Peru Pure Nacional, renowned for its intricate fruit and floral flavours, once reigned supreme in the global fine chocolate market. However, in 1916, a devastating disease struck the Pure Nacional population in Ecuador, resulting in the destruction of 95% of the trees within three years. This catastrophe led many to believe that the prized cocoa was lost forever.

It wasn't until later, when Dan Pearson and Brian Horsely embarked on a quest, that a glimmer of hope emerged. Their exploration took them to the remote Marañón Canyon, a horseshoe-shaped gorge surrounded by towering walls. Within this isolated enclave, they discovered cacao trees thriving in a unique microclimate, situated at an altitude ranging between 1,000 to 1,250 meters.

Among the small farmers in the Marañón Canyon, the mother tree of all Pure Nacional clones was found on Don Fortunato's farm. The sample labeled as No. 4 was submitted to the Heirloom Cacao Preservation Initiative, ultimately identified as Pure Nacional. This discovery marked a significant breakthrough in the quest to resurrect the rare beans.

Thought to be extinct, the beans from Marañón resurfaced in 2007 on small, isolated farms within the remote canyon. These cacao beans, known as Peruvian Porcelano or Pure White Nacional, possess a unique characteristic. Approximately 40% of the beans found inside the pods exhibit a white coloration, setting them apart from other varieties.

The revival of the Peruvian Pure Nacional represents a triumph against adversity and the tireless efforts of dedicated individuals to preserve and rejuvenate this exquisite cocoa strain. Its rediscovery has reignited interest among chocolatiers and connoisseurs, allowing the world to once again savour the complex and enchanting flavours that were once thought to be lost forever.