New ZealandBean-to-Bar
AO Cacao
AO Cacao is a bean-to-bar maker from Aotearoa, New Zealand, crafting artisanal chocolate with a focus on direct trade and distinct regional origins.
Where to buy
Buy at AO CacaoThe maker's own online shop.
About
AO Cacao
AO Cacao is an artisanal bean-to-bar chocolate maker operating out of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Rooted in the craft movement, the maker focuses on transforming raw, single-origin cacao beans into refined bars, emphasizing the specific nuances of their sourcing regions. By overseeing the process from the raw bean to the finished bar, they maintain a hands-on approach that prioritizes the integrity of the ingredient.
The sensory profile of AO Cacao reflects their dedication to the bean-to-bar philosophy, often highlighting the natural terroir of the cacao. Each batch is crafted to showcase specific flavor notes that vary depending on the origin of the beans. Whether it is a subtle floral finish or a more robust, earthy profile, their style leans toward a clean expression of the cocoa bean, carefully balanced through their production techniques.
Integrity in the supply chain is a cornerstone of their philosophy. AO Cacao engages in direct trade practices, working to foster closer relationships with the producers who grow their cacao. This commitment to transparency ensures that they are closely connected to the source of their primary ingredient, reflecting a broader dedication to ethical sourcing and the sustainability of the farmers they partner with.
6 bars on Chof
Bars by AO Cacao
AO Cacao
60% Cacao Single Origin
60%milkPapua New Guinea
AO Cacao
60% Coffee, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Sea Salt
60%milkPapua New Guinea
AO Cacao
88% Single Estate, Pingtung County
88%darkTaiwan
AO Cacao
94% Cacao Single Origin
94%darkSolomon Islands
1 award
AO Cacao
Milne Bay 70%
70%darkPapua New Guinea
AO Cacao
Single Estate 76%
76%darkSamoa
Work at AO Cacao? Send us an update
AO Cacao bars with awards
1 award result for 1 bar, newest first. Each label links to that year on Chof's awards page, and the icon beside it to the awarding body's own winner list. How Chof lists awards
Origins AO Cacao works with
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3 makers
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Frequently Asked
About AO Cacao
Which country is AO Cacao chocolate from?
AO Cacao is a chocolate maker based in New Zealand.
What kind of chocolate maker is AO Cacao?
AO Cacao is classified as bean-to-bar on Chof: its chocolate is made from cacao beans, refined and conched in a workshop or a specialist chocolate factory rather than melted down from bought chocolate.
How many AO Cacao bars are listed on Chof?
Chof currently lists 6 chocolate bars from AO Cacao, with full tasting notes, cocoa percentages and ingredient details.
Has AO Cacao won any chocolate awards?
Yes. Chof lists 1 award result for 1 AO Cacao bar, from the International Chocolate Awards. The newest listed is from 2025: International Chocolate Awards Asia-Pacific Bronze 2025 for 94% Cacao Single Origin.
Which cocoa origins does AO Cacao use most?
AO Cacao works most often with cacao from Papua New Guinea (3 bars on Chof). AO Cacao also makes bars with cacao from Samoa, Solomon Islands and Taiwan.
Where can I buy AO Cacao chocolate?
AO Cacao sells directly through their website at https://aocacao.com. Specialty chocolate shops in Europe and beyond also carry their bars. To track your tastings and find more bars like AO Cacao, scan any of their bars in the Chof app.
Where can I learn more about AO Cacao?
Visit AO Cacao directly at https://aocacao.com, or browse every AO Cacao bar with origin and tasting details on this Chof maker page.
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