Kealakekua

Mānoa Chocolate is a tree-to-bar maker based in Kailua, Hawaii. As one of the few producers working directly with local Hawaiian harvests, they bridge the gap between the orchard and the final bar. This specific release is named Kealakekua, highlighting the precise location of its origin.

The Kealakekua bar is composed of 70% cacao, organic cane sugar, and cocoa butter. During production, the cacao is refined in a melanger to achieve its final texture. The resulting profile captures the unique character of the Hard Rock Gardens farm, showcasing flavor notes of strawberry, macadamia nut, and vanilla. This approach has earned the bar several accolades, including recognition at the 2018 International Chocolate Awards and the Academy of Chocolate.

The focus here remains on the source, utilizing beans grown in the Kealakekua region of Hawai'i Island. By controlling the processing from the initial harvest through to the finished bar, the maker maintains a direct link to the agricultural practices of the farm, ensuring the profile of the Hawaiian cacao remains the focal point of the tasting experience.