Venezuelan Cacao Wins Four Golds in Bordeaux

Why this is here: Mayoy Cacao earned two gold medals for its Chuao 100% Cacao and Canoabo 85% Cacao bars, highlighting the distinct flavor profiles developed in the mountainous and coastal regions of Venezuela.

In Bordeaux, France, Mayoy Cacao—a Venezuelan-founded chocolate company based in the United Kingdom—received four gold medals at the 2026 British Craft Chocolate Awards. The company earned two golds for its chocolate bars and two more as an elite “bean to bar” chocolate maker. Their winning bars, Canoabo 85% Cacao and Chuao 100% Cacao, come from specific regions in Venezuela and represent centuries of cultivation.

The cacao from Chuao, a coastal town in Aragua state, has maintained its genetic purity for over 400 years and holds Venezuela’s first Denomination of Origin certification since 2000. Hacienda de Chuao, established in 1660, is also recognized as Venezuela’s oldest continually operating company. Mayoy Cacao previously won a bronze and silver medal at the 2025 competition.

The company controls its entire production process, from bean to bar, and prioritizes traceability. These awards qualify Mayoy Cacao for the International Chocolate Awards World Final later in 2026. Industry leaders note the growing presence of women in Venezuela’s export-oriented artisanal chocolate sector, and emphasize the need for greater global visibility.