For the discerning traveler seeking an immersive and exclusive experience in Puerto Rico, the Hacienda Cacaotera Terruño JS offers a unique journey into the world of fine chocolate. Nestled in the lush mountains of Naranjito, this family-owned cacao farm provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the intricate process of chocolate-making, from the cultivation of cacao to the creation of award-winning gourmet chocolate bars.

A Legacy of Excellence

Founded by Jorge and Sonia, Hacienda Terruño JS stands as the first cacao farm in Puerto Rico's mountainous region. Their vision was to establish a sustainable and high-quality cacao production that would not only serve the local community but also elevate Puerto Rican cacao on the global stage. Their dedication bore fruit when their chocolate earned a Silver Medal at the prestigious Academy of Chocolate Awards in 2023 in London, a testament to the exceptional quality of their products .

The "From Cocoa to Chocolate" Tour

The heart of the Hacienda's offerings is the "Bean to Chocolate" tour, a two-hour guided walking experience that delves deep into the world of cacao cultivation and chocolate production. This tour is great for everyone especially those who are physically active and have a passion for fine chocolate.

Immersive Learning Experience

Our journey began with a walk through the cacao groves, where we learned about the various types of cacao and the stages of cacao cultivation. Our guide, led by Jorge himself, shared insights into the history and terminology of fine-flavor cacao in Puerto Rico and what led him to start Hacienda Cacaotera Terruno JS. We also learned agro-ecological practices they employ on the farm, including grafting techniques and the importance of sustainable farming methods .

At the end of our tour, we met with Sonia and were introduced to the intricate process of chocolate-making. From the careful harvesting of cacao pods to the fermentation, drying, roasting, and tempering of the beans, each step is explained in detail. We were blown away! You can tell the passion and commitment Jorge and Sonia have for their land and their chocolate. We left with a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in creating high-quality chocolate and you will too when you visit.

Sensory Delights

Of course, hands down the highlight of the tour is when we finally got to sample Hacienda Terruño JS's artisanal chocolates. We got the chance to savor the rich, complex flavors of their chocolate starting with 65% dark to 100% dark, appreciating the nuances that distinguish fine chocolate from mass-produced varieties. Hershey who?

The combination of education and sensory indulgence makes this tour a memorable experience for us and would for any chocolate enthusiasts out there.

Sustainable Practices and Community Impact

Hacienda Terruño JS is committed to sustainable farming practices that respect the environment and promote biodiversity. The farm's dedication to eco-friendly methods ensures that the cacao produced is of the highest quality while minimizing ecological impact. Additionally, the farm serves as a model for aspiring young farmers interested in pursuing careers in sustainable agriculture and agritourism. When you see how much passion and expertise Jorge has and his willingness to teach you what you need to know why wouldn’t you start you’re own cacao farm?

Planning Your Visit

One thing to note before embarking on this exclusive chocolate adventure, reservations are required. The tour is priced at $35 USD per person (as of the time of this article April, 2025) which includes the guided walk, educational session, and chocolate tastings. Given the personalized nature of this experience, group sizes are limited, ensuring an intimate and engaging visit.

For those planning a trip to Puerto Rico, incorporating a visit to Hacienda Terruño JS offers a unique blend of education, adventure, and indulgence. It's an opportunity to connect with the island's rich agricultural heritage and support local artisans dedicated to award-wining excellence.

Whether you're a chocolate connoisseur, a lover of sustainable practices, or simply seeking a distinctive experience in Puerto Rico, the "From Cocoa to Chocolate" tour at Hacienda Cacaotera Terruño JS promises an unforgettable journey. I know I left with not only a deep appreciation of growing and cultivating cacao but also a desire to one day plant cacao seeds for my very own cacao farm. :)

The 2023 Academy of Chocolate Awards were held at Westminster Kingsway College in London, United Kingdom.This esteemed venue hosted the awards ceremony in the autumn of 2023, where over 1,400 entries from more than 50 countries were judged by a panel of leading chocolatiers, producers, journalists, bloggers, food writers, and other chocolate experts from across the industry.

The awards recognized excellence in various categories, including plain and flavoured chocolate bars made with bean-to-bar chocolates and couverture chocolates, filled chocolates, drinking chocolates, spreads, and packaging. The judging process involved multiple independent evaluations by judges, leading to the determination of gold, silver, and bronze winners in each category.

The 2023 ceremony was a significant event in the fine chocolate industry, celebrating the craftsmanship and innovation of chocolate producers worldwide. The Academy of Chocolate Awards continue to serve as a benchmark for quality and excellence in the chocolate industry.

Discovering the Art of Chocolate at Hacienda Cacaotera Terruño JS