Everyone is familiar with IQ, the acronym for intelligence quotient. I propose a new measurement: AQ, for something’s addiction quotient. If there were such a term, Pralus’ chocolates would get a 10 on a scale of 1-10.
Their bars are rich, well-tempered, complex, highly satisfying, and eminently easy to scarf down. I had eaten 98% of this one before focusing on my review. The aroma was woodsy, and deeply chocolatey. Edgy overtones complimented light coffee notes against the incredibly smooth texture Pralus manages to coax from each bean. While it was not particularly fruity or aromatic, its earthiness, especially when delivered through Pralus’ incredibly creamy texture, struck just the right chord. The beans are of the Forastero variety, the workhorse of the cacao trinity: Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario.
I initially tasted Brésil when I was reviewing Caracas, which is made from Trinitario beans. As the Buddha said, comparison is misery. Next to the milder Trinitario based bar, this one seemed slightly harsh and a bit too intense. But, subsequent tastings have shown me how deliciously balanced and captivating it is when eaten alone: Brésil qua Brésil.
CHOCOLATE RATINGS 