チョコレートパール カカオ豆

I was expecting a decent nib substitute but these are on another level — the Criollo beans give it this fruity, almost wine-like depth I haven't tasted in other cocoa products. A little goes a long way, so the bag is lasting me way longer than I figured.

These beans from the Betulia hacienda have such a deep, almost fruity complexity that I keep going back for a handful straight from the bag. Knowing they're sustainably grown and pure Criollo makes the indulgence feel even better.

The aroma when I opened the bag was rich and almost wine-like, a nice change from my usual nibs. The Criollo beans are notably less bitter and have a smoother finish, though the price keeps me from making this an everyday snack.