Abiseo

Made up of mostly Local Natives mixed with some Trinitarios, this fine-flavoured cacao bean hails from the northern Peruvian department of San Martín—a predominantly mountainous terrain that’s difficult to farm, but perfect for producing quality cacao with a citric to floral flavour profile accented by mild red fruit notes.

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Aside from its unique flavour profile, what makes this bean origin intriguing is the role it’s played in reshaping this region of the San Martín department. Historically, this has been an area with considerable coca leaf production—a crop with various medicinal functions that’s inextricably linked to the Indigenous way of life which, unfortunately, also happens to be the main ingredient in cocaine. As a way of freeing people from the oppressive farming conditions and to disrupt the illicit cocaine supply chain, the Peruvian government alongside other international governments have been incentivizing alternative crop growing, like coffee and cacao.

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For over 15 years, this international collaboration has assisted farmers with networking, infrastructure, management, security, and certifications (organic), helping the people of this region achieve more dependable income, more environmentally sustainable farming practices, and a better way of life. 

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And it has really begun to show.

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Peru is now one of the biggest exporters of organic cacao beans in the world, even though Peru’s total cacao output accounts for only ~3% of the world’s production. The San Martín department now produces over 40% of Peru’s total output.

 

The Choba Choba Co-op that we source the cacao from is grown on 109 agroforestry plots, ranging from 0.2 to 4 hectares, owned by the 40 cooperative members. These plots are located along the banks of the Huayabamba River in the communities of Pucallpillo, Santa Rosa, Pizarro, and Bello Horizonte.  The cacao is cultivated following agroecology and agroforestry principles, emphasizing nature-based solutions and nutrient recycling. This commitment is formalized and enshrined in the Articles of Association of the Choba Choba Cooperative.   The post-harvest process that Choba Choba abides to is very standardized, resulting in very special and consistent fermented cacao, which has made them one the best co-ops in Peru. 

 

 

5kg boxes available in our shop. For any other volumes please contact us.