Nestled in the Central highland of Vietnam, the province of Dak Lak is home to nearly 30,000 acres of pepper trees and countless coffee plantations. This certainly influences the cacao, which has a characteristic acidic and robust initial taste, followed by a long earthy, smokey, and spicy finish.
Vietnamese cacao is known for its remarkable depth and natural notes of smoke and spice. To complement its richness, we use long pepper—an ancient spice with a warmth softer and more aromatic than black pepper. Infused into the chocolate, it unfolds gradually on the palate with hints of pine, dried fruit and gentle heat. The result is layered and lingering: bold cacao balanced by a spice that feels both exotic and familiar, grounding the bar in warmth and complexity.
Ingredient Spotlight
Long Pepper
Unlike black pepper, which delivers a sharp, immediate bite, long pepper offers a gentle warmth that unfolds slowly across the palate. Its flavour is richer and more complex, with and almost comparatively sweet complemented by hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Rather than dominating the chocolate, long pepper enhances the cacao’s natural character, creating a lingering finish that is warm, slightly floral, and beautifully balanced.
Flavour Profile
Naturally Smoky
Roasted cocoa opens the flavour experience moving seamlessly into the smoky character that makes Vietnamese cacao so distinctive. Long pepper adds a gentle spice note.
Ethical Chocolate: Our Promise
At Compass Chocolates, our commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability goes beyond mere words. We believe that exceptional chocolate should not only taste good but also do good. That's why we meticulously select our ingredients, prioritizing partnerships with suppliers who share our values.
Our Sourcing Philosophy
We source our high-quality milk chocolate from reputable suppliers who adhere to fair trade practices, ensuring that farmers and workers receive fair wages and work in safe conditions. We're committed to building long-term relationships with our suppliers, fostering mutual respect and transparency.
Sustainability in Action
We're dedicated to minimizing our environmental impact. From packaging choices to ingredient selection, we strive to make sustainable decisions at every step. We continuously explore ways to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices, with a strong commitment to using recyclable and compostable packaging whenever possible.
Find Compass Chocolates Near You
Experience the unique flavours of Compass Chocolates for yourself! Find our gourmet chocolates at select partner stores.
