Lake Champlain Chocolate: 54% Dark Chocolate

When shall we meet again,
this summer, two thousand ten
maybe never, but we'll remember
the days before September

Here we are on the last unofficial day of summer - and thinking back to relaxed vacation days, Lake Champlain comes to mind. Their chocolates take on a similar personality - relaxed, unassuming and smooth. The 54% in particular is a one that is better known for being an accompaniment than the main course. It will not overpower anything around it, and its hint of sweetness can pair with just about anything, from the simple glass of milk even to an iced tea. Overall, the flavor takes a few moments to show, so enjoy as a great closer after lunch, or as a quick pick-me-up late in the afternoon.

At-a-glance
Type: Bar
Variety: Dark
Cacao: 54%

Lake Champlain makes some great chocolates take a look.

Scharffen Berger 62% SemiSweet

What's in a name?
Sometimes it speaks to tame
Alas we learn the other
half is undercover

I have always loved the Scharffen Berger take on chocolate.
Even their sweet chocolate holds strong and emits not just sweet, but also a smoky robust flavor.
I never, until now, tasted their 62%, semisweet, instead choosing for their 62% dark chocolate mocha.
I was surprised at the strength of this 62%; though labeled semisweet, it is certainly bold enough to satisy those looking for a strong cacao flavor.

Scharffen Berger is remarkably consistent, from first to last bite and across their line.

You can learn more here.
And taste for yourself here.

At-a-glance
Type: Bar
Variety: Dark/Semi-sweet
Cacao: 62%