#Japan #Tokyo #Craft Chocolate #Minimal #Cocoa

Minimal's New Chocolate Experience

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Minimal - Bean to Bar Chocolate, a specialty chocolate store established by βace in Tokyo, is exploring new horizons with the launch of its finely ground cocoa chocolate bars. Beginning in December 2024, they will introduce 18 types of chocolate bars, and the second phase of their new series featuring ‘SAVORY FINE’ and ‘HIGH CACAO FINE’ will hit the shelves starting May 16, 2025.

The Art of Grinding: A Unique Approach to Chocolate

One distinct characteristic of Minimal’s chocolates is their unique crunchy texture, preserved through their proprietary grinding process. By employing a ‘coarse grind’ method, preserving larger cocoa particles (around 150μm), they achieved a crunchy sensation reminiscent of savory fish sashimi, allowing the true flavors of the cocoa beans to shine through.

This innovative approach creates an exceptional experience; even the tiniest modification in particle size can significantly alter aroma, taste, and mouthfeel. This attention to detail has led to a positive reception of their coarse chocolate among connoisseurs who appreciate the freshness and variety it brings.

With the introduction of the new finely ground cocoa bars (approximately 39μm), they have adopted a contrasting strategy. The finely ground chocolate maintains the authenticity of the cocoa beans while avoiding excessive processing, culminating in a cleaner and clearer taste profile. With a 12-hour conching process that involves meticulous temperature control, the balance of aroma and flavor is fine-tuned to perfection.

The Flavor Profiles of the Second Series

SAVORY FINE (Trinidad & Tobago 65%)

The preliminary coarse version of this chocolate introduced subtle notes of green tea. However, the finely ground formulation brings a smooth transition to nut tart-like flavors with softened bitterness and astringency. You'll also discover hints of brown sugar and inspirations of walnut pastries.

• - Price: ¥1,690 (Tax included)
• - Release Date: May 16, 2025 (Friday)
• - Available at: Minimal, Tomigaya Main Store

HIGH CACAO FINE (Ghana 90%)

This intense chocolate offers a robust flavor profile typical of dark chocolate, complemented by a toast-like aroma.

• - Price: ¥1,580 (Tax included)
• - Release Date: May 16, 2025 (Friday)
• - Available at: Minimal, Tomigaya Main Store

Note: Detailed information regarding the first series, ‘NUTTY FINE’ and ‘FRUITY FINE’, can be found here.

Tasting Adventures at the Tomigaya Main Store

At the Tomigaya Main Store, enthusiasts can enjoy a chocolate tasting experience featuring over 10 different varieties of chocolate bars. By comparing different origins and grind styles, customers can explore how distinct the flavors become based on the grinding process, deepening their understanding of chocolate’s complexities.

The knowledgeable staff, passionate about cocoa and chocolate, ensure that visitors can sample and discover their favorite flavors, making the experience memorable. You’ll surely leave with newfound appreciation for cocoa's versatility and taste.

Meet the Artisans Behind Minimal

The dedicated team of chocolatiers at Minimal travel globally to source high-quality cocoa beans, crafting chocolate through meticulous handwork. Their philosophy of ‘simple yet careful’ ensures that the finest ingredients bring out optimal flavors. They have honed their skills at award-winning restaurants and patisseries around the world.

They actively engage in research and collaboration with cocoa farmers, empowering them through quality control processes. Their commitment to developing sustainable cocoa practices aims for economic independence among farmers, supported by Fair Trade values. In 2019, their involvement with JICA led to a cocoa study project in Nicaragua.

Minimal's approach to craftsmanship has earned them recognition, winning 101 awards over the past decade. Their philosophy combines traditional methods with innovative visions to create memorable chocolates that invite patrons to want more.

Store Information

Enjoy a cozy café experience where you can relish chocolate specialties alongside coffee and parfaits at:

• - Minimal, Tomigaya Main Store

Address: 2-1-9 Tomigaya, Shibuya, Tokyo
Access: 6 minutes from Yoyogi-Hachiman Station on the Odakyu Line
Hours: Daily from 11:30 AM - 7:00 PM (Last Order 6:30 PM)

• - Additional Locations:

- The Baking Yoyogi-Uehara
- Patisserie Minimal Soshigaya-Okra
- The Specialty Azabudai Hills

For more details on Minimal, check their official website. Follow their journey on Instagram and other social media platforms.