RAW COCOA BEANS- PERU Cajamarca Oro Del Chimchipe

The San Ignacio region is located in northeastern Peru, in the fertile valleys of the Chinchipe River, a tropical area bordering the Ecuadorian Amazon. Here, small producers organized within the Huarango District Cacao Growers Association cultivate fine-flavor cacao originating from an exceptional genetic heritage: a rare combination of Nacional and Marañón cacao, identified through genetic analysis as one of Peru’s most valuable native cacao lineages.

San Ignacio is one of Peru’s most privileged cacao-growing regions, a territory where the Andes meet the tropical forests of the Amazon. The diverse altitudes, rich alluvial soils, and warm, humid climate create ideal conditions for the development of native cacao varieties with refined aromatic profiles. The Chinchipe River valley, which crosses the region, acts as a natural biodiversity corridor, protecting cacao trees and providing the conditions for slow and uniform fruit maturation.

Agriculture in this area remains largely traditional, based on agroforestry systems where cacao grows alongside banana trees, shade trees, and native species. This balanced ecosystem contributes significantly to the aromatic richness and complexity of the beans.

Fermentation:

After the cacao pods are opened, the beans with their surrounding pulp are left overnight on covered beds. This initial stage reduces excess moisture and prepares the cacao mass for a more uniform fermentation process.

Fermentation takes place in horizontal wooden boxes over a period of seven days. Temperature is carefully monitored, and the cacao mass is turned periodically to ensure proper aeration and encourage the development of complex flavors. This long but controlled fermentation process is essential for floral varieties such as Nacional, which require sufficient time to reveal their full aromatic potential.

Drying:

After fermentation, the beans are naturally dried on covered wooden tables for approximately seven days. The slow drying process preserves the delicate floral and fruity notes that define the character of this exceptional origin.