Yes, we consider fermentation to be one of the single most important steps in the chocolate-making process, in terms of flavor profile.
Our production of chocolate starts with planting the cacao tree, includes the key post-harvest step of fermentation, the traditional steps of chocolate making, and finishes with packaging your bar in Ecuador. Read on to discover all 14 steps!
Bigtime. According to the USDA, the average ORAC value of pure dark chocolate is 49,944, which is 10x greater than the ORAC value of raw blueberries (4,669) and 13x greater than red wine (3,607) - both of which are also considered antioxidant powerhouses. Read on for full details.
Our current editions cannot qualify as “raw” because they were roasted, albeit at the relatively low temperature range of 80-100° C (176-212° F). Compare this to conventional roasting temperatures, which reach a whopping 160° C (320° F). Read on for full details.
Cacao is arguably the healthiest thing you can put into your body. It allows you to operate at a high level and helps you feel good throughout the day. Read on for six of the most compelling reasons for enjoying cacao as part of a healthy diet.
USDA and EU Organic, Fair Trade TSA, Heirloom Cacao Preservation. We’re proud to report that our chocolate is vegan, gluten free, non-GMO as well.
Aged chocolate is a new phenomenon that To'ak has been pioneering since 2013. The process is grounded in the science of flavor extraction, and draws heavily from long-standing practices in both the wine and whisky traditions.
Nacional, which is native to Ecuador, is generally regarded as the most coveted cacao variety in the world. Its fame in the global market dates back several centuries, although its ancient origins run much deeper.
Yes. Our Origin Bars are typically limited to only 150 bars per edition. Each bar is packaged in a handcrafted hardwood box that has the individual bar number engraved on the bottom. Our Signature Bars are somewhat more numerous, but are typically limited to 1,000 per edition.
Sometimes we make products available for pre-order before they are launched. Other products can only be made to order.