Chocolate Tree

Haggis Spice - 58% dark chocolate with haggis spices - Organic

For those who do not know: Haggis is the Scottish national dish of offal, which is made with traditional haggis spices: black pepper, allspice, nutmeg and clove. What seems wintry at first glance, however, also does well year-round. The pretty box is designed with a Celtic pattern around the frame and has a viewing window for the chocolate bar. A tartan check runs along the edge of the box to emphasize its Scottish heritage. Centered on the box, a gold Chocolate Tree logo shines in the light.

As soon as you open the plastic-free packaging, the aroma of rosemary combined with the fruitiness of the dark Chocolate flows towards you. It is a sweet and at the same time spicy scent with a hint of spiciness. In the mouth, the Chocolate first reveals its spicy qualities, along with a slight saltiness. Black pepper is the first to emerge, gently warming the back of the mouth as it melts. Next, the flavor of rosemary emerges. A hint of thyme comes through on the finish, complemented by the bite of the oatmeal that gives the bar structure.

Thanks to the herbs and spices, the 58% dark chocolate is perfectly balanced. The fruity qualities of the Chocolate are hard to discern compared to the haggis spices, but they hum along at a deep level. In the aftertaste, the herbs linger for a short while, but it's the warmth of the black pepper that lasts longest after the Chocolate is gone. A slight sweetness lingers on the palate that is very satisfying.

All in all, this is - to the non-Scotsman - an idiosyncratic bar Chocolate, combining sweet and savory in a way that really works. It is unusual, unexpected and quite different from the typical dark chocolate. It is ideal as a treat to dip into once in a while to satisfy your cravings. It also makes a wonderful gift for foodies and a great conversation starter when this Haggis Spice from Chocolate Tree is served at a dinner party or small gathering.