Mexican Ceremonial Cacao - Santana 2024

Characteristics Origin: MexicoRegion: SantanaType: TrinatarioCertification: Direct TradeCrop Year: 2024Fermentation: None, washed raw cocoa Flavor Notes: As I look back at the first Mexican chocolate from Oaxaca I ever had, I realize it was probably a washed cocoa not unlike this one.  Why is that significant?  The stunningly alive flavor is what inspired me to start Chocolate Alchemy over 20 years ago. Why is it washed and unfermented?  The grower says it best. "Due to the rainy weather and cold climate, cocoa fermentation is a near impossible task.  However, farmers “wash” cacao according to the Mexican tradition. And as washed cacao the bean shines in drinking chocolate with its strong and herbal flavor notes. " There are a few things to unpack here.  First and foremost, this cocoa is not fermented and is particularly unsuited for classic eating chocolate.  I'm not going to bother with my classic spider chart as that is meant for eating chocolate.   This is an absolutely firs