I love this! Such an awesome, nutty, stick-to-your-ribs breakfast tea. I brewed it Western-style, in my Kati. It makes me laugh because this is a very American-style offering, for the following reasons—
1.) It’s tea sourced from India, but it’s named after an American city. As with everything else the U.S. has done historically, linguistically, and culturally, it’s FINDERS KEEPERS, I guess.
2.) The packaging simply says that it’s a blend of three different Indian black teas. No mention of which specific varieties of Indian black teas. LOL. Guess they figure (probably accurately) that most American tea drinkers wouldn’t care to know that level of detail. (For whatever it’s worth, this detail-loving American tea drinker definitely gets a small bite of Assam astringency, mellowed out by slight butter, raisin, and cocoa notes from the other two mystery varieties. Whatever tea-blending and characteristic- balancing magic happened here, it’s very delicious and effective.)
3.) It’s robust, hearty, good quality, and packs a punch with caffeine. Basically, it’s everything Americans would want and expect in a morning cuppa, being a nation that famously favors coffee.
4.) It’s very low maintenance, perfect for office settings and city people in a hurry. You don’t need to monitor it particularly closely; it doesn’t become very bitter if you accidentally over-steep it.
5.) I re-steeped the leaves and they yielded a second cup that was just as strong and flavorful as the first steep, so I’m definitely getting my money’s worth, which is another thing Americans value.
All in all, I’d say this is a pretty tight product, and that this company knows very well who their target demographic is.
Flavors: Astringent, Butter, Cocoa, Raisins
We need more tea that fits Standard #4!
Agreed! Low-maintenance teas are appreciated, especially in the morning.
@gmathis and @leafhopper This one definitely delivers as a breakfast tea! I recommend it without reservation.