Filippine 75

Bagai is an Italian bean to bar maker dedicated to the meticulous transformation of fine cacao into distinctive chocolate bars. Based in Italy, this producer emphasizes a craft approach, overseeing every stage of production from the raw bean to the finished 50 gram bar. Their Filippine 75 expression highlights the unique terroir of the Davao region in the Philippines, a location increasingly celebrated for its high quality Trinitario cacao.

This dark chocolate is defined by a 75 percent cacao content and a minimalist ingredient list consisting only of roasted cacao and raw cane sugar. Bagai employs a light roast to preserve the delicate characteristics of the Trinitario beans, which are then refined in a melanger to achieve a smooth texture. The resulting profile is complex and bright, offering surprising notes of fresh mint and green apple, followed by the deeper sweetness of dried apricot and a touch of licorice.

By omitting additives like lecithin and vanillin, Bagai ensures that the natural essence of the Davao cacao remains the focal point. This commitment to purity and processing excellence has earned the Filippine 75 significant recognition, including Silver awards at the International Chocolate Awards for the Italian and Mediterranean region in both the 2021-22 and 2023 seasons. It stands as a sophisticated marriage of Philippine terroir and Italian craftsmanship.