Nacional Cacao

Also known as Arriba Nacional Cacao.

Grown predominantly in Arriba Mocache, Los Rios, Ecuador, with some stock grown in Colombia. Nacional Cacao shares the nuances of Criollo and hearty flavour of Forastero, and may be viewed having the best of both worlds. It regarded as a flavour cacao, though not quite as delicate or fine as Criollo. Unlike most Forasteros, which can be harsh and bitter, the bitterness level of these beans is practically zero - its flavour is smooth, which further adds to its unique character.

Typical Nacionals possess a delicate cacao flavour, accented by a perfumed floral scent and floral tones including a dominant jasmine note and nutty after-tones. However, some can be quite hearty and bear flavours of vanilla, coffee, spice and soft red fruits. It is a sweet bean, and in higher percentage cacao products (75% or more) it produces a sweeter, smoother chocolate given the same amount of sugar as a different bean.