Earning my Level 2 Certificate as a Chocolate Sommelier brought clarity: the journey of Kimaya Chocolates had only just begun.
For Kimaya, excellence is not optional. The pursuit of Level 3 reflects a deeper commitment — to move beyond comfort, question every assumption, and honor cacao at its highest expression. It is about creating chocolates that are not simply enjoyed but understood — pieces that unfold slowly and leave a lasting impression.
As my immersion in chocolate deepened, a quiet question emerged: Where does Kimaya Chocolates stand in the world of fine cacao? Seeking perspective rather than validation, I entered the 4th National Colombian Origin Chocolate Competition organized by the International Chocolate Awards.
One creation represented us — Golden Flare, a mango and chili bombón. Inspired by the mango pickle of my Indian childhood, this flavor memory was reimagined through a mango–chili ganache, enrobed in 70% single-origin chocolate from Meta, Colombia. It was a conversation between two cultures, captured in a single bite.
Each bombón was crafted by hand with love, carefully tempered, boxed, and tied together with a purple ribbon. I told myself I had no expectations — yet anticipation lingered.
Time passed. Life moved forward. My family arrived to Bogota, from India, Canada, and London to celebrate our daughter Esha’s quinceañera, and the competition faded into the background.
Then came a quiet moment of affirmation. Judges’ feedback revealed a score of 82.10 — an exceptional result for a first-time entry. Days later, an unexpected email confirmed what mattered most: Golden Flare had been selected as a Grand Jury Finalist by the International Chocolate Awards.
For Kimaya Chocolates, this recognition is a milestone — not a destination. It affirms that intention, discipline, and cultural dialogue have a place in the world of fine chocolate.
The journey continues — with clarity, courage, and cacao at its center.
¡Two Cultures. One Chocolate!
Written by-
Rochelle Ann Miranda
Kimaya Chocolates