#Japan #Terroir #Maison Cacao #Kamakura #Gateau Chocolat

Discover the Terroir with Maison Cacao's New Gâteau Chocolat No. 1

On January 1st, Maison Cacao, a renowned chocolate brand originating from Kamakura, unveils its latest creation: the "Gâteau Chocolat Terroir Collection No. 1." Known for its commitment to freshness and quality, Maison Cacao strives to offer a unique experience that showcases the subtle differences in cacao's terroir through a monthly selection of twelve exquisite Gâteau Chocolat varieties. This innovative approach begins at the very roots of cacao cultivation, spanning from their proprietary farms to carefully selected partner farms in Colombia.

The No. 1 edition is delivered in a beautifully crafted box made of traditional handmade washi paper by the esteemed Nagao Paper Workshop. This artisanal piece not only reflects natural beauty but also carries the essence of the rice straw that connects deeply with the region's rich agricultural history. The straw, symbolic of rice cultivation, has been intricately incorporated into the washi, encapsulating the memories and landscapes of Nagao.

Flavor Profile of Gâteau Chocolat No. 1

At a price point of 3,780 yen (including tax), the Gâteau Chocolat No. 1 masterfully represents the diverse flavors of distinct cacao origins. The cacao hails from the Huila region in the southwestern Andes, where varying altitudes contribute to a spectrum of climates, enriched by abundant water sources and fertile soil. The resulting cacao offers a harmonious blend of boldness and delicacy, accentuated by a bittersweet aftertaste, maturation notes, and refreshing acidity.

Crafting the Gâteau Chocolat No. 1

Maison Cacao places significant emphasis on the cultivation process, fermentation, and roasting methods to accentuate the complex musicality within the ingredients. By carefully blending cacao from various regions, the final creation—a symphony of flavors and aromas—comes to life. Savor the culinary journey with each bite as the notes of cacao unfold gradually, revealing a melodious experience that delights the palate.

Embracing Terroir at Maison Cacao

Terroir, which refers to the environmental factors that influence the taste and properties of the chocolate, is central to Maison Cacao’s philosophy. Each chocolate's unique character is brought to life through the meticulous craft of skilled artisans who understand the land's soil, climate, and history. Colombia’s rich geography, including the Andes mountain ranges, contributes mineral-rich waterways essential for cacao’s growth. The region fosters a diverse ecosystem, yielding a wide array of vibrant flavor profiles in the cacao beans, which are nurtured in various natural environments.

Expertise in Blending

Maison Cacao's distinctive approach to blending cacao involves meticulous adjustments in the proportions of cacao mass, cocoa butter, milk, and sugar, down to 0.1%. Their techniques blend locally sourced cacao liqueurs, creating unique chocolate that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Each creation reflects an extraordinary commitment to quality, ensuring that only the finest chocolate is produced—a truly one-of-a-kind offering.

Limited Availability and Sales Locations

Beginning January 1st, the Gâteau Chocolat No. 1 will be available in limited quantities across all eight Maison Cacao locations. Only 500 pieces will be sold, each marked with a serial number, making this a collector's item for chocolate enthusiasts. Availability is limited to:

• - MAISON CACAO Kamakura Main Store (1-9-33 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa)
• - MAISON CACAO Kamakura Komachi Store (2-9-7 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa)
• - MAISON CACAO Marunouchi Store (3-3-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo)
• - MAISON CACAO NEWoMAN Yokohama Store (1-1-1 Nakanoshima, Yokohama, Kanagawa)
• - MAISON CACAO Gransta Tokyo Store (1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda, Tokyo)
• - MAISON CACAO Haneda Airport Store (3-3-2 Haneda Airport, Ota, Tokyo)
• - MAISON CACAO JR Nagoya Takashimaya Store (1-1-4 Nagoya, Aichi)
• - Online Shop (Maison Cacao Online Shop)

About Maison Cacao

Founded by Shin Go Ishihara, Maison Cacao's origins lie in the vibrant cacao culture he discovered in Colombia. With a vision to create chocolates that not only taste exceptional but also enrich people's lives, Maison Cacao endeavors to establish a chocolate culture in Japan. The brand commits itself to sustainable practices, supporting cacao farming and educational initiatives in Colombia. Through these efforts, Maison Cacao not only nurtures a quality chocolate experience but also contributes to a brighter future.