Cacao, Gift of the Gods: Bridging the Past and the Present

November 23, 2024

República del Cacao was part of an exciting movement led by the Fine Cacao and Chocolate Institute, a scholar-led research organization that seeks to reduce information asymmetry in the cacao and chocolate value chain. Cacao: The Gift of the Gods, an event held at the Museum of Food and Drink in New York, was a night of knowledge exchange, networking, and homage to the history of cacao. Chocolate researchers Jose Lopez Ganem (Boston University), Dr. Carla D. Martin (Harvard University), and Dr. Kathryn Sampeck (University of Reading) led intimate, expert-guided tours of archaeological Mesoamerican artifacts related to cacao before they were returned to their countries of origin in Central America. At República del Cacao, we not only honor cacao, but also the cultures and communities that have cultivated it for centuries.

We promote the exchange of knowledge through events, workshops, training sessions, courses, and projects with universities and institutes, with the aim of supporting the professional development and the continuation of the art of chocolate.

 

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At the event, New York-based Pastry Chefs and Chocolatiers Jean-Louis Berthet (Executive Pastry Chef at Maman), Ursula XVII (Founder of Disset Chocolate), and Milène Jardine (Founder of Milène Jardine Chocolatier) were featured. Their chocolate creations were part of the sensory experience, a blend of the traditional and contemporary, paying homage to the cultural heritage of the Mesoamerican region.

Some of the delights featured were:

  • Mexico 66% Dark Hot Chocolate: A modern take on traditional hot chocolate made with Mexican vanilla, Espelette pepper, and white chocolate with roasted corn.
  • Mom Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies.
  • Milene Jardine Puriste Dark Chocolate Truffles.
  • Disset Corn Brûlée Bar with Ecuador 33% White Chocolate and Roasted Corn.
  • Assortment of passion fruit, blackberry, naranjilla, and mango bonbons.

 

At República del Cacao, we aim to create unforgettable experiences through our chocolates, creations, and events.

We invite our clients to discover the authentic flavors and impactful stories of our Latin American terroirs, elevating their chocolate journey.