Exploring Grenada’s Rich Chocolate Heritage with Aaron Sylvester of Tri Island Chocolate

Grenada is often referred to as the "Spice Isle" for its abundant nutmeg and spice exports. But the island is also making waves in the world of fine chocolate, thanks to passionate chocolatiers like Aaron Sylvester of Tri Island Chocolate . Aaron’s journey from England back to his ancestral homeland is as rich and complex as the chocolate he creates. His story is one of innovation, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to showcasing the exceptional bounty of Grenada.

A Journey Back to Roots and Cocoa

Aaron’s chocolate-making journey began in 2016, inspired by Grenada’s renowned chocolate legacy and the global success of brands like the Grenada Chocolate Company. Leaving behind life in England, he returned to the island of his parents’ birth, driven to reconnect with his heritage. By 2017, he was experimenting with chocolate-making, and in 2018, Tri Island Chocolate made its debut at the Grenada Chocolate Festival.

What sets Tri Island Chocolate apart is its focus on experiential chocolate-making. From the outset, Aaron introduced interactive activities, allowing visitors to craft personalized chocolate bars. When the pandemic struck, he pivoted creatively, hosting virtual chocolate-making classes for stranded cruisers and delivering chocolates to their boats. This ingenuity has shaped Tri Island into more than just a brand—it’s an experience that immerses locals and visitors alike in Grenada’s rich chocolate culture.

Innovating with Grenada’s Natural Bounty

Grenada’s fertile soil and tropical climate yield a treasure trove of ingredients that inspire Aaron’s creations. At Tri Island Chocolate, innovation is key. From classic chocolate bars to bonbons and truffles, Aaron’s team experiments with local flavors like soursop, Tonka bean, and even plantain. Recent experiments with sapodilla—a naturally sweet fruit—highlight the brand’s commitment to minimizing sugar and maximizing the authentic taste of Grenada’s produce.

Celebrating Grenadian Culture Through Design

Tri Island Chocolate’s packaging is a love letter to the island’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. Embracing a “Contemporary Caribbean” aesthetic, the design celebrates Grenada’s rich flora and fauna while positioning the island as a producer of world-class cocoa and spices. Each wrapper tells a story, blending modernity with authenticity, and even includes a guide to pronouncing "Grenada." This thoughtful approach distinguishes Tri Island Chocolate from other local brands, creating a visual and sensory connection to the island.

Preserving Tradition in Craftsmanship

At the heart of Tri Island Chocolate’s success is a commitment to tradition and precision. From the seven-day fermentation process to the meticulous two-day grind, every step reflects Grenada’s heritage and dedication to quality. The result is a smooth, flavorful chocolate that honors the island’s legacy while meeting modern expectations for excellence.

Pairing Chocolate with Fine Flavors

For chocolate connoisseurs, Aaron recommends pairing Tri Island Chocolate’s 80% dark chocolate—crafted from cocoa beans sourced at Mount Edgecombe Estate—with a bold Shiraz or Merlot. The interplay of rich cocoa and robust wine creates a tasting experience that reflects the depth and complexity of Grenada’s chocolate.

A Vision for Grenada’s Chocolate Future

Aaron’s mission goes beyond crafting exceptional chocolate. He envisions a Grenada where locals and visitors have widespread access to the island’s diverse chocolate offerings, fostering appreciation for true dark chocolate. Education plays a key role, especially for young people who often grow up equating chocolate with sugary confections. By introducing them to the complexities of real chocolate, Aaron hopes to reshape perceptions and cultivate a deeper appreciation for Grenada’s cocoa heritage.

Sustainability is also a cornerstone of Aaron’s vision. He dreams of a solar-powered factory that operates 24/7, fully off the grid, and exemplifies the harmony between innovation and environmental stewardship.

Grenada: A Chocolate Lover’s Paradise

Through Tri Island Chocolate, Aaron Sylvester has cemented Grenada’s reputation as a destination for fine chocolate. From the bean to the bar, his dedication to quality, culture, and sustainability highlights the island’s unique contributions to the world of chocolate. Whether savoring a handcrafted bar or exploring the immersive chocolate-making experiences, one thing is clear: Grenada’s chocolate heritage is as rich and flavorful as the treats it produces.

a group of chocolates next to each other

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