- Email: cocoatour@mtparnassusplantation.site
- Phone: (473) 403-1697/ (473) 449-8883
Join us for an immersive Caribbean agro-tourism experience into the art, science, uses and growing processes of Grenada’s Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa and Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg. Mt. Parnassus Plantation is nestled in the rolling hills and sun-kissed, volcanic landscapes of Grenada.
Mt. Parnassus Plantation is part of the historic 1800’s Mt. Parnassus Estate, a former African slave plantation.
Whether you’re a cocoa or spice enthusiast, an adventure seeker, seeking a unique health and wellness experience or simply looking to discover the authentic charm of Grenada our agro-tourism experience allows you to discover the magic of Grenada cocoa and Grenada nutmeg where it all begins.
On your agro-tourism excursion visit our mixed plantation and be immersed in the production processes, culture, culinary extravaganza and health & wellness benefits of Grenada Cocoa, Grenada nutmeg, West Indian bay leaf, pimento, cinnamon and a host of other spices, flowers, fruits herbs and medicinal plants.
Health & wellness are values engrained in the daily operation of Mt. Parnassus Plantation. Our aim is to improve your health by promoting a healthy lifestyle using safe, naturally grown ingredients, sustainable practices and focusing on wellness – physical, spiritual, emotional and mental. Here we focus on the themes – pure and spice.
Our health & wellness tours offer an immersive experience designed to inspire and empower you to prioritize your well-being.
Throughout your visit you will explore various wellness practices – from holistic nutrition and mindfulness to rejuvenating fitness activities and natural therapies.
Engage with experienced practitioners who will impart valuable insights and techniques to help you cultivate a healthier lifestyle.
Our Caribbean agro-tourism initiative invites you to connect with the land, learn about natural and sustainable agriculture and engage in hands-on activities that promote well-being—such as immersive farm-to-table cooking classes, exercise amidst the plantation and wellness retreats that highlight the importance of healthy living.
Our tour it is an opportunity to rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit while fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.
Join us on a transformative journey dedicated to nurturing your body, mind and soul!
Welcome to the world of Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa hair and skincare products where the rich, natural properties of Grenada cocoa are harnessed to elevate your beauty routine. The luxury hair and skin care brand Cocoa Pod Botanicals uses single-sourced Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa and Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg from Mt. Parnassus Plantation.
Our range of cocoa and nutmeg infused products are designed to nourish, hydrate and rejuvenate your skin promoting a healthy, radiant glow.
Join us as we explore the benefits of Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa and Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg in our ritual handwashing ceremony. This experience activates your 5-senses especially the luxurious, moisturizing and exfoliating feel of our hand and body wash to the rich, aromatic smells of our fine flavour nutmeg and cocoa.
Grenada cocoa is considered fine-flavored because of its unique combination of terroir, traditional cultivation methods and the complex, nuanced flavors that emerge from its beans. Fine-flavored cocoa refers to cocoa beans that exhibit a distinctive, pleasant and high-quality taste profile, as well as superior aroma. Our Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa is highly sought after for these qualities.
Ideal Growing Conditions (Terroir)
The volcanic soil, tropical climate and specific growing conditions create an ideal environment for cultivating fine-flavored cocoa. Our island’s rich, fertile volcanic soil imparts essential minerals and nutrients to the cocoa trees, resulting in beans with deep, complex flavor profiles.
Grenada’s climate, characterized by consistent rainfall, warm temperatures and high humidity—supports cocoa trees throughout the year, allowing for slower, more controlled ripening of the pods. This slow growth and development enable the beans to fully mature and develop complex flavors.
Cocoa Bean Variety
Grenada is known for its Criollo and Trinitario varieties of cocoa, both of which are considered among the highest quality in the world.
Criollo: This is the rarest and most prized cocoa variety, known for its delicate, floral and complex flavors. Criollo cocoa is often described as having subtle notes of fruitiness, creaminess and spices with a smooth non-bitter finish. Though it’s more difficult to grow and lower in yield Criollo cocoa’s refined taste makes it highly desirable.
Trinitario: A hybrid of Criollo and Forastero varieties, Trinitario combines the strength and resilience of Forastero with the refined flavor profile of Criollo. Trinitario cocoa is more widely grown but still retains much of the fine flavor characteristics associated with its Criollo ancestry.
Flavor Profile
Our Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa is known for its rich, complex and nuanced flavor profile. Grenada’s cocoa beans are said to possess distinct fruity, floral and spicy notes with a subtle balance of sweetness, acidity and bitterness. At Mt. Parnassus Plantation we operate a “mixed plantation” system where our Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa is grown amongst cinnamon, clove, pimento, West Indian Bay leaf, moringa, guava, citrus, soursop, banana and other crops which impart unique flavours. Common descriptors for the flavor include: Fruity: Notes of red fruit, citrus and even tropical fruits like banana or pineapple. Floral: Subtle hints of floral undertones.
Post-Harvest Processing
The methods used to process our Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa beans also contribute to its fine flavor. After harvest our cocoa beans are carefully fermented and dried allowing the beans to develop their characteristic aroma and flavor.
