ranked in the top 100 chocolates in the world.
origin & craftsmanshipthis artisan bar is crafted from single-origin cacao beans grown on the salazar familys estate in esmeraldas, a region in northern ecuador. the salazars oversee every stagefrom varietal selection to fermentation and dryingto ensure exceptional bean quality. goodnow farms takes it further: beans are roasted in small batches, stone-ground in melanguers, conched for five days, and refined with cocoa butter pressed from the same estate beans. the result? a smooth, creamy bar with deeply expressive flavor.
flavor profilethis well-balanced dark chocolate is known for its very low acidity and vibrant berry jam notesthink deep raspberry or red grapethat carry into a long, satisfying finish with a mellow astringency. reviewers also detect undertones of cabernet grapes, lending a fruity, wine-like nuance. the texture is velvety and refined, showcasing the impact of freshly pressed cocoa butter.
accolades & awardsthis bar has earned repeated recognition, including silver medals from the academy of chocolate (20212023), silver from the international chocolate awards (2020), and a prestigious gold sofi award in 2020 for specialty dark chocolate.
tasting & pairing guide
enjoy the esmeraldas 70% bar slowly, allowing the rich berry jam flavors to bloom gently across your palate. pair it with a fruity red wine like pinot noir to mirror the jammy grape notes, or sip it alongside hibiscus or other floral teas to highlight its fruit-forward character. a light, crisp cider complements its brightness, while espresso emphasizes its roasted depth. for food pairings, fresh berries or fruit tarts intensify its core flavors, and toasted almond biscotti provides a nutty counterpoint to its silky texture.
summary
the esmeraldas 70% dark chocolate is a polished expression of ecuadorian cacao, crafted with meticulous care and celebrated worldwide. its jammy fruit character, smooth texture, and award-winning pedigree make it a standout for chocolate lovers who value both terroir and craftsmanship.
