On November 15th, the sale of one of the most valuable and rarest cacao varieties in the world begins – Arhuaco cacao. With an annual harvest volume of only 16 tons, Arhuaco cacao is among the most precious in the world. Its unique flavor notes and the story behind its cultivation make it a truly special experience for gourmets and lovers of sustainable products.

Arhuaco cacao is more than just a treat – it represents the cultural and spiritual reconstruction of a people who have returned to their homeland after centuries of alienation.

This special cacao variety is a symbol of a new beginning. Thanks to the collaboration with Kakao Mischa and their partner Original Beans, the Arhuaco now have the opportunity to protect their cultural heritage and their nature.

Cacao as a Symbol of a New Beginning

This extraordinary cacao comes from the indigenous, white-clad Arhuaco people of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia. It symbolizes the rediscovery of traditional, indigenous roots and the return of the Arhuaco to their land, which was taken from them by settlers over 400 years ago. They only regained access to their land about 15 years ago, and with it the possibility to revive their deeply rooted spirituality and their understanding of harmony between the polarities—the feminine and the masculine.

The Arhuaco cacao variety, including the rare and valuable La Lengüeta bean, is characterized by exceptionally sweet and harmonious notes, with aromas of lemongrass, sesame, and licorice. The cacao beans are harvested traditionally by the tribe. Through their natural methods of fermenting and drying, the authentic aromas and high quality of the cacao are preserved. The beans are then shipped to Germany, where they are lovingly processed from bean to cacao mass at the Kakao Mischa factory and poured into artistic molds.

Kakao Mischa with the Arhuaco

Mischa Levit, the founder of Kakao Mischa, visits every cacao plantation personally before adding the cacao beans and cacao mass to his range. During his last visit to the Sierra Nevada, the mountain range in northern Colombia, he met Rochel, one of the tribal elders of the Arhuaco.

“This experience impressed me deeply and strengthened the connection to these people. I feel honored that through this cacao, we are allowed to be part of their history and their new beginning. Arhuaco cacao is a symbol of the rebirth of their identity and their spiritual connection to their land. It is an incredibly powerful cacao, which I only drink on special occasions myself. By purchasing this cacao, we are not only supporting their community but also the preservation of their culture and nature.”

The partnership with Kakao Mischa enables the Arhuaco to sell their cacao beans directly at fair prices, which strengthens their autonomy and improves their quality of life. As part of the project, genetically valuable cacao varieties are being bred in nurseries. Direct trade has led to an increase in the tribe's income by 58%, giving the Arhuaco the opportunity to invest in the future of their children and the preservation of their environment.

About Kakao Mischa

Kakao Mischa stands for high-quality (ceremonial) cacao in its most natural form, produced with respect for nature and the people who cultivate it. Kakao Mischa works closely with indigenous communities, such as the Arhuaco, to provide access to unique cacao varieties cultivated using traditional, environmentally friendly methods. Kakao Mischa's products represent mindfulness, enjoyment, and social responsibility.

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Press kit including images for download

Press Contact: Melmo Sixt (melmo@kakaomischa.de)