So I definitely expected this to be a hot blend given the name Internal Combustion but let me just say that, when it comes to their blends with chili in them, Firebelly does NOT fuck around…
The dry leaf smells deceptively sweet and of black licorice. I know not everyone like black licorice but (despite not loving liquorice root) I love those deep and more molasses-like black licorice flavours from anise or fennel. This blend smelled very appetizing to me. It does actually still taste strongly of anise and fennel when steeped, but the fucker is hot! Lots of ginger and the kind of chili that burns going down and hangs in your mouth.
Of the “spiced” teas in their line up this one was my favourite and I might actually drink it again because the anise/fennel flavour was soooo good and so fresh tasting. However a full sixteen mug might be a struggle just ‘cause of that heat level. There’s something to be said about the fact you sort of feel like it’s doing something good for you when you drink it, though…