Farm to Bar 70% — Orange Peel Dark Chocolate

Description

Citrus and Cacao, Grown Under the Equator

Ecuadorian Essence pairs orange peel with Nacional cacao from Manabí, Ecuador, because the citrus highlights the fruity notes that make this cacao one of the most valued in the world.
Nacional cacao, the “Arriba” variety, grows in Manabí on the equator with close to twelve hours of daylight all year. Ecuador is the world’s largest producer of fine flavor cacao, a category that represents only about 5% of global production according to the International Cocoa Organization.
The Orange Peel bar is part of the Farm to Bar collection: chocolate made in Ecuador, close to the farms, and brought to the Washington DC area by Ecuadorian Essence, a family from Ecuador. It is not sold in national chains.

Tasting Notes

The Ecuadorian Essence Orange Peel bar opens with fresh orange and honey, then reveals the fruity and floral notes of 70% Nacional cacao, finishing long and clean.
The peel adds a light bitterness that balances the honey. At 70%, it is intense enough for dark chocolate lovers and balanced enough for those discovering higher-cacao bars.

Ingredients

70% cacao from Manabí, Ecuador; cane sugar; honey; orange peel. Made without nuts; may contain traces of soy. Not vegan, because the Farm to Bar line is sweetened with cane sugar and honey. Always check the label for the complete ingredient list and allergen statement.

Why Nacional Cacao Tastes Different

Ecuadorian Essence uses Nacional cacao because this native Ecuadorian variety is recognized internationally as fine flavor cacao, giving the bar aroma and complexity without artificial flavorings.
Nacional pods turn a deep yellow when ripe, which is why Ecuadorians call its beans “pepa de oro,” the golden seed. The terroir of Manabí shapes a profile of floral aroma, fruity sweetness and a slight final bitterness.

A Dark Chocolate for First-Time Explorers

Ecuadorian Essence recommends the Orange Peel bar as the starting point for people new to 70% cacao, because citrus and honey soften the intensity of dark chocolate.
From here, the palate can move on to Bee Pollen, Spearmint and Toasted Coffee, the other bars of the Farm to Bar collection.

How to Enjoy the Orange Peel Bar

Ecuadorian Essence suggests letting each square melt slowly and pairing the Orange Peel bar with espresso, black tea or port, so the citrus and cacao aromas open up.
It also works as a simple dessert after dinner, with fresh fruit. Store in a dry place at 16–18°C (below 75°F) to avoid melting.
It also works well with citrus-forward cocktails.

For Gourmet Stores, Cafés & Hotels

Ecuadorian Essence supplies the Orange Peel bar at wholesale pricing to gourmet stores, cafés and hotels in the DMV, offering an approachable single-origin dark chocolate with traceable Ecuadorian origin.
The minimum wholesale order is one wholesale box of 12 bars. Complete the “Become a Distributor” form or write to sales@ecuadorianessence.com. The Orange Peel bar is also included in the Farm to Bar Gift Box, with Bee Pollen and Toasted Coffee. Ecuadorian Essence ships within the United States, with delivery in 5–7 business days, and sells in person at curated markets and fairs across Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland.
Ecuadorian Essence products are foods and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always check the product label for complete ingredient and allergen information.