Makers Series 1: SOMA Chocolatemaker

The Slow Melt: A podcast about chocolate

There are so many incredible makers who are part of the emerging craft chocolate movement and bigger markets, we decided to create a series highlighting them. Our Makers Series will introduce you to chocolate makers from all over the world, crafting chocolate at origin and abroad. Join us for interactive chocolate tastings guided by each maker. Hear the stories of origins and inspiration from the very people who created the chocolate.

SOMA Chocolatemaker was founded in 2003 by David Castellan and Cynthia Leung and is based in Toronto, Canada. The company has since grown to two stores, a small chocolate factory and a network of wholesalers. SOMA says it is “propelled by the love and curiosity of all things chocolate” as the company continues to seek out great cacao and explore more ingredients. In this episode, we’ll hear about David’s start as a pastry chef back before people spoke about chocolate origins, Cynthia’s ever-creative forays into flavor—both successful and not—and the difference between a chocolate maker and a chocolatier.

Please join us in tasting the Porcelana 70% bar. Learn more at theslowmelt.com. For more information on SOMA, head to their website (www.somachocolate.com), and use code “slowmelt” for a 10% discount on the Porcelana 70% bar from now until October 15, 2017.

You can also purchase a bar bundle featuring all nine bars for the entire Makers Series at Chocolopolis.com (use code “slowmelt” for a 15% discount) and subscribe to BeanBarYou.com.au (in Australia) and receive most of the bars in a specialty subscription box.

This episode is brought to you with the kind support of these sponsors: - Cacao Cucina: Reliable and rugged chocolate-making machinery built in the USA. Use code "SlowMelt10" at cacaocucina.com/contact-us for a 10% discount through September 1. - Chocolate Alchemy: Supplier of the largest selection of fine flavor cocoa beans, chocolate-making equipment and volumes of free chocolate-making information. Use code "slowmelt" at chocolatealchemy.com to receive 10% off any retail cocoa beans. - Rottar Grinders: Chocolate grinders designed and built by a chocolate maker in the USA. Learn more at www.rottar.com. - Blue Apron: $30 off your first order with free shipping at blueapron.com/chocolate.

Soundtrack: "Soldier" by The Slackers. Hear more at theslackers.com.