Peach Apricot White: A Harmonious Blend of Flavour and Folklore
Ying and Yang—two forces that beautifully balance each other. This ancient principle shines in our Peach Apricot White tea, where vibrant flavours of peach and apricot unite.
The Legend of the Peach
In Chinese folklore, peaches symbolize longevity and bestow long life on those who enjoy them. This belief comes from tales of the Eight Immortals, divine figures in mythology. One immortal, Yu Huang (the Jade Emperor), was married to Xi Wangmu, the Queen Mother of the West. Xi Wangmu tended a magical tree that bore peaches of immortality. She served these to Yu Huang’s immortal guests during the annual feast called Pantao Hui, or the Feast of Peaches. This rich history elevates peaches, embodying the Yin in our flavour equation.
The Sweetness of Apricot
Now, what about the apricot, the Yang in our blend? Traditionally, apricots symbolize cowardice in Chinese culture. However, their sweet taste and health benefits make them anything but timid. It takes courage to embrace life fully, and the sweetness of apricot adds depth to our tea.
A Heavenly Combination
Together, peaches and apricots create a heavenly flavour profile. Peach Apricot White features premium Pai Mu Tan tea from Fujian, known for its delicate, full-bodied character. This exquisite tea offers subtle citrus hints, layered with faint notes of honey and the jammy essence of the fruits.
Savour the Moment
Whether enjoyed hot or cold, Peach Apricot White is perfect any time of day. Sip it in the morning for a burst of fruity brightness, or enjoy it in the afternoon as a delightful pick-me-up. Pair it with light snacks or desserts, or savour it on its own for a moment of peace.
Ultimately, pour yourself a cup of Peach Apricot White and reflect on the beauty of a long life courageously lived. Each sip is a reminder of the balance between sweetness and depth.
Russian Earl Grey: A Tea with a Rich History
Tea has been cherished in Russia for centuries. Its introduction dates back to the Tsarist era in 1618 when the Chinese ambassador to Moscow gifted Tsar Michael Fedorovich several chests of tea. Although the Tsar accepted the gift graciously, the initial reception was lukewarm. Accustomed to warm fruit and herbal drinks, Tsar Michael and his court found the tea slightly bitter Russian Earl Grey.
The Birth of a Unique Blend
According to Russian folklore, one of Tsar Michael’s chefs had a clever idea: to enhance the tea’s flavour with fruit and spices. This led to experimenting with various blends, including ginger, salt, orange peel, rice, onions, and herbs. Among these, sweeter versions based on citrus fruits gained the most popularity.
As the years passed, this unique Russian tea preparation spread, leading to the creation of samovars, traditional Russian teapots. Today, Russians remain among the highest per capita tea drinkers in the world, enjoying this beloved beverage at all hours.
The Flavour Profile of Russian Earl Grey
In keeping with Russian tradition, our Russian Earl Grey blend features sweet orange peel and soothing lemongrass. It also includes the tart character of bergamot, the signature citrus used to flavour all Earl Greys. To enhance the citrus overtones, try adding a splash of milk. Alternatively, you can sweeten your tea with sugar for a truly Russian taste!
A Cup to Savour All Day Long
Whether you enjoy it in the morning or as an afternoon pick-me-up, Russian Earl Grey is a tea you’ll want to savour throughout the day. Its rich flavours and historical significance make each cup a celebration of tradition and taste. Brew a pot and enjoy the comforting warmth of this timeless blend!
The Queen Mary: A Maritime Marvel
Once the world’s largest and fastest ocean liner, the Queen Mary showcases exceptional shipbuilding artistry. Launched in 1936, this iconic vessel quickly captured the public’s imagination on both sides of the Atlantic. It embodied an age of elegance and style. In 1940, she was pressed into military service, transforming into a troop carrier and earning the nickname “The Grey Ghost.”
A Ship Built for Speed
Refitted for her new role, the Queen Mary could carry up to 15,000 troops across the Atlantic in just four days. Her remarkable speed allowed her to make solo crossings, as she could outrun U-boats. This efficiency made her a vital asset during the war. Among all vessels commissioned by the Cunard Line, the Queen Mary and her sister ship, the Queen Elizabeth, transcended the utilitarian nature of transatlantic travel. With her legendary speed and stately design, she became a symbol of hope, marking the end of the Great Depression.
A Luxurious Experience at Sea
A voyage on this grand ship was often a remedy for life’s troubles. Passengers enjoyed afternoon tea, one of many daily rituals that enhanced their experience. The fresh salt air and warm sunshine invigorated travelers. A comforting cup of tea provided solace against the evening chill as miles of ocean faded into darkness.
