I don’t usually drink flavored black teas… I am a purist, unless it comes to chai and a few from Lupicia, and in those cases, I’m a bit of an easy woman. I got this sample from some generous soul out there prior to my unexpected surgery, and can’t remember for the life of me who it was…but whoever that is, thank you for sharing! I pulled this from my box of samples today because I’ve been jonesing for Lupicia’s Decaf Carol every evening (hot, delicious Cap’n Crunch with Crunchberries anyone?) so here it is in my cup on a Sunday morning.
My aversion to most flavored teas is that they make me burp the flavor long after the tea is gone….they also taste fake, and usually hide cheapo tea underneath. But THIS is FANCY tea! Obviously the fancy french have been flavoring teas for quite some time, because this is different…
The base of this tea is smooth and balanced for a flavored tea….a bit brisk for my liking, but I have a low tolerance level for astringency. The 4 fruits are not overpowering nor cloying. They are well balanced with the tea. They are also not too sweet, thanks to the red currant.
If this was served at a restaurant or bakery, I would happily have another cup. Will I search it out online to purchase a tin? Not yet. In my tea journey I am still enjoying the terrain and company of unflavored black teas. But a sojourn here and there for the unexpected is always welcome.