A Journey Through Bahia’s Cacao Heartland.

In the world of luxury, provenance is everything. True connoisseurs don’t just indulge in fine chocolate; they savour the story behind it the terroir, the tradition, and the people who bring it to life. For Nicholas and Tracy, the founders of Bartlett de Choc, this philosophy led them deep into the lush, untamed beauty of Bahia, Brazil, on a quest that would redefine their understanding of cacao. 

What began as a search for the perfect farm to call their own quickly evolved into something far greater—an education in agroforestry, regenerative farming, and the rich cultural tapestry of Bahia’s cacao-growing communities. They arrived as seekers of land and left as students of a time-honoured craft, forever changed by the people and landscapes they encountered.

A Journey into the Jungle
Their adventure began in the remote cacao belt of South Bahia, a region where ancient forests breathe life into some of the world’s finest cacao. Here, in the dappled shade of towering trees, cacao thrives not in regimented plantations, but as part of a harmonious ecosystem where biodiversity is king. 
Guided by Cassiano, a Brazilian legal expert and an old friend of Nicholas, they navigated the complexities of land ownership, all while rekindling friendships and forging new ones. Cassiano had missed their wedding but was now set to become an integral part of their journey and meeting Tracy for the first time.

As they explored, Nicholas and Tracy met local farmers whose families had cultivated cacao for generations. These stewards of the land held an intimate knowledge of the forest, passed down like an heirloom—an understanding of how soil health, native flora, and careful tree selection create resilient, disease-resistant cacao. Their expertise wasn’t just agricultural; it was cultural, woven into the fabric of their daily lives.

Lessons in Regeneration
One of their most profound encounters was with a renowned farm owner and Brazilian chocolate maker, whose land had once suffered the devastating effects of witches’ broom disease, a fungal blight that decimated Bahia’s cacao industry in the 1990s. Instead of abandoning his dream, he restored his farm through regenerative agriculture, planting shade trees, fostering biodiversity, and cultivating resilient cacao varieties.

This philosophy of working with nature rather than against it resonated deeply with Nicholas and Tracy. They witnessed firsthand how agroforestry creates a self-sustaining ecosystem, where cacao trees flourish alongside fruit trees, medicinal plants, and towering hardwoods, all of which enrich the soil and protect against pests and disease.

Life, Laughter, and a Near Miss with a Bull
Their days were filled with immersive learning, but Bahia had other gifts to offer. They swam in tropical rivers and hidden waterfalls, surfed at sun-drenched beaches, and immersed themselves in the region’s vibrant culture.

Not all adventures were serene, though. One afternoon, Tracy found herself in an unexpected standoff with a bull. An encounter that might have ended poorly had it not been for the swift intervention of a local farmer, who pulled her to safety just in time. It was a reminder that in this wild paradise, nature is both breathtaking and unpredictable. 
More than the land itself, it was the people of Bahia who left the greatest impression. Warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to their craft, they shared their knowledge generously. Yet, despite their expertise, many local farmers faced economic challenges, struggling to compete in a market that often undervalued their labor.

 

A New Vision for the Future
As their journey unfolded, Nicholas and Tracy came to a realisation: owning a farm was neither feasible nor necessary. Instead, they saw a more meaningful path one that would honour the traditions of Bahia’s cacao farmers while creating sustainable opportunities for all involved.
Rather than buying land, they would perhaps focus on direct trade partnerships, working hand-in-hand with local growers to source exceptional cacao at fair prices. By doing so, they could bring the world a chocolate that wasn’t just luxurious in taste but also in its impact one that uplifted communities, preserved ecosystems, and celebrated the artistry of its makers.

They returned home not with deeds or contracts, but with something far more valuable: knowledge, friendships, and a vision for a chocolate brand that tells a richer story one that includes heritage, community, and a true connection to the land.
For those who understand luxury as an experience, not just a product, their journey is a reminder that the finest things in life aren’t merely consumed; they are cultivated with care, integrity, and a deep respect for the origins that make them truly extraordinary.

This is not just chocolate.

This is a journey in every bite.