Learn how to truly experience chocolate, not just eat it. Breathe in the chocolaty aromas, gaze at the glossy brown surface, listen for the distinctive snap of a gourmet chocolate bar being broken. Not unlike wine, chocolate tasting is an experience that expands far beyond taste. Engage all of your senses and get more out of your chocolate experience with these tasting tips:
STORING CHOCOLATE
Keep your stash in a cool, dry place; no need to refrigerate. Savoring chocolate at the right temperature heightens the taste experience, so before your first bite allow your chocolate to reach room temperature (65-68F).
PALATE CLEANSER
The best results are obtained with a clean palate. To get the true sense of taste, sip or rinse with water or lemon juice before you indulge. Like wine tasting, start with the
Keep your stash in a cool, dry place; no need to refrigerate. Savoring chocolate at the right temperature heightens the taste experience, so before your first bite allow your chocolate to reach room temperature (65-68F).
PALATE CLEANSER
The best results are obtained with a clean palate. To get the true sense of taste, sip or rinse with water or lemon juice before you indulge. Like wine tasting, start with the
lighter, milk chocolates and then gradually move on to the dark chocolates. This will keep you from overwhelming your palate by saving the strongest flavors for last.
EYE CANDY
Take a minute to note how the chocolate looks. Its surface should be glossy and smooth with no visible blemishes. Dark chocolate typically has a deliciously deep brown hue, while milk chocolate boasts shades of light brown with golden tones.
MUSIC TO THE EARS
When fine quality chocolate is broken, you should hear a crisp, definitive snap. The chocolate should not crumble or bend.
