The Spirit of the Valley Returns: Honouring Cacao's Ancestral Roots
We're thrilled to announce that our beloved "Spirit of the Valley" ceremonial cacao is back in stock! This isn't just any cacao; it's a testament to ancient traditions, a deep connection to the earth, and a potent plant ally for our spiritual journeys. To truly appreciate the "Spirit of the Valley," we would like to share insights from those deeply connected to this sacred plant: the dedicated farmers who nurture it, and my own experiences on a trip to Peru.
The Story of Cacao: From Ancient Roots to Modern Challenges
The journey of cacao from ancient Amazonian forests to our modern cups is a fascinating one, marked by both natural evolution and human intervention. From its earliest forms, cacao's genetic makeup has been incredibly diverse, with distinct clusters found across the Amazon. These native trees, often referred to as 'Criollo' varieties, were nurtured by indigenous peoples for generations. Cacao's natural ability to self-pollinate or cross-pollinate with various genetic variants means that natural mutations and new forms have always been an integral part of its evolution.
However, the modern era has introduced a new dynamic: the purposeful development of hybrid cacao species designed for increased resistance to disease and higher yields. Take, for instance, the CNN-51 variety, which gained widespread popularity after the devastating El Niño phenomenon in the 1970s. This hybrid is highly productive, resilient to fungal disease, and can grow in full sun, offering a yield four times greater than fine-flavour and traditionally grown cacao varieties.
While beneficial for commercial farmers needing high volumes, this focus on yield often comes at a significant cost to flavour. Many describe CNN-51 as lacking the nuanced taste of traditional cacao, sometimes even as "acidic dirt." The widespread adoption of such hybrids raises a critical concern: the potential erosion of cacao's genetic diversity. Losing these diverse genetic pools leaves traditional farmers vulnerable to future environmental challenges and diminishes the rich heritage of cacao.
A Voice from the Land: Demetrio on Honouring Cacao's Spirit
To truly understand the heart of heirloom cacao, we must listen to the voices of those who cultivate it. I was incredibly grateful when one of my cacaoista students, Louise Boyer from ‘The Way of The Hummingbird’ connected with Demetrio, the cacao farmer in Peru who grows our beloved Spirit of the Valley cacao. Demetrio shares his insights on what makes his cacao so special and the challenges facing traditional practices. His words resonate deeply with the spirit of "Spirit of the Valley."
Demetrio explains that his farm is more than just a place of cultivation; it's "an interpretation centre for the origin of cacao." Here, visitors are immersed in the entire journey of cacao, from harvest to transformation, learning its "spiritual essence" and recognising that "chocolate is not a candy, it is a superfood of the Gods." For Demetrio, farming cacao is inherently ceremonial:
"When you are a serious cacao farmer, all the work is ceremonial and you are connected with the natural cacao forest, you enter it, that is the connection of the one. We feel. That's what's special."
His cacao forest, planted by his ancestors 96 years ago, holds a deep reverence. As a second-generation guardian, Demetrio speaks of the challenges they face: "It's very difficult, people don't understand, and what with climate change it is affecting us, plus people's ignorance, often offends this wonderful work, this ancestral work."
When asked about the threat of new disease-resistant varieties, Demetrio offers a nuanced perspective: "Sure today there are many varieties. Clones, hybrids, and others. In my opinion they are not bad, there is no bad, just that we have to sort ourselves out." His crucial point is that "Farms with these clones should be registered, georeferenced and not be mixed with our Origins. This is not being worked on yet. If nothing is done, then yes this will be a threat and there will be a genetic degradation, it is worrying."
Demetrio's plea for greater regulation and separation of hybrid varieties from heirloom strains is a powerful call to action. He emphasises the urgent need to "train, recover forests, and value this wonderful tree." His unwavering commitment to preserving the integrity of heirloom cacao is a testament to the profound connection between culture, land, and this sacred plant.
My Journey to Peru: The Taste of Authenticity
Demetrio's words deeply resonated with my own experiences during a trip to Peru 2 years ago. As Plant Spirit Medicine Woman, my life’s focus is always to connect with the essence of these plant allies. I witnessed firsthand the concerns that traditional farmers face.
On one particular farm, I observed both an original Chuncho variety and CNN-51 growing side-by-side. My heart sank a little to see both varieties sprayed with fungicide. What truly struck me was the stark difference in taste when we sampled the fresh pulp from each pod. The Chuncho was incredibly delicious – a shocking contrast to the CNN-51. Later, tasting a blend of both Chuncho and CNN-51 from this farm, I found it weak in flavour and somewhat lacking in spirit too, compared to the pure Chuncho.
It's clear that governments are encouraging the cultivation of CNN-51 for a more abundant cacao source. While this might address commercial needs, my personal conviction, and what I've heard from other Peruvians, is that heirloom varieties simply taste and feel better in every way. The truth, as seen by the farmers who care for and nurture this wonderful plant medicine in the same way their ancestors have for generations, is that preserving these traditions is key to growing ceremonial cacao that is a spiritual medicine as well as a delicious superfood.
A Collective Call to Action
The return of "Spirit of the Valley" is more than just restocking a product; it's an opportunity to actively participate in preserving the profound legacy of ceremonial cacao.
The choice to cultivate ceremonial grade cacao, untainted by hybridisation, must remain with farmers like Demetrio. By supporting authentic growers, we empower them to continue their traditions, protect genetic diversity, and ensure that the "Spirit of the Valley" continues to nourish and uplift us for generations to come.
Thank you for being part of this vital collective. Your support for "Spirit of the Valley" directly contributes to the preservation of true cacao medicine.
