Opening the bar is part of the experience. Before tasting it, there is an immediate, calming aroma of lavender rising from the chocolate, with hints of pine, citrus and other floral notes. The finish is long and distinctly floral, lingering on the tongue and evoking the atmosphere of a walking in a shady forest in spring. It is perhaps only lacking in a citrus note to compliment these base not flavours, and to lift the chocolate slightly.
The first taste and melt on the tongue introduces the distinctive character of Ritual’s Mid Mountain cacao blend, followed by the unusual combination of dried juniper berries (used in making gin) and culinary lavender. The flavours are aromatic and floral, with the juniper bringing a subtle pine-like character (typical of some gins) and the lavender adding a gentle, fragrant note.
This is not an everyday chocolate, nor is it likely to appeal to everyone, like gin is not everybody’s favourite cocktail. But that is part of its appeal. It has a genuinely distinctive flavour profile and leaves a lasting impression.
This is one for dark chocolate lovers who want something a bit different and less heavy. For me, it feels particularly suited to spring — and perhaps best enjoyed slowly, with good company and yes, a light gin and tonic with a wedge of lemon alongside it.
Overall Rating: 7 out of 10