95% Wicked Dark Chocolate: Taza's Boldest Bar Reviewed

If you're a dark chocolate devotee, you've probably wondered how far you can push the percentage. Taza's 95% Wicked Dark bar is their boldest offering, a stone-ground bar that doesn't shy away from intensity. In this review, we'll break down its flavor, texture, and who it's really for.

Taza is known for its stone-ground, organic chocolate, and the 95% Wicked Dark is a testament to their commitment to pure, unrefined ingredients. With only two ingredients – organic cacao beans and organic cane sugar – it's a minimalist bar that lets the cacao shine.

First Impressions: Unapologetically Intense

The moment you unwrap the 95% Wicked Dark, you're hit with an earthy, almost smoky aroma. The bar has a rustic, slightly crumbly texture typical of stone-ground chocolate, with a matte finish that hints at its high cacao content. It's not a bar for the faint-hearted – the first bite delivers a powerful punch of bitterness that slowly gives way to subtle fruity and nutty notes.

As you let it melt on your tongue, you'll notice a distinct lack of sweetness. The 5% sugar is just enough to round out the edges without masking the cacao's complexity. For those used to sweeter chocolate, this might be jarring, but for purists, it's a revelation. The texture is slightly gritty, which some may find rustic and authentic, while others might prefer a smoother mouthfeel.

• Tasting tip: Pair with a bold espresso or a full-bodied red wine to complement its intensity.

Flavor Profile: Beyond Bitterness

Beneath the initial bitterness, the 95% Wicked Dark reveals a surprising depth. There are notes of dried cherry, roasted coffee, and even a hint of tobacco. The cacao used is of high quality, and the stone-grinding process preserves its natural character. As the bar warms in your mouth, you might detect a slight citrus zest that brightens the overall experience.

Compared to other high-percentage bars, Taza's 95% is notably bold but not harsh. It lacks the astringency that some ultra-dark chocolates have, making it more approachable than its number suggests. However, it's still an acquired taste – if you're new to high-percentage chocolate, you might want to start with something like the 87% Seriously Dark before diving into this one.

Versatility in the Kitchen: Baking and Beyond

While the 95% Wicked Dark is a bold choice for eating out of hand, it also shines in baking. Its intense flavor can stand up to rich desserts like flourless chocolate cake or brownies, where its bitterness balances sweetness. You can also chop it into chunks for cookies, or melt it into a ganache for a sophisticated tart.

For those who prefer a bit of texture, consider the 95% Wicked Dark with Almonds, which adds a satisfying crunch to the intense chocolate. If you're looking to bake with a high-percentage chocolate, the 100% Baking Chocolate 3kg Bag offers a similar intensity in a convenient format for larger projects.

Who Should Buy This Bar?

The 95% Wicked Dark is not for everyone. If you're a fan of milk chocolate or even semi-sweet, this bar will likely be too intense. It's designed for the dark chocolate aficionado who appreciates the pure, unadulterated flavor of cacao. If you're looking to explore the upper echelons of chocolate percentages, this is a great starting point.

It also makes a thoughtful gift for the chocolate lover who thinks they've tried it all. Pair it with a selection of other Taza bars, like the Oat Milk Chocolate Bar - Fruit & Nut Crunch for a contrast, or the Boldest Dark Gift Box for a curated experience.

The 95% Wicked Dark is Taza's boldest bar, offering an intense, complex flavor that will please true dark chocolate enthusiasts. While it may not be for everyone, its quality and depth make it a standout in the high-percentage category. Whether you enjoy it on its own or use it in baking, this bar is a testament to the beauty of minimal, stone-ground chocolate.