Fermentation: The fermentation process is critical to developing thecomplex flavors found in Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa. At Mt. Parnassus Plantation we ferment our cocoa in wooden boxes for 7–8 days allowing the beans to fully break down and develop their full flavor potential. This fermentation process helps reduce bitterness and develops the more fruity, floral and chocolatey notes in the beans.
Drying: After fermentation, the beans are sun-dried which helps preserve the aroma and oils that contribute to the rich flavor profile of our cocoa.
Sustainable and Traditional Farming Practices
Grenada’s Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa is often grown using sustainable, small-scale farming practices. Like other farmers in Pure Grenada we continue to use traditional methods that emphasize quality over quantity which leads to the cultivation of cocoa beans with a more refined, fine-flavored taste. This artisanal, sustainable approach helps maintain the flavor integrity of Grenadian fine flavour cocoa and ensures that only the best cocoa beans make it to market.
These practices often include:
Intercropping with other plants: Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa is traditionally grown alongside other crops such as Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg which helps maintain a balanced ecosystem and can enhance the cocoa’s flavor through natural processes.
Minimal use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides: This leads to more pure, natural cocoa beans with fewer impurities that can affect flavor.
Small, family-owned farms: Mt. Parnassus Plantation like the majority of Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa farmers in Grenada is small and family owned. We take pride in our work, carefully tending to each cocoa tree and harvesting cocoa beans by hand to ensure the highest quality.
Global Recognition
Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa has earned a reputation for being among the finest in the world, not only due to its exceptional flavor but also because of its ethical and sustainable production practices. Pure Grenada’s fine flavour cocoa is highly sought after by premium chocolate makers and craft chocolatiers who value its complex flavor profile which can elevate their products. Our Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa is often featured in single-origin chocolates and high-end cocoa products, where its fine flavor can truly shine. Pure Grenada’s reputation for producing fine-flavored cocoa is further solidified by the Geographical Indication (GI) status granted to the island’s cocoa, which protects and promotes the quality of its beans in global markets.
Geographic Indication and Awards
One can never speak about Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa without mentioning chocolate. The London Academy of Chocolate Awards has paid homage to the superb characteristics of Grenada’s chocolate produced by companies such as the Grenada Chocolate Company. We are now familiar with chocolate companies such as Jouvay Chocolate and Tri-Island Chocolate to satisfy our chocolate fix.
The annual Grenada Chocolate Festival celebrates Fine Flavour Grenada Cocoa and chocolate.
Pure Grenada: The Spice of the Caribbean is well on its way to achieving official Geographic Indication status for its unique and fine flavour cocoa and nutmeg.
According to Andrew Hastick the manager of the Grenada Cocoa Association which makes Jouvay Chocolate our time-honoured processes impart unique qualities to Grenada’s fine flavour cocoa.
Grenada Nutmeg
Welcome to the enchanting world of Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada nutmeg, colloquially known as “Grenada’s Black Gold”. Here we take you on a journey through the history, harvesting and artisanal processes which brings this beloved spice to life.
From cooking to skin and hair care discover the health & wellness benefits, culinary delights and the role of nutmeg in Pure Grenadian culture and heritage as we delve into the heart of this aromatic and fine flavour gem. Pure Grenada: The Spice of the Caribbean recently won the first Culinary Capital Award due to the integration of spices such as Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada nutmeg in the majority of our local Grenadian dishes and drinks – we spice it up!
Ideal Growing Conditions
Here in Pure Grenada: The Spice of the Caribbean our climate, soil and topography create perfect conditions for growing high-quality Fine Flavour and Aromatic Nutmeg. The Isle of Spice’s tropical rainforest climate, with regular rainfall, warm temperatures and abundant sunshine supports the growth of nutmeg trees that produce robust and aromatic seeds. The soil in Pure Grenada is rich in volcanic minerals which enhances the nutritional content and the flavor of our nutmeg. The unique terroir (environmental factors influencing the flavor) of our island contributes to the distinctive spicy-sweet profile that makes our Grenadian nutmeg highly sought after.
Traditional and Sustainable Farming Practices
Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg cultivation follows traditional, artisanal farming methods passed down through generations. These methods prioritize sustainability ensuring that at Mt. Parnassus Plantation our nutmeg is grown without the use of harmful chemicals or industrial farming practices. Composting and mulching are essential elements of our nutmeg growing. At Mt. Parnassus Plantation we cultivate Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg trees alongside other crops, promoting biodiversity and creating a healthy, balanced ecosystem. The careful attention given to each stage of growth, from planting to harvest results in superior-quality nutmegs. Additionally, like other farmers our nutmeg is grown in small family-owned plots, where we as farmers have a deep personal connection to the land and our produce. This sense of ownership and care is reflected in the quality of our harvest where we provide you with the best nature has to offer.
Floral, Rich and Complex Flavor
Grenada’s Fine Flavour and Aromatic Nutmeg is prized for its rich, warm and aromatic flavor profile. Nutmeg grown at Mt. Parnassus Plantation has a complex balance of spicy, sweet and slightly woody notes with hints of clove, cinnamon and vanilla. This flavor complexity makes it ideal for use in both culinary and medicinal applications. Grenada’s nutmeg has a mild heat that adds warmth to food and beverages without overpowering other flavors. Its depth of flavor is one of the key reasons why it is favored by top chefs, chocolatiers and spice experts worldwide. The mace, the red lacy part covering the nutmeg seed is also highly prized for its slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor adding another layer of versatility to Grenada’s nutmeg harvest. Even the pod or outer shell is used in our local cuisine.
