The Sweet Fusion of Chocolate and Japanese Citrus
In a delightful collaboration, the chocolate brand Dari K is preparing to launch its newest creation—Orangette - Kiyomi Orange - which marries the best of Japanese citrus with fine chocolate. The brainchild of this partnership is Hashimoto, an orangette expert renowned for his passion for citrus fruits. This exclusive treat will be available for pre-sale on Makuake starting September 3, 2025, giving chocolate aficionados an early taste before the broader release.
The star ingredient, the Kiyomi orange from Ehime Prefecture, is known for its juicy sweetness and refreshing aroma. To create this orangette, these luscious oranges are meticulously candied using a unique syrup immersion process that lasts a month, culminating in a beautifully moist and tasty product. This careful technique ensures the oranges retain their distinct texture and natural flavors while making them the perfect match for Dari K's rich dark chocolate.
The Art of Creating the Perfect Orangette
Dari K’s dark chocolate, boasting a fruity acidity with 78% cacao, complements the orangette beautifully. Sourcing cacao directly from farmers in Indonesia, Dari K emphasizes quality and sustainability. The chocolate used is not just a coating; it embodies the essence of ethically produced cacao cultivated with love and care.
Hashimoto's process also holds a significant importance in highlighting the soul of the Kiyomi orange. This expert slices the oranges into precisely 6mm thick pieces, using minimal heat during processing to preserve the natural flavors. The result is a vibrant, flavorful orangette that encapsulates the essence of both chocolate and citrus, delivering an unforgettable tasting experience.
Why This Collaboration Matters
Dari K, driven by a mission to elevate the quality of chocolate and stand by farmers, has spent over a decade building strong relationships with cacao growers. Their philosophy revolves around quality over price—this involves teaching farming techniques and methods to enhance cacao quality for both producers and consumers. The recent partnership with Hashimoto is a natural fit, both parties sharing a dedication to the ingredients and the stories behind them.
Hashimoto himself, having left a corporate job to pursue his passion for orangettes, emphasizes the importance of local citrus producers. His brand, oranjewel, showcases the beauty of Japanese citrus in unique confections. His dedication is evident in his interactions with local growers and the meticulous detail he applies in creating each orangette. He envisions his work as a way to support and increase awareness of Japanese agriculture; creating products that not only taste exquisite but also promote local farmers.
Product Overview
- - Product Name: Orangette - Kiyomi Orange -
- - Contents: Pack of 5 slices
- - Ingredients: Candied orange (orange, sugar; domestically produced), chocolate (cocoa mass, cocoa butter, sugar), (contains dairy, soy, and orange)
- - Price: ¥2,484 including tax, excluding shipping costs
- - Release: Late November 2025
Makuake Project Details
The launch of Orangette - Kiyomi Orange is being preceded by a crowdfunding campaign on Makuake. Arguably, this is not just about selling a product; it’s about sharing a vision of supporting farmers and spreading awareness of local agriculture.
Campaign Duration: September 3 - October 19, 2025
Shipping: October 23 - 24, 2025
Project Page:
Makuake - Orangette Project
Through this project, customers can enjoy not only the unique orangettes but also appreciate the hard work of those who lovingly bring these ingredients to life. With tiered rewards including exclusive sets featuring orangettes and chocolate truffles, it is an ideal opportunity for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious treat while contributing to sustainable farming practices.
Dari K continues to innovate in the chocolate world with a deep respect for its ingredients and partners, aiming for a sweet future where everyone—from farm to table—thrives together.
About Dari K
Dari K emphasizes its commitment to quality chocolate made from cacao sourced sustainably in Indonesia. They strive to create a win-win situation for all involved, reflected in their motto: "All-win Chocolate"—ensuring that everyone, from producers to consumers, enjoys the fruits of their labor.
CEO: Ryosuke Kokubo
Address: 72-2, Murasakizuka Nishitaka-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto 603-8205
Founded: 2011
Website:
Dari K Official Site
About Hashimoto
Hashimoto's commitment to high-quality citrus is evident in his hands-on approach to crafting orangettes through his brand, oranjewel. He aligns with local producers, emphasizing the narrative and care of each ingredient he uses. His expertise extends to overseeing popular events, thus spreading appreciation for Japanese citrus fruits and linking them with premium chocolate.
CEO: Takayuki Hashimoto
Address: 863-3 Yamaminami, Ninomiya, Kanagawa 259-0124
Instagram:
oranjewel