Olorin's Page

Hi! I'm on a quest that's very simply defined-- I want to experience fine dark chocolate and decide which ones I like the most.

I'll try both unflavored and flavored depending on the mood I'm in, but I stick to bars because I just don't have the time to venture into the realm of truffles. I've developed a rating system that works for me, and I keep my notes in a database, so that I can keep track of it all and compare the chocolates that I taste. I rate "on the curve" so if I taste something at either end of the scale-- either really good, or really bad-- then I have to adjust my ratings. For example, after I tasted Amedei I had to push everything else down the scale.

I love to learn and I feel like I've discovered another whole world that I never even knew existed-- the realm of fine chocolate appreciation. I'm new to this world, so I'm trying to learn all I can. It's like I've gotten off a plane and landed in another country. I've sure enjoyed the exploration so far, even if there have been a few wrong turns and dark alleys. It's been like walking down new streets into new buildings with doors that open into new vistas. Some I'd sure love to go back to, and some I'll avoid the second time. With some there's also the wistfulness of knowing that way leads onto way and I may never get back there again.

It's a joy to meet fellow travelers on this journey who share the same passion. Several of you have already been very helpful guides, and I look forward to more joy of discovery!