I received this as a sample from Teajo Teas several months ago and am just now – very belatedly! – getting around to trying it. I didn’t do the stovetop thing (although I’d like to try it sometime); I just followed the instructions on the packaging: 1 tsp. in 8 oz. boiling water for 3 minutes.
I mostly tasted the assam – it’s a very nice, high-quality base, without any bitterness. The pepper also came through quite strongly. Ginger and cinnamon are detectable, but faint. I couldn’t pick out any of the other spices. I love ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom, so I was a bit disappointed not to be getting more of these in particular. About halfway through my cup, I added a generous splash of almond milk. I thought it might bring out some of the hidden spices, but unfortunately it just overwhelmed the chai.
This was very pleasant, but I do prefer a more assertively-spiced chai. Reading the other reviews, though, I’m wondering if I may not have done a good job mixing up my bag – I did give it a good shake beforehand, but I’ll pay more attention when I make my next cup.
