SEE Observe the chocolate's sheen. A clean, shiny bar indicates a well-tempered chocolate. Dark chocolate reveals a naturally higher shine.

SMELL Your nose is critical to tasting chocolate, which can exhibit over 600 natural aromas. Cupping the chocolate in your hands can capture and concentrate the aromas.

SNAP Break off a piece of chocolate and listen to the snap. Chocolate with a higher cacao percentage generally has more snap.

SAVOR Place the chocolate on your tongue. Allow the chocolate to melt naturally.
As you swirl it across your tongue, consider the progression of flavors, the balance
of sweetness, the texture and the length of the finish.