I discovered Askinosie - a small Missouri-based chocolatier - in New York City during my annual trip to Chelsea Market. While the shop offered a selection of their larger single origin bars, I decided to play safe and bought one of their "Itty Bitty" samplers, a 70% San Jose del Tambo Ecuador origin chocolate. To look at the company's website and product, they present a nicely rustic atmosphere enhanced by their packaging, which I can guess is eco-friendly. The military theme of some of their products (check out the C-Ration box on their website) is charming as well. Inspires one to want to order a batch for our troops.
Itty Bitty Bar is a thin bar with a waffle grid design and a nice gloss. I detected a sharp nose on opening the package and heard a mild satisfying snap. Held on the tongue, the chocolate released a sharp flavor with an almost... I don't know, I want to say a menthol finish, if you can believe that. I know that might not sound flattering, but it wasn't an unpleasant flavor, just very unusual to me, considering I've had quite a few 70 percents in my day. No earth tones or fruit, really, though I thought while eating it I detected a licorice. Askinosie, like another Missouri-based chocolate maker (Patric) doesn't appear to mass produce as major companies do - so I imagine there's a greater margin for surprises depending on where they get their beans.
If you're adventurous and a dark lovers, you'd likely enjoy this Askinosie variety. I'm intrigued enough to hit Chelsea when I go back next week and find another bar for comparison. Anyone else might think this bar too bitter for their tastes, but I do find it a flavor to grow on you.
If you're adventurous and a dark lovers, you'd likely enjoy this Askinosie variety. I'm intrigued enough to hit Chelsea when I go back next week and find another bar for comparison. Anyone else might think this bar too bitter for their tastes, but I do find it a flavor to grow on you.
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