From Malay Mail · · 1m 50s
Sao Tome’s Vanilla: Global Fans Taste Unique Spice
Worldwide fans discover Sao Tome’s rare vanilla, grown on a tiny island with a history of cocoa.
In brief
Worldwide fans discover Sao Tome’s rare vanilla, grown on a tiny island with a history of cocoa. Sao Tome’s vanilla, grown by local farmers, is now sought after by European chefs for its unique flavor profile. Originally reported by Malay Mail.
Sao Tome’s Vanilla Revival
Sao Tome has resumed growing vanilla, the world’s second most expensive spice, to diversify its economy.
Vanilla’s Economic Promise
Vanilla cultivation brings larger profits once or twice a year for farmers compared to cocoa’s small annual earnings.
Local Farmers’ Investment
Ifrasio de Barros Rompao, a Sao Tome farmer, invested in vanilla after his mother grew cocoa, saying it provides essential income for his family.
Vanilla’s Unique Flavor
Sao Tome vanilla has notes of cocoa nibs, floral elegance with violet notes, and hints of small red berries.
European Market Appeal
Michelin-starred chefs in France, Switzerland, and Belgium target Sao Tome vanilla for premium grocery shops and fine dining.
Vanilla Production Process
Vanilla takes up to three or four years to develop flowers, then undergoes sun drying, indoor drying, massaging, scalding, fermentation, and curing.
L’Atelier Vanilha’s Role
L’Atelier Vanilha, co-founded by Juliette Dohar and Francesco Mai, buys vanilla from 50 farmers to process locally before exporting to Europe.
Historical Context
Sao Tome was once the world’s leading cocoa producer but shifted to vanilla after cocoa prices became volatile and plantations aged.
Global Vanilla Market
Madagascar and Indonesia dominate global vanilla production with 3,000 tonnes between them, while Sao Tome remains a niche player.
Sao Tome’s Flavor Profile
Sao Tome vanilla carries the island’s landscape, with floral elegance, violet notes, and hints of small red berries in its aroma.
Vanilla’s Future
Sao Tome aims to achieve high quality vanilla for premium markets, targeting fine grocery shops and Michelin-starred restaurants globally.
The headline
Sao Tome’s vanilla, grown by local farmers, is now sought after by European chefs for its unique flavor profile.
