Baci Perugina Dark 70%
November 24, 2018
In 1922, Luisa Spagnoli created a hazelnut confection and covered it in dark chocolate. She called it “Cazzotto,” because the shape reminded her of a “fist.” But one of the founding partners, Giovanni Buitoni, wondered why a customer would want to buy something called a fist? She changed the name to Baci, meaning “kisses.”
Each foil wrapped chocolate came with a love note. According to the legend retold on their website, www.baciperugina.com/us/, Luisa and Giovanni were clandestine lovers who exchanged love messages hidden in the chocolates.
The extra dark Baci is comprised of an inner filling of hazelnut paste mixed with caramelized cocoa nibs (cocoa beans), a whole, toasted hazelnut resting on top, and the entire confection coated in 70% dark chocolate.
Tasting Baci Perugina Dark 70%
I especially like the crunchy nibs in the filling. Of course the whole hazelnut and the dark coating are also very nice. So, I guess I’m saying, it’s all good! The filling is the sweetest part of the candy but as a whole experience, it’s well balanced. There is no hint of bitterness. In fact, if you are not a huge fan of dark chocolate, I think you’ll still enjoy this.
One thing I noticed is that the filling was drier than I expected. The texture was not gritty, but it was a bit “chalkier” than I like. Sometimes this is a sign that the chocolate is past its prime. I don’t think this was the case because the hazelnut tasted fresh and not oxidized (stale). If it were oxidized, that could be a sign that the chocolate is old.
Plus, the temper of the coating did not show signs of bloom - the grayish, greasy coating that’s on the surface of some chocolates. Bloom is often an indication that chocolate has been sitting around too long.
However, without those other indicators, and since I’ve never had this particular Baci before, I’m left to wonder if this “filling” texture is normal?
After all, the term “filling” can describe a wide variety of textures. It could be as smooth and soft like a ganache, or a bit firmer like a nougat, or anywhere in between. I guess I’ll just have to get another 5 ounce bag and sample it again to be sure. Oh darn! 🙂
Other than the unexpected mouth-feel, I enjoyed the chocolates. They come in the perfect snacking size and go great with a cup of espresso!
As I am writing this, there is only one option on Amazon for the 70% Dark version. It is a 12-pack of 5 ounce bags. Take a look.
For a smaller quantity, try the original dark chocolate version (less than 70% cocoa). Here's a nice gift box of 28 pieces, and here's a 3-pack of 5 ounce bags. Any of these could make good gifts for chocolate lovers!
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