Chocolate is quite a highly sought-after commodity, isn’t it? Reports indicate that global chocolate consumption topped 7.5 million tons this year, and that volume is expected to continue on an upward trend.

In ancient times, the Mayans and Aztecs held chocolate in high regard, considering it the drink of the gods. Today, it’s accessible to everyone, and it certainly takes people into a heightened state of elation if for only a few moments. 

Exploring the World of Chocolate

Chocolate is available in countless forms these days. It has branched out into an endless array of recipes, each of which generates its own flavor and texture. Some chocolates are inexpensive everyday treats whereas others fall on the higher end of the spectrum.

Those luxurious, high-quality chocolates are in a class all their own. Tasting them and truly appreciating them has become an art form. Those interested in developing a more discerning palate can view a helpful chocolate tasting guide to learn more. 

Studies show that chocolate has a vast range of flavor compounds. Those vary based on the type of chocolate in question, other ingredients added to the mix, and the processing technique used among other factors.

Even environmental factors can affect the flavor and texture of the finished product. Those include the type of soil the chocolate was grown in and the weather conditions present during its cultivation. Flavor profiles even vary based on the different genetic profiles of cacao trees. 

Understanding the Art of Chocolate Tasting

Experts are quick to point out that tasting chocolate in the true sense of the word is a process that requires certain steps. First of all, tasters are advised to start with a clean palate. Having other flavors lingering on the tongue will interfere with the experience.

Water can help to clear away existing food particles and flavors to allow people to experience the full essence of the chocolate they’re tasting. Crackers and plain white bread can have the same effect. 

In addition to cleansing the palate before tasting chocolate, cleansing the mind and soul is also recommended. Even seemingly minor distractions, like music, television, and children, can detract from the tasting experience.

It’s reportedly best to find a quiet place with minimal distractions before savoring the sweet bliss of chocolate. At the same time, chocolate tends to provide the most amazing flavors and tasting adventures at room temperature rather than when it’s cold or hot. 

When tasting fine chocolate, it’s important to choose the right size bite to create the most enjoyable sensations. A bite should be neither too large nor too small. Keep in mind, chocolate’s flavors blossom and change as it melts and coats the tongue.

Tasting should take place slowly, allowing the morsel to enter various phases of the melting process before swallowing. Consuming the chocolate too hastily will detract from the full development of its flavor profile on the palate. 

Becoming a Chocolate Connoisseur

Many people barely taste chocolates while gobbling them down as though they might magically disappear. According to true chocolate aficionados, those people could be missing out on a marvelous array of finer details.

Chocolate consists of numerous compounds that contribute to incredibly complex flavor profiles. Those can only be best experienced under the right conditions. Feel free to learn more about the tasting process to truly begin to appreciate chocolate in its entirety.