Each chocolate maker had the opportunity to offer samples of their finest chocolate paired with the libation of their choice.
Later, we indulged in a series of delicious chocolate pairings at Chili Rojo, one of the finest restaurants in Puerto Viejo. There were several interesting presentations, including one by American chocolate maker Steve Devries, who was visiting from Colorado.
Can you spot the toucan and iguana in the piece?ĭay two of the festival was the largest public event, at which chocolate makers and chocolate lovers gathered to indulge in all sorts of chocolate flavours, entertainment, and craziness, including aerial dancers and the hypnotic dance of the cacao in which we were all invited to join in.ĭay three of the festival was one of my favourites. I adored this piece of original art on the walls at Stash’s. The walls at Stash’s are adorned with local art, and the tropical gardens on the grounds are a welcoming touch. A truly delicious meal in a lovely setting.
The chocolate judging was followed by a fabulous dinner at Stash’s featuring an excellent chicken molé and talapia fish encrusted with locally grown macadamia nuts. Quite a tasty task, although I admit to not liking one of the truffles. Judging focused on five categories: the aroma, mouthfeel, flavour, and finish (lingering flavours on the tongue), as well as the judge’s overall impression of each chocolate. It was tough tasting 11 single origin samples, but we judges persevered! I had been invited to be a judge at the 2014 festival, so had the pleasure of judging the single origin chocolate and the flavour infused chocolate truffles.
The folks who organized the Puerto Viejo Chocolate Fest in Costa Rica really know how to throw a party! The festival runs for four days and offers a wonderful variety of events to enjoy throughout the laid-back beach resort community.