Spicy
Anise
licorice, fennel, star anise
Anise notes in chocolate are sweet, aromatic, and polarizing, strongly reminiscent of licorice, absinthe, or fennel seed. This is a distinctive and unusual note that marks certain rare cacao varieties and origins.
What Causes It
Anethole (the primary compound in anise, fennel, and star anise) occasionally appears in cacao as a terroir expression. Cacao grown in agroforestry with anise-family plants can absorb these aromatics. It can also arise from certain unusual fermentation microbes.
Where to Find It
Rare: occasionally found in some South American origins and certain heirloom varieties.