In Full Bloom
Rare Tea Company's Jasmine Silvertip Tea
Rating: 15/20

One can tell just by glancing at the leaves that Rare Tea Company's Jasmine Silvertip tea will be bursting with natural flavor. They look plump and fresh-picked, and, once brewed, emit the romantic and sensuous aroma of a blooming spring garden. The floral nose is powerful but not overwhelming. The blossom taste is obvious at first sip, but other flavors slowly emerge— a subtle fruit note, the slight tang of lemon, and an earthy finish.

The Rare Tea Company sources their leaves from independent growers in the historic Fujian province in China. This intimate relationship with growers and their product ensures accurate brewing, and serving, directions. They suggest drinking this tea by itself, with no milk or sugar added. This is certainly a suggestion to heed. The addition of milk would muddy the delicate flavors, and sugar would push the tea's delicate sweetness in a cloying direction. It is truly best to let this tea delight your taste buds... au naturale.

Price: £11 (approximately $22) for 50g.

For more information, visit www.rareteacompany.com
*Image by Henrik Olund

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