#Japan #Tokyo #Minimal #Craft Cola #Tanzanian Cacao

Get Ready for a Refreshing Summer Treat!

Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the introduction of a unique chocolate that captures the essence of craft cola. Minimal, a specialty chocolate brand based in Shibuya, Tokyo and known for its bean-to-bar craftsmanship, is launching the limited edition "SEASONAL Tanzanian Craft Cola" chocolate. This exciting creation will be available starting August 1, 2026, across multiple locations including their online store, Tomigaya main store, Azabudai Hills store, and Sengawa store.

A Unique Summer Experience

This chocolate embodies the invigorating taste of craft cola, carefully designed for those hot summer days when you crave something refreshing. Unlike the quick rush of traditional cola, this chocolate offers an experience that unfolds gradually in your mouth, allowing you to savor the diverse aromas and flavors it presents. The flavor profile is built around three key elements of craft cola: syrup, spices, and citrus. The citrus notes are artfully represented with fruity Tanzanian cacao, while the sweetness and spice are enhanced with four specially chosen spices. This careful combination creates a chocolate that is as enjoyable on a hot day as it is refreshing.

The Flavorful Journey Through Tanzanian Cacao

The decision to use Tanzanian cacao came after extensive experimentation with various cacao beans from around the world, including Madagascar and Peru. The team discovered that the Tanzanian beans, renowned for their mellowness and fruity flavor, produced the best results. The cacao content is artfully balanced at 60%, complemented by granulated sugar derived from beets, ensuring a gentle sweetness that enhances the aromatic spices while highlighting the chocolate's cola-like richness.

A Symphony of Spices

Instead of the commonly used coriander seeds in traditional colas, Minimal selected a blend of cacao and cardamom to create an innovative citrus profile. Each of the four spices plays a unique role:

• - Cardamom: This spice combines beautifully with Tanzanian cacao, creating a fresh citrus note.
• - Cinnamon and Clove: These spices contribute depth, enhancing both the syrup's sweetness and richness.
• - Ginger: Adds a tightening effect, leaving a clean and crisp aftertaste that balances the overall flavor.

Perfect Texture for a Summer Delight

The chocolate's texture also contributes to its allure. Minimal has chosen a medium coarsely ground cacao bean for this creation, ensuring a delightful mouthfeel that is light and refreshing. This texture helps maintain the chocolate's charm when chilled, allowing for the harmonious interplay of sweetness and spice to shine through.

Availability and Pricing

"SEASONAL Tanzanian Craft Cola" is priced at ¥1,790 (tax included) and will be available in limited quantities starting August 1, 2026. Once they are gone, they are gone! The chocolate can be found at the following locations:

• - Tomigaya Main Store
• - Azabudai Hills Store
• - Sengawa Store
• - Online Store

Craftsmanship at Minimal

Minimal's team consists of skilled chocolatiers and patissiers dedicated to producing high-quality chocolates from beans sourced around the globe. The brand emphasizes an approach of simplicity and precision, aiming to maximize the flavors of their ingredients. The artisans at Minimal have honed their skills at Michelin-starred restaurants and top patisseries, working collaboratively to create chocolates and sweets that elevate everyday experiences.

Commitment to Sustainability

The cacao used in Minimal products is deeply rooted in sustainable practices. The company works directly with cacao farmers, sharing knowledge on fermentation and drying techniques, while collaborating on flavor development that meets high-quality standards. Their commitment to responsible sourcing and ethical trading includes participation in JICA's ODA projects in Nicaragua in 2019, enhancing local cacao industries' economic independence.

A Celebration of Flavor

With a philosophy centered around simplicity and innovation, Minimal continues to impress and enchant chocolate lovers. Their consistent dedication to producing award-winning chocolates is reflected in their accolades: an impressive total of 112 awards over 11 consecutive years at international competitions. Minimal's chocolate aims to bring color to everyday life, leaving a lasting memory that makes you want to enjoy more.

For more information and to explore their offerings, visit Minimal’s official website at mini-mal.tokyo or follow them on social media.