OK… I was so excited to receive this tea… not because of the tea, per se, but because of the location of the tea room! It is in Portland on 23rd Ave! YAY! My two favorite areas of Portland are 23rd Ave and Alberta Street. These two streets have a charm all their own… they haven’t been Wal-Mart-ed or Target-ed. They have a very cool vibe about them.
But lately what has made Alberta Street stand out for me is that they have Townshend’s Tea Shop… but now, I’ve learned of Tea Chai Te on 23rd Ave! So… now, when I go to Portland… which street to choose??? Sure… Alberta has Collage (my favorite art supply store), but, 23rd has Paper Source (an awesome paper store). Plus, 23rd St. has Moonstruck Chocolate (OMG)… but then, Alberta has the Radio Room and an awesome vegan bakery.
But… for now, I will get back to this tea.
This is a really delicious chai blend – Spicy deliciousness, but with a nice sweetness from the citrus and the star anise. I like the little bit of licorice-like taste in the finish. This is so warm and comforting on a cold day like this. Vigorous and wonderful!
As this tea cools a little, the peppery notes of the ginger and pepper seem to pop and linger in the aftertaste. It’s nice – especially if you like ginger (which I do!)