For UK consumers seeking the ultimate extra dark chocolate experience, a recent expert taste test has provided clear guidance, with Lindt's Excellence Robust Dark 85% Cocoa emerging as the standout choice. A panel of independent chocolate experts, including an award-winning chocolatier, chef, chocolate maker, and food consultant, blind-tasted three popular 85% cocoa bars from Lindt, Aldi, and Waitrose, scoring them on taste, aroma, appearance, and texture.
Lindt's offering secured the top spot with a score of 71%, impressing judges with its smooth, creamy texture and satisfying 'snap', indicating good tempering. Flavour notes were described as intense, with one expert detecting 'tropical fruit notes akin to mango' and another noting 'a hint of something a little like cloves'. Despite its 85% cocoa content, it was perceived as less bitter and slightly sweeter than expected. Priced at £3.50 for a 100g bar, or £3.50 per 100g, Lindt's Excellence Robust Dark is available at major supermarkets including Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, Tesco, and Waitrose.
Aldi's Moser Roth 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate came in second with a score of 49%. While praised for its 'nice-looking bar' and good thickness, experts found its texture less creamy and smooth. The flavour was described as bitter, earthy, and heavily roasted, with one expert suggesting the cocoa might have been alkalised due to its almost black colour. Alkalisation, or Dutch processing, reduces bitterness and acidity but can also alter flavour and nutritional profiles. This Fairtrade-certified bar costs £2.49 for 125g, equating to £1.99 per 100g, making it the most economical option. It is exclusively available in Aldi stores.
Bringing up the rear was the Waitrose No.1 Fairtrade Uganda Dark Chocolate 85% Cocoa, scoring 47%. Despite Waitrose's claims of deep cocoa richness with hints of nuts and spice, the expert panel found the flavour disappointing and 'one-dimensional'. Although its appearance was deemed pleasant, the lack of complexity in taste placed it last in the comparison. This bar is priced at £3 for 100g, or £3 per 100g.
The findings highlight that while premium brands may come with a higher price tag, they can deliver a superior taste experience for those seeking an occasional indulgence. However, for budget-conscious consumers, the Aldi option provides a more affordable entry into the extra dark chocolate market, albeit with a different flavour profile.