From the legendary area of Soconusco (Xoconochco), home to the Mokaya (“People of the Corn” ironically), among the original cultivators of cacáo (1800-1400 BC; pre-dating the Olmecs by centuries), & where later contending powers waged wars to control the territory because it was revered as the source of the finest quality cacáo – notably pure Criollos. The Mexìcâs (Aztecs) made it the crown-jewel of their empire, despite its southwest location well outside their own central territory up north (which was both arid & elevated, two factors making it difficult to grow cacáo themselves, leaving them high & dry). Premium ancient groves have virtually vanished but rumors circulate of high-performing old Criollo growing as ornamentals in the backyards around Xoconochco.

This bar starts out a classic throwback, with heirloom traces, heightening expectations that, alas, devolve into later introductions of hybrids & imports (the obvious ‘Matina’ strain from Costa Rica) which influence the balance of the length.

Still, a good bar with a fleeting memory built-in of how-it-might’ve-been... plus a lasting reminder that ‘never again’ in this situation is the same as forever.