Chuncho Urusayhua cacao is harvested in the Quillabamba Valley by independent small farmers and is considered one of the finest and most complex cacao varieties in Peru. Only 15 to 20 tons are harvested annually, and only a few chocolate manufacturers are lucky enough to process these beans.
The resulting chocolate is characterized by delicate notes of dried fruits, preserved sultanas, and nuts. It is notably sweet, with a creamy texture that gives it a delicious, long finish.
The Bean-to-Bar chocolate manufacturer Encuentro Chocolat was founded by Candice Lelong and Antoine Vallas in Saint-André-lez-Lille, northern France. Inspired by their time in Latin America and a commitment to sustainable cacao farming, they place great emphasis on Fair Trade. Encuentro sources cacao beans directly from producers in countries such as the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Mexico, Peru, and Congo. Despite being a small company, it has earned national and international recognition for its dedication to quality and close collaboration with cacao farmers. Their focus is on dark chocolate that authentically reflects the character of the cacao.