Review: Theo Organic 74% Dark Madagascar

Lindy's Rating: 7.5 (previously ***)

Richard's Rating: 7.5 (previously ***)

chocolate maker Theo bar Madagascar 74% region Madagascar plantation (blend) cacao trees (unknown) year (unknown) size 84g ~ 3.0oz cocoa solids 74% added fat cocoa butter sweetener sugar emulsifier (none) flavoring vanilla other ingredients (none) list price $5.00

color medium brown PANTONE 19-1015 Bracken texture smooth with scoring, uneven sheen aroma citrus, earth, roast (cocoa), spice (clove) snap hard taste roast, fruit (citrus, cherry), sweet, spice (clove) melt smooth length medium finish slightly acidic

Organic 74% Dark Madagascar is one of Theo's three current single origin bars. The cacao beans used in this chocolate came from Madagascar. The chocolate was made from 74% cocoa solids, and includes sugar, cocoa butter, and vanilla beans. All ingredients were certified organic by the USDA. The 3 ounce bar was scored into 6 large pieces, wrapped in silver foil, and packaged in an outer paper wrapper as shown above. The best before date was August 2012.

The color of Madagascar was a medium brown Bracken (PANTONE 19-1015). The surface was dull and had variations in sheen. The bar had a hard snap.

The chocolate had aromas of citrus, earth, roast in the form of cocoa, and spice that we identified as clove.

The initial taste of Madagascar was of roast that was almost burnt, but then the fruit flavors came out, including both citrus and cherry. Obvious sweetness was present, and then we could taste the clove spice we smelled in the aroma.

The melt was smooth. The chocolate flavor lasted 20 to 25 seconds after the chocolate was gone, giving it a medium length. The finish was slightly acidic.

You can purchase Theo Madagascar 74% online for $5.00 directly from Theo for delivery in the U.S. Theo also delivers internationally, but requires email (info@theochocolate.com) or a phone call (206.632.5100) to do so.