Company Overview

Cultivating Excellence. Nurturing Terroir.

Terroir Cocoa is a vertically integrated, family-owned agricultural enterprise dedicated to the sustainable cultivation of premium fine-flavor cacao. For over three decades, we have bridged traditional farming wisdom with modern agronomy to produce some of the world’s most distinguished chocolate ingredients.

1987

Year Founded

200+

Acres Under Cultivation

100%

Vertically Integrated

3

Global Growing Regions

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Rooted in Heritage, Growing Toward Tomorrow

Terroir Cocoa began as a modest family plot in Ecuador’s Napo Valley. What started as a passion for preserving heirloom cacao varieties has grown into a respected agricultural enterprise spanning multiple continents.

We oversee every stage of the supply chainβ€”from seed selection and soil management to fermentation, drying, and initial processing. This vertical integration ensures unparalleled quality control and allows us to pass savings directly to farming communities.

Our mission is simple: cultivate exceptional cacao while regenerating the ecosystems and livelihoods that make it possible.

Guiding Principles

Every decision we make is anchored in these core values.

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Environmental Stewardship

We farm in harmony with nature, prioritizing soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation. Our practices are regenerative by design.

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Equitable Partnerships

We believe prosperity should be shared. Our farmers receive living wages, comprehensive training, and long-term security.

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Agronomic Excellence

We combine generational knowledge with scientific precision to optimize yield, disease resistance, and flavor development.

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Radical Transparency

From soil composition to fermentation timelines, we document and share every step of our process with our partners and consumers.

Milestones & Growth

A timeline of dedication, innovation, and expansion.

1987

Foundation in Napo Valley

The Delacroix family plants the first 50 heirloom cacao trees, establishing a commitment to fine-flavor cultivation.

1998

First International Export

Terroir Cocoa begins supplying boutique chocolatiers in Europe and North America, gaining recognition for complex flavor profiles.

2006

Organic & Fair Trade Certification

Full estate certification achieved. Implementation of living wage standards across all farming operations.

2014

Vertical Integration Complete

On-site fermentation and drying facilities launched, ensuring complete control over post-harvest processing.

2021

Global Expansion

Strategic partnerships established in Peru and Ghana to cultivate region-specific microclimates and varietals.

2024

Next Generation Leadership

Transition to third-generation management with a renewed focus on regenerative agriculture and climate resilience.

The Team Behind Terroir

Experienced professionals and passionate cultivators driving our mission forward.

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Elias Delacroix

Founder & Board Chair

Third-generation cacao farmer with 40+ years of experience in agricultural management and heritage crop preservation.

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Clara Delacroix-Vance

Chief Executive Officer

MBA from Harvard, leads strategic operations, sustainability initiatives, and global market expansion.

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Dr. Mateo Reyes

Head of Agronomy

PhD in Tropical Botany, oversees crop science, soil health programs, and climate adaptation research.

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Amara Osei

Director of Sustainability

Leads carbon neutrality programs, community development, and ethical supply chain verification.

Sustainability & Impact

Measurable goals. Transparent reporting. Lasting change.

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Regenerative Farming

100% of our acreage utilizes no-till methods, cover cropping, and agroforestry to restore soil carbon and enhance biodiversity.

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Water Stewardship

Rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation systems reduce water usage by 60% while maintaining optimal crop hydration.

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Community Development

Invested $2.1M in local infrastructure, healthcare, and agricultural training programs since 2018.

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Carbon Neutrality

Achieved net-zero emissions in 2022 through renewable energy, efficient logistics, and verified offset programs.

Our Growing Regions

Carefully selected terroirs that produce distinct, world-class cacao profiles.

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Napo Valley, Ecuador

Our founding estate. Volcanic soil and equatorial climate yield complex notes of red fruit, chocolate, and spice. Home to 120 acres of heritage Criollo and Trinitario varietals.

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Cusco Region, Peru

High-altitude Andean foothills. Cooler temperatures extend the growing season, producing dense beans with bright acidity, citrus, and floral undertones.

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Ashanti Region, Ghana

Strategic partnership farm focusing on resilient Forastero hybrids. Rich, earthy profiles with deep caramel and roasted nut characteristics.