Ucayali River, Pucallpa, Peru
Ucayali River Cacao is a central fermentary that works with cocoa farmers along the Ucayali River outside of the Peruvian city of Pucallpa. The region has historically been afflicted with unrest from narco-trafficking and the presence of the Shining Path militant group. Ucayali River Cacao has partnered with USAID and Alianza Peru to give local farmers access to a legal alternative market to cocaine.
Working with around 400 smallholder farmers with 1-3 hectares of land each, Ucayali River Cacao buys wet cacao at a premium. They have worked with Daniel O’Doherty of Cacao Services to hone their fermenting and drying processes.
- Cacao: 72%
- Fermentation Style: Wooden boxes
- Drying Style: Sun dried on elevated racks in a greenhouse
- Flavor Profile: Bright red berries dance over a creamy chocolate base