The earliest archeological record of humans consuming cacao was discovered in present-day Ecuador and dates back more than 5,000 years.
This award category recognizes superior chocolate-based drinks in any of their many forms. This includes water-based, milk-based, and flavored, chocolate-based drinks in forms that are unique and modern, or have been enjoyed by humans for thousands of years.
2022 Winners: Foundry Chocolate- Kilombero Valley, Tanzania, Midunu Chocolates- Classic Milk Drinking Chocolate, ander cacao- Single Origin Vietnam 100%, Dick Taylor Chocolate- Belize Drinking Chocolate, Calm Cocoa by Meredith Whitely- Pure 100% Dark Chocolate
Our most heavily weighted metric. Each drink is evaluated on the depth, complexity, length, and balance of flavor.
Each drink is evaluated on its aroma notes, if the drink exudes strong, enticing, and clear chocolate notes which compel and complement tasting.
Each drink is evaluated on the texture, mouthfeel, flavor delivery, and melting properties.
Each drink is evaluated on both its packaged and unpackaged appearance to determine if the bar compels tasting.