Superior Essential Oil Content
The high essential oil content in Grenadian nutmeg contributes to its strong, aromatic fragrance and depth of flavor. Nutmeg is valued for its volatile oils, primarily myristicin, which gives it its characteristic scent and taste. The combination of the Isle of Spice’s climate and the careful handling during harvesting and drying processes allows the nutmeg to retain its potent essential oils.
Hand-Harvested and Carefully Processed
At Mt. Parnassus Plantation our Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg is hand-harvested and processed with great care. Typically, the nutmeg pods are allowed to fall to the ground for collection, then they are dried naturally under the tropical sun, a traditional method that helps preserve the oils and aromas. This careful post-harvest processing is crucial for maintaining Grenada’s nutmeg high quality. The mace, which surrounds the nutmeg seed, is also carefully separated and dried to maintain its flavor and fragrance. The attention to detail in both harvesting and processing ensures that our Grenadian nutmeg retains its optimal flavor and potency.
Distinctive Regional Branding and Recognition
Grenadian nutmeg has earned a reputation for excellence and is widely regarded as one of the finest varieties of nutmeg globally. Our nutmeg production is underpinned by a commitment to high-quality production which has led to international recognition and geographical indication (GI) status for Grenadian nutmeg. This means that only nutmeg grown in Grenada can carry the “Grenada Nutmeg” label.
Global Demand and Export Quality
Due to its exceptional flavor and quality, Grenadian nutmeg is in high demand worldwide. It is exported to major international markets, where it is used in premium products ranging from culinary spices and essential oils to cosmetics and traditional remedies.
The strong reputation of Grenadian nutmeg in the global market ensures that it is carefully handled throughout the supply chain, maintaining the integrity of the product.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Nutmeg has been cultivated in Grenada for centuries and the Isle of Spice has a deep historical connection to the spice trade. From our cuisine to medicinal uses we include nutmeg-based products in our daily lives. The historical legacy of nutmeg in Grenada, combined with the expertise of our farmers has shaped the unique characteristics of the spice that we celebrate today. Our Fine Flavour and Aromatic Grenada Nutmeg is a symbol of local pride and craftsmanship, making it more than just a product—it’s a part of our island’s cultural heritage.
THE NUTMEG
There is none like you, Me Lady
From a distance, your colours mesmerise
It’s like God has crafted the sun, moon, stars
and sea in your eyes
The fragrance oozing from your pores
Wafts its sexy scent to tempt
And your windswept petticoat
Takes my breath away
Lady in red, your nuttiness smells so nice
My gosh! I swear by the sunlit azure sky
Shimmering upon your golden glow
That you are a seductive spice
Wow, that mysterious hint of blackness
Teasing, taunting admires closer
To touch, kiss, smell to taste your inner-core
hidden in black-gold
There is none so fiery as you, Me Lady
In diversity, you are the champion
In class, essence and medicine
there is no competition
Me Lady in red, you are Grenada’s Golden Prize
Environmental Stewarts
Our Grenda cocoa and Grenada nutmeg agro-tourism tour sustainable practices and eco-conscious farming meets the rich tradition of Pure Grenada: The Spice of the Caribbean agricultural heritage.
At Mt. Parnassus Plantation we embrace time honoured natural and sustainable farming methods that protect biodiversity, enhance soil health and reduce chemical use ensuring that our Grenada cocoa not only nurtures those who consume it but also the environment from which it comes.
Join us as we explore the delicate balance between agriculture and conservation and discover how our dedication to sustainability allows us to create delicious, ethically sourced cocoa that benefits you, our shared communities and the earth!
UN SDGs
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) provides a comprehensive framework for addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change and environmental degradation. With 17 interconnected goals aimed at creating a more sustainable and equitable world by 2030, the SDGs serve as a guiding vision for countries, organizations and individuals like you. In this context our agro-tourism plantation tour presents a unique opportunity to engage with sustainable agricultural practices while supporting local communities and ecosystems.
By immersing visitors in the rich traditions of Grenada cocoa and Grenada nutmeg farming and food production, our interactive tour not only highlights the importance of sustainable practices in achieving the SDGs but also fosters a deeper understanding of the connection between agriculture, community well-being and environmental stewardship.
You will gain insights into Pure Grenada’s sustainable farming techniques, experience our local culture and heritage and learn how agro-tourism contributes to the broader goals of sustainability. Our agro-tourism tour would either serve as a launching pad or continuation of your contribution towards the global initiative to achieve the UN SDGs.
Discover holistic wellness with Mt. Parnassus Plantation and transform your health naturally
1(473) 403-1697 / 1(473) 449-8883
cocoatour@
mtparnassusplantation.site
Mt. Parnassus Plantation, Mt. Parnassus Road, St. George, Grenada
