Criollo
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Also known as: Criollo-Kakao, Edelkakao
Original, aromatic variety group of cocoa that is regarded as particularly fine but accounts for only a small share of the world harvest.
Criollo is considered the oldest cultivated form of cocoa and originates from Central America and northern South America. The beans are often pale inside and low in bitterness. Their aroma is described as mild, nutty and complex.
The trees are low-yielding and susceptible to disease, which is why Criollo is grown only in small quantities. It is one of the so-called fine cocoas and is mainly used for high-quality chocolate. Pure Criollo is rare, as many stocks have been crossed with other varieties.
