate the complex flavours of chocolate. Get ready to savour the symphony of flavours hidden in every bite of Free'ist’ no added sugar chocolate bars.

The Basics of Chocolate Tasting 

History and Origins

Chocolate has a rich history dating back over 3,000 years to the ancient civilisations of Mesoamerica. The Mayans and Aztecs revered chocolate, using it in rituals and as a luxurious beverage. Fast forward to today, chocolate has evolved into a beloved treat worldwide, and its tasting has become a refined art.

What Makes Chocolate Tasting Unique?

Unlike wine or cheese tasting, chocolate tasting involves a unique interplay of the senses. Each piece of chocolate carries a story from its origin, the quality of the cocoa beans, the meticulous production process, and the craftsmanship of the chocolatier. The complexity of chocolate lies in its layered flavours and textures, offering an indulgent and immersive experience. We use the finest Fino De Aroma beans which tell a story of their own!

Preparing for a Chocolate Tasting Experience

Setting the Scene

Creating the perfect environment for chocolate tasting enhances the experience. Find a quiet, well-lit space free from strong odours. Use a clean palate by drinking water and avoiding strong-flavoured foods beforehand. Our master chocolatiers tell us the room temperature should be around 20-22°C to allow the chocolate to melt gently in your mouth, releasing its full range of flavours… if you have the time for that 😉

Selecting Your Chocolate

Choosing high-quality chocolate is crucial. Opt for chocolate bars with a high cocoa content and minimal ingredients (that’s where we come in). Free'ist’ no added sugar chocolate bars are perfect for this, offering a variety of flavours like dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and unique combinations such as dark chocolate with sea salt. These options allow you to explore different taste profiles while enjoying a health-conscious treat.

The Five Steps of Chocolate Tasting

Appearance

Examine the chocolate’s appearance. High-quality chocolate has a glossy sheen and an even colour. The surface should be smooth, without any white streaks or blemishes, which can indicate improper tempering or storage.

Aroma

Break a piece of chocolate and smell its aroma. A rich, complex scent indicates well-fermented and roasted cocoa beans. You may notice notes of fruit, nuts, spices, or even floral hints. Free'ist dark chocolate, for example, often reveals a deep, earthy aroma with subtle hints of berries.

Sound

Listen to the sound when you break the chocolate. A clear, sharp snap indicates good tempering, which is a sign of quality. This snap means the chocolate has been properly cooled and has a stable crystalline structure. If you follow us on social media, you’ll hear that perfect snap in many of our videos. 🤩

Texture

Place a small piece of chocolate in your mouth and let it melt. Pay attention to the texture. High-quality chocolate should be smooth and velvety, without any graininess. The melting process should be slow and even, allowing you to savour the mouthfeel.

Taste

Finally, focus on the taste. Allow the chocolate to melt on your tongue and note the initial flavours, the evolving middle notes, and the lingering finish. Free'ist chocolate offers a rich tapestry of flavours – from the intense cocoa of our dark chocolate to the creaminess of our oat m*lk chocolate. Notice the balance of natural sweetness, bitterness, acidity, and any additional flavour notes like sea salt or hazelnuts.

Pairing Chocolate with Other Flavours

Chocolate and Beverages

Pairing chocolate with beverages can enhance your tasting experience. Dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with red wine, as the tannins complement the bitterness of the cocoa. Milk chocolate pairs well with coffee, balancing its creaminess with the rich, roasted flavours. Try Free'ist dark chocolate with a glass of Merlot or our milk chocolate with a robust espresso!

Chocolate and Food

Complementary food pairings can also elevate your chocolate tasting. Fruits like strawberries and bananas, nuts like almonds and hazelnuts, and cheeses like brie and blue cheese all pair beautifully with chocolate. Experiment with Free'ist chocolate to find your favourite combinations. Dark chocolate with sea salt, for instance, pairs excellently with dried apricots and cashews, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty.

The Benefits of No Added Sugar Chocolate

Choosing no added sugar chocolate like Free'ist not only satisfies your choco-cravings but also offers a healthier alternative to regular bars. With no added sugar, palm oil or artificial flavourings, and made using ethically sourced cacao beans from Colombian farmers, we believe great tasting and better-for-you belong together.

Come back for more...

Appreciating chocolate through tasting is a rewarding and enriching experience. By following these steps, you can savour the complex flavours and textures of chocolate, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for this beloved treat.

Ready to start your chocolate tasting journey? Join us in the flavour revolution! Crafted with care for a healthier, tastier experience.