Vanilla Thrilla

Got some of this for the first time since last year—I have been acquiring more and more true tea and didn’t have as much caffeine-free stuff on hand. Upon opening the bag, I am awash in the heady aroma of bourbon and rooibos. Mmm, it’s kind of like cookies with too much vanilla (we always add a little extra in my house). I brewed it for about 6 minutes, breathing in the fumes. Since it smells so bourbony I’m going to call it fumes, not aroma…it certainly feels that way.

First sips. In the first second or two, not much happens, but then BOOM—creamy, rich vanilla. It stays in your mouth for ages…in a grandfabulous way. The rooibos lends a toasty note. This vanilla tastes so authentic—like a mixture of pure vanilla bean and the best Mexican vanilla extract my family uses. I didn’t like this one as much when I got it the first time…for some reason. But my goodness, this will stick around from now on.

Winner.

This vanilla-flavored rooibos is quickly becoming my go-to for evenings when I want dessert but I’ve already had all the sugar and caffeine I can handle for the day. Very strong vanilla flavor, holds up well to blending with milk, chocolate, even marshmallows.