Richart La Tablette Au Cacao Pure Origine Cote D'Ivorie 73%

Smooth taste, some slight initial bitterness that fades into pure chocolate flavor. Faint tones of strawberry were noticed. 8

I purchased this bar at a Richart boutique -- no other word can describe the store. Elegantly presented chocolates that look very expensive. In this case, looks aren't deceiving, though the bars are about average price for this class of chocolate, about $10.

Richart is located a few doors uphill from the Tuescher store on Sutter Street, right off Union Square. They have locations in New York, Boston and San Juan. You'll find a picture of the San Francisco store at: http://www.richart-chocolates.com/b2c/chocolate/boutiques/4

Teuscher Chocolate 77

Faint flavor of port wine. None of the fruit taste that was noticed in the 66%. Clean chocolate flavor from start to finish. Some residue of chalkiness at the end, very minor. 7

Isis Luxury Belgian Extra Dark Chocolate 85% Cocoa

As expected for high-cocoa chocolates, this one has heavy chocolate impact, with a lasting aftertaste. Significant bitterness and chalkiness. No identifiable tastes: just chocolate. 6

Scharffen Berger 62% Semisweet Pure Dark Chocolate

Some bitterness. Edgy. Heavy chocolate flavor. 6

September 18, 2007: on later consideration and tasting, I'm revising this initial assessment. I no longer am tasting the bitterness. Yes, there's strong chocolate flavor, but not overpowering, and it is laced with side tones. Vanilla? Maybe. New rating: 7

Teuscher Chocolate 66

Initial taste of fruit, followed by straight chocolate. Clean finish. 8


Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland are sold in Teuscher stores. The focus of the store appears to be on truffles and other confections, but it has a nice range of bar chocolates, both plain and mixed with nuts and such.

This is the store where I purchased this bar: http://www.teuschersf.com/