Martin Christy — The Art of Tasting Chocolate

Martin Christy is one of the pioneers of the modern fine chocolate movement. He is the founder of Seventy%, and co-founder of both the International Chocolate Awards and the International Institute of Chocolate and Cacao Tasting. For decades, Martin has championed a deeper understanding of fine chocolate — its origins, flavours, craftsmanship, and the cacao and people behind it — and today teaches the art of chocolate tasting through courses around the world. Martin and I go back many years, and I was fortunate to be one of the original judges for the International Chocolate Awards. In this episode of Like a Pearl, we talk about his journey into the world of fine chocolate, how our understanding of chocolate has evolved, and what it really means to taste rather than simply eat it. We also explore the extraordinary complexity of cacao, the relationship between origin and flavour, and the knowledge and attention that go into developing a palate. As with so many creative disciplines, learning to taste is partly about learning to slow down, pay attention, and notice what is already there. This conversation was recorded some time ago and has been waiting in the wings ever since. Listening to it again, I was struck by its evergreen quality, and I’m delighted to finally share it. Martin’s passion, curiosity, and dedication to understanding and communicating the nuances of chocolate make this a conversation as much about taste, craftsmanship and sensory experience as it is about chocolate itself. Learn more Martin Christy / Seventy%: https://www.seventypercent.com/ International Chocolate Awards: https://www.internationalchocolateawards.com/ International Institute of Chocolate and Cacao Tasting: https://www.chocolatetastinginstitute.org/ Like a Pearl: https://www.daphneroubini.ca/podcast About Like a Pearl Like a Pearl is hosted by Daphne Roubini, a jazz vocalist, songwriter, podcaster, and creative entrepreneur originally from London, England, now living in Vancouver, Canada. Through conversations with artists, musicians, cultural leaders, and other inspiring guests, Like a Pearl explores the experiences, insights, and pearls of wisdom that shape a creative life. Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, or creative—or simply someone looking to live your life more creatively—Like a Pearl offers conversations that inspire curiosity, creativity, dedication, and the motivation to follow your own creative path. I hope you enjoy the conversation and the pearls of wisdom shared along the way, and find inspiration for living your own life more creatively. Credits Host & Producer: Daphne Roubini Original Artwork: Rich Katynski Sound Engineering & Editing: Sheldon Zaharko Theme Music: Instrumental version of “There’s Always Tomorrow” by Daphne Roubini & Black Gardenia, from Whisky Scented Kisses on Cellar Live. If you’d like to hear the album, listen to Whisky Scented Kisses here