Mariage Frères Advent Calendar 2022 – Day 2
What a name. The label says “green mate chai,” so I steeped it at a low temperature, under four minutes, expecting “consequences.” I needn’t have fussed (no actual green tea is in this blend; just mate). It ended steeping up to a well-balanced cup – filled with citrus, sweet grass, and grounding earthy notes – although, not earthy enough to qualify as “dirt-like.”
The “chai” component is more of a finishing accent, than something that dominates the blend – at least to start. I initially couldn’t tell what spice(s) were present – but it has the same effect as the pleasant burn of cinnamon hearts. It builds pleasantly as I continue to sip away at my cup. Peppercorn, ginger, and cardamom maybe? The spices are sweet and zesty in their heat, and meld artfully with the earthy and grassy tones.
I actually like this one a lot. The warmth of the blend is just the thing on this sluggish, snowy morning. I’m almost awake now.
Steep Count: 2
Flavors: Cardamom, Cinnamon, Citrus Zest, Citrusy, Earthy, Ginger, Grassy, Lemon, Peppercorn, Smooth, Spicy, Sweet
