Venezuela
Cacao Selection Felchlin

ONE OF THE WORLD’S FINEST CACAO VARIETIES

Venezuela is home to the Sur del Lago region in the Maracaibo lowlands, known for its long tradition of cacao cultivation and considered the origin of the cacao tree. Venezuelan cacao is regarded as among some of the best in the world. It flourishes in the nutrient-rich soils of the foothills of the Andes, in abundant, humid, and moisture heavy vegetation. This fine cacao grows among a wide variety of other plants at higher altitudes, to the south and east of Lake Maracaibo. Some farms are located on volcanic soils, which are exceedingly fertile. Thanks to strict controls and analyses, both with our local farming partners and in our own laboratory, we always ensure the highest quality and unique flavour.

MARACAIBO – HARBOUR CITY ON LAGO DE MARACAIBO

We named our Maracaibo couvertures after the historic port city, located at the northern end of lake Maracaibo. This inland sea is fed by rainwater from the surrounding Andes and it flows out into the Gulf of Venezuela.

The port city is not only of central economic importance to Venezuela, but also serves as a cultural hub, offering a fascinating blend of history, tradition, and modernity. Maracaibo has a long history that dates to colonial times. The Maracuchos, as the inhabitants of Maracaibo are called, take great pride in their city and cultural heritage. The fusion of Spanish and indigenous influences continues to shape the entire region to this day. After politically and economically challenging times, Venezuela is now moving toward a more positive future. Unemployment and poverty are on the decline and visits to the country, which are of great importance to Felchlin, are now possible once again.

Facts

  • PARTNERSHIP WITH

    Casa Franceschi

  • NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES OR FARMERS

    about 400 farmers

  • TYPE OF COMPANY

    Casa Franceschi, founded in 1830, is a highly integrated cacao sourcing firm, and works harmoniously with farmers across Latin America. They cultivate close relationships with their customers, providing tailormade, high-quality products that meet the needs of the world’s finest chocolatiers.

  • HOMEPAGE

    casafranceschi.com

  • COOPERATION SINCE

    2006

  • CACAO VARIETIES

    The basis is mainly Trinitario and Criollo cacao. Due to the recurring cross-breeding and evolution of cacao plants, it is difficult to determine the exact cacao variety. Our top priority is the flavour profile of the cacao.

FELCHLIN IN VENEZUELA

OUR PARTNER AND DIRECT COOPERATION ON SITE

Max Felchlin AG has been working with the Franceschi family since 2006. The family originates from Corsica and has been one of the principal stakeholders in the Venezuelan cacao market since the end of the 19th century. The Franceschis manage their own crops, control the quality of the cacao and ship it to Europe. In Venezuela, they have set up their own processing and competence centre with Hacienda San José. The fermentation and drying processes are accurately recorded and the sensory profiles of the cacao for our Maracaibo Couverture chocolates are regularly checked and calibrated in close collaboration with Felchlin.

FELCHLIN IN VENEZUELA

OUR PARTNER AND DIRECT COOPERATION ON SITE

Although cacao cultivation plays a minor economic role in Venezuela, it is the main source of income for many farmers. Thanks to partners such as Felchlin, who have actively maintained long-distance business relationships even in difficult times, Casa Franceschi has been able to set up Fundaçion San José. A foundation that invests in the region’s development together with other NGOs, by initiating or supporting social, cultural, sporting and professional training projects.

HEALTHCARE IN VENEZUELA

THE «SALUD SUR DEL LAGO» PROJECT

Due to the unstable political and economic situation in Venezuela, the healthcare system is suffering greatly. Families can barely afford healthcare and there is often no reliable healthcare system at all. Medical professionals, medicines and supplies are in short supply. Thanks to the initiative and support of Confiserie Sprüngli, we have launched the «Salud Sur del Lago» project.

HEALTHCARE IN VENEZUELA

THE «SALUD SUR DEL LAGO» PROJECT

In collaboration with our implementation partner Elucid and our supplier Casa Franceschi, we ensure the continuous supply of vital medicines and materials to healthcare providers. We provide cacao farming families with access to basic medical care and cover emergency costs for urgent medical interventions.

HEALTHCARE IN VENEZUELA

THE «SALUD SUR DEL LAGO» PROJECT

Thanks to anonymised data, we can transparently track the positive impact on local people. With this commitment, we are investing in two of the sustainable development goals defined by the UN: No. 1 «No poverty» and No. 3 «Good health and well-being».

Products

Felchlin Art. No. Product name
CO88 Maracaibo 88% dark chocolate couverture Rondo More info
CU08 Maracaibo Clasificado 65% dark chocolate couverture Rondo More info
CS29 Maracaibo Clasificado 65% râpée Dark chocolate couverture grated More info
CS58 Maracaibo Créeole 49% milk chocolate couverture Rondo More info
CS36 Maracaibo Criolait 38% milk chocolate couverture Rondo More info
CS34 Maracaibo Crème 33% milk chocolate couverture Rondo More info
TM77 Maracaibo Mousse Chocolate Mousse powder
CA29 Maracaibo Nibs Qroqant 2-3mm Cacaonibs caramelised
CR14 Maracaibo Chocolini 66%, dark chocolate couverture Rondo 0.18g

Note: Some products are not available in all markets. The right to make changes to the range is reserved. Liste non exhaustive.

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