Suavva: Orange Cacao

Using a 76% juice blend of cacao puree, apple juice, water, and orange juice, Suavva’s Orange Cacao Juice is a product that is very raw in its execution. Starting with the aroma, which is bitter and uninviting, we think that this product will be difficult even in a sampling scenario. From there, the sweetness of the apple and bitterness of the cacao puree take center stage, with the orange hitting your palate towards the finish. More orange juice and less cacao and apple would definitely help. However, we wonder why they chose to go with a citrus flavor rather than something that plays to what consumers think of (at least American consumers) when they hear cacao (e.g. chocolate). As it stands, the pairing is not something that whets the appetite or is overly enjoyable. Unfortunately, it doesn’t get any better when it comes to the drink’s packaging. Visually, there’s too much going on, with many different fonts and colors that don’t go together. Honestly, in it’s current form we think that the best approach is to start fresh -- there aren’t really any quick fixes otherwise. Overall, Suavva Orange Cacao Juice is a product that, as it stands today, will have limited niche appeal at best.