Mexico Soconusco El Vado Lote V 6.0 Cacao Cocoa Beans 1kg

Region and Country

Mexico, Chiapas State, Municipality of Tuzantán. El Vado is a small area nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains, with a population of 150 inhabitants

Story

The history of cacao in the Southeast of Mexico dates to pre-colonial times. Cacao was not only an integral part of the culinary and religious traditions of the region, but it was also used as currency. Chiapas was the center of cacao commerce in Mesoamerica when the Spaniards reached the area in 1522. The first cacao brought to Europe to the Spanish court came from Chiapas.

Most of the cacao currently grown in Mexico, is produced by the states of Tabasco (18.000 MT) and Chiapas (4.500 MT). Of the total, less than 100 tonnes are exported each year. El Vado cacao grows on the foothills of the Sierra Madre along bumpy winding roads, in the shadow of the imposing mountains above. This cacao grows at an altitude of 350 meters above sea level. The plots along the road are owned by the inhabitants of El Vado along an area of about 5 kilometers.

Our Mexico El Vado collection is comprised by cacao beans grown and harvested by 14 different farmers.

Harvest

October – February (main harvest) March – August (mid-crop)

Genetics

Genetic studies in the area show that the cacao populations in Soconusco are a mix of Criollo and Trinitario hybrids.

Post Harvesting Process

The cocoa is collected fresh and brought to Finca La Rioja for fermenting and drying. This lot was fermented for 6 days and dried on the original drying patios built in the early 1900’s for 7 days.

Flavour

Round body, chocolate base with herbal notes, ripe plums, sun dried bananas and a soft nuttiness.