Terroir in a Bar

Single-origin chocolates offer a chance to explore distinctive, surprising flavors

<i>Terroir</i> in a Bar
While blends have long dominated the chocolate industry, producers are increasingly focused on expressing the character of a particular place. (Jeff Harris)
From the Dec 31, 2022, issue

Wine has had a singular place in the West for centuries. It’s been central to trade, agricultural and technological innovation and culture. Interestingly, because of its importance, its origins have been codified and valued for longer than other gourmet products.

Today, chocolate (along with coffee and other goods) holds a similar esteem in the market to wine, while also maintaining very broad appeal. It doesn’t grow where wine does, so its known history is more recent, and the origin of cacao really only became important in the past couple of decades. Read more about the recent rise of single-origin chocolate, plus get six recommended bars to try! 

Member-Only Content

Premium Subscription

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Start Free 30-day Trial

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 400,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

Subscribe today

You Might Also Like

Castelmagno: Piedmontese Exemplar

Castelmagno: Piedmontese Exemplar

The Italian mountain cheese boasts rustic charm and a distinct expression of terroir

Apr 30, 2023
The Hazelnuts of Piedmont

The Hazelnuts of Piedmont

Exploring Italy's magical combination of hazelnuts and chocolate

Apr 30, 2023
All on a Mardi Gras Day: Feelin’ Fine with Toya Boudy’s Crab Cakes

All on a Mardi Gras Day: Feelin’ Fine with Toya Boudy’s Crab Cakes

The New Orleans cook shares a recipe from her new book, her secret to delectable crab cakes …

Feb 17, 2023
Pride of the Northwest

Pride of the Northwest

Winter and spring are peak seasons for Dungeness crab

Mar 31, 2023
Brazilian Brigadeiro Truffles for Valentine’s Day

Brazilian Brigadeiro Truffles for Valentine’s Day

This hands-on chocolate treat comes together quickly and pairs well with a variety of …

Apr 2, 2023
A Playful Valentine's Dessert

A Playful Valentine's Dessert

Fondue makes for a warm and homey date night in

Feb 28, 2023