A distinctively Russian looking design draws your eye to this elegant looking boxed bar. The outside proudly displays a selection of awards this Russian chocolate maker has received in the last few years. The next thing you will notice is how solid and heavy this bar is at 3.5 oz, larger than average. When you unfold the gold foil paper, the lustrous deep brown color shines through despite some faint bloom. The bar is divided into substantial quadrants, sized for a real chocolate lover. The snap is decidedly crisp and the resulting edge is clean and without any shelly quality.

As you breath in, aromas of caramel, coffee and a faint wisp of tobacco invite your senses. This chocolate unfolds with flavors of roasted nuts and dark caramel, and finishes with the taste of cappuccino. The texture is velvety smooth and rich with a surprisingly clean mouthfeel. A decadently slow and thick melt, allows your senses time to revel in the experience of this fantastic dark bar. The balance of sweetness is excellent, pairing well with the coffee undertones, but never overshadowing the chocolate.

A magnificent example of fine confectionery, produced outside Moscow, and available in limited locations in the US. To my surprise, this bar sells for only $3.99, equating to $1.14 per oz, which is one of the less expensive artisan bars available. The next time you want to sink your teeth into something rich and satisfying, A. Korkunov will most definitely quench your desire.