I noted in an earlier post that I try to buy up tasting squares when I can. I like that I can buy several brands of chocolate in one swoop without depleting my bank account, and when you come across a company like TCHO that makes it easy for you, you're probably more inclined to consume their stuff first. I picked up a four-flavor sampler at the Chelsea Market the other week and wanted a small after-lunch treat. By random I plucked the "Fruity" square from a pack that also contains "Citrus" and "Nutty" - at least I won't have to entirely guess while eating.
As the name implies, this bar gave off a sweet, fruit-scented nose. By fruit, now, I'm thinking some in the way of dark berry, like a black raspberry that isn't too sugary or overpowering. The bar snapped well, showing solid chocolate throughout. This is a 68% cacao, and presented a slightly sweeter taste than something you'd enjoy in the 70+ range, and what I found interesting is that the longer I held the chocolate on my tongue, the more flavors I detected. I caught a hint of nut and earthy tones in the finish, almost like coffee. I would hesitate to call this one "Fruity" as the latter flavors tend to usurp the initial nose. It's made me curious to try the other varieties, too, to detect similarities among them.
Of course, I like earthier bars, so I didn't find this one unpleasant. TCHO appears to be the type of company that is always testing new bars and techniques, so one can guess where this particular square fell in their production line. I will try to get the others tasted for comparison soon.
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