Rose chocolate, specifically ruby chocolate, has a distinct fruity, berry-like flavor with slight tartness. It's not flavored with roses; rather, its unique taste and pink hue come from specially selected "ruby cacao beans."
Flavor Profile Breakdown:
- Fruity and Berry-Like: The most prominent characteristic is a natural sweetness resembling raspberries or other red berries. This is inherent to the bean itself and not added artificially.
- Slightly Tart: A subtle tartness balances the sweetness, preventing it from being cloying. This adds complexity to the flavor.
- Not Like Rosewater or Rose Flavored Items: It's important to note that "rose chocolate" refers to the color and naturally occurring berry-like flavor, not to chocolate infused with rose essence or rosewater. If chocolate is flavored with rosewater, it will have a floral, sometimes perfumey, flavor in addition to the chocolate notes.
Origin of the Flavor:
The unique flavor profile originates from "ruby cacao beans," which possess characteristics that differentiate them from regular cacao beans. These beans are grown in specific climate conditions in regions like Brazil, Ecuador, and the Ivory Coast of West Africa. Barry Callebaut, the company that invented ruby chocolate, has a specific processing method to unlock the flavor and color.
