Rich volcanic chocolate, distinctly and deliciously complex. Cocoa grown in the volcanic soil of islands dotted around the Pacific, Indian Ocean and Caribbean is known for yielding a mosaic of taste notes from deep treacle and caramel to light and citrusy top notes. It's this cocoa that makes Firetree so distinctive and makes it worth the arduous journeys to work directly with skilled and dedicated single-estate farmers.
FAQs about Firetree's volcanic chocolate 2024
Volcanic chocolate is made from cocoa beans that grow in the rich, volcanic soils of many remote islands across the Pacific and Indian oceans. Cocoa trees only grow in a certain band on either side of the equator. This warm, subtropical climate, combined with the rich soil and the care and expertise of our single-estate farmers, produces cocoa beans unsurpassed in their taste complexity.
It’s here in the South Pacific and Oceania, and a few other places like the volcanic island of Madagascar, where we source our cocoa.
Only a very small percentage of the world's cocoa can truly be considered 'volcanic' and it's this rarity that makes the long and difficult journey from these remote islands to your UK doorstep worth every step.
Firetree’s Volcanic Chocolate is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids such as catechins, epicatechins, and procyanidins. These antioxidants help neutralise free radicals in the body, which can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Studies suggest that moderate consumption of volcanic dark chocolate may have beneficial effects on heart health. The flavonoids in dark chocolate can improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, and increase HDL ("good") cholesterol levels, all of which contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system.
The flavonoids in volcanic chocolate bars may also benefit brain health. They can increase blood flow to the brain, enhance cognitive function, and improve memory and focus. Consuming dark chocolate in moderation may help support overall brain health and cognitive performance.
Firetree’s volcanic chocolate is sourced from various islands including the Solomon Islands, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Madagascar and the Dominican Republic.
For example, the island of Guadalcanal, nestled in the heart of the Solomon Islands, is home to some of the finest cocoa from this region. Honiara is the Capital of the Solomon Islands and the main port for all exports, including cocoa, coconut, and tuna. The cocoa trees grow in this rich volcanic soil, protected from the midday sun beneath high coconut palms.
In Papua New Guinea our volcanic chocolate comes from the cocoa of Karkar Island, which sits off the Northeast coast of Papua New Guinea. Even before you arrive, the slopes of this 40-mile across, once-active volcano rises straight from the sea and is visible from miles around.
Firetree volcanic chocolate is indeed suitable for gifting, especially if the recipient is a chocolate enthusiast or appreciates high-quality artisanal chocolates.
Firetree is known for its premium chocolate products made from cocoa beans sourced from volcanic soils in remote regions, which contribute to unique flavour profiles and luxurious experiences.
The volcanic soil where the cocoa beans are grown can impart distinct flavours to the chocolate, such as fruity, floral, or earthy notes. This uniqueness adds an element of exploration and surprise to the gifting experience.
We also package our chocolates in elegant and visually appealing packaging, making them suitable for gifting on various occasions. The packaging may include decorative boxes, artistic designs, or informative details about the chocolate's origin and flavour profile.