The Queen Mary Blend
To honour this remarkable vessel and her legacy, we created the this blend. This delightful tea captures the essence of comfort, quality, and peace of mind. Whether you lounge in a deck chair or sit by the seaside, this blend invites you to indulge in tranquillity. Sip and let the spirit of the Queen Mary transport you to a bygone era of elegance and adventure.
Lady Londonderry: A Sip of Elegance
The Royal Connection
Lady Londonderry has long been associated with royalty and a refined lifestyle through the tradition of tea. This connection deepened in 1662 when King Charles II married the Portuguese princess, Catherine of Braganza. As a confirmed tea drinker, she brought a chest of fine Chinese tea as part of her dowry. Consequently, she began serving this exotic beverage to her aristocratic friends at court, and tea quickly gained popularity across England.
Tea Culture in London
In those days, ladies enjoyed tea at home, while gentlemen frequented the coffee houses flourishing in London. Over time, the social scene surrounding tea became vital to life. Salons hosted lively discussions, intellectual debates, and artistic exchanges over steaming cups. Moreover, as tea consumption evolved, afternoon tea became fashionable, often celebrated with delightful pastries and dainty sandwiches. Imagine how enchanting these gatherings would have been with a lightly flavoured Strawberry Lemon tea!
A Taste of Elegance
This enchanting blend perfectly embodies the grace and sophistication associated with Lady Londonderry. The combination of sweet strawberries and zesty lemons offers a refreshing twist that captures the essence of afternoon tea in a lovely garden setting.
Elevate Your Gatherings
Serving Lady Londonderry tea at your gatherings can evoke nostalgia and charm. Picture the elegant China, the soft clinking of cups, and the gentle laughter of friends as they savour each sip. Whether you host a formal afternoon tea or a casual get-together, this tea will elevate the experience.
Embrace the Tradition
Ultimately, indulge in a cup and let it transport you to a time of refined social gatherings and elegant conversation. Lady Londonderry isn’t just a tea; it’s an invitation to partake in a tradition that celebrates grace, warmth, and camaraderie. Each sip reminds you of the rich history and culture surrounding tea, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Cream Earl Grey: A Luxurious Twist on a Classic
Cream Earl Grey is globally celebrated as a quintessential English tea, often compared to landmarks like Tower Bridge and Big Ben. If you’re a fan of this classic beverage and haven’t tried a creamy variation, you’re in for a delightful experience.
A Smooth and Flavorful Blend
This tea offers a uniquely smooth taste, enhanced by rich vanilla overtones that elegantly complement the premium bergamot. The signature essence of traditional Earl Grey shines through, while the infusion of creamy vanilla adds subtle sweetness, making each sip a luxurious treat.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This exquisite blend pairs beautifully with meals and is ideal for any gathering. Imagine enjoying a warm cup during afternoon tea or serving it at a sophisticated event. It complements delicate pastries and savoury sandwiches, making it versatile for any menu. Its gentle flavour serves as a perfect afternoon pick-me-up or a calming evening indulgence.
A Nod to History
One can’t help but think that Charles Grey (1764-1845), the namesake of this iconic tea, would have approved of such a delicacy. This blend embodies the elegance and sophistication of his era, making it a timeless choice for tea lovers. Earl Grey tea dates back to the 19th century, and this modern twist pays homage to that rich heritage.
Indulge in this creamy delight and elevate your tea experience! Whether you enjoy it solo or share it with friends, this luxurious blend delivers warmth and sophistication in every cup. With its rich history and delightful flavour, Cream Earl Grey is not just a beverage; it’s an experience to savour.
English Breakfast: A Timeless Tradition
The habit of tea drinking is closely linked to British culture, even though the British were relatively late to the tea scene. Interestingly, the first mention of tea in English literature comes from a Dutchman’s travels in the East. Initially, tea arrived in England via Holland on Dutch ships, creating a unique historical twist.
The Rise of Tea in Britain
As tea gained popularity, the British government grew frustrated that a small nation like the Netherlands controlled its shipment to the UK. In response, the Navigation Acts were passed in 1651. These laws forbade the importation of goods on non-British ships. Resourceful traders continued their practices by transferring tea in Holland before moving it to British vessels.
In early British life, tea became known as a health beverage, claimed to have various curative powers. In the 1650s, Garway’s Coffee House proclaimed that tea made the body “active and lusty” and preserved perfect health into old age.
The Birth of Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea originated thanks to Anna, the wife of the seventh Duke of Bedford. At that time, people typically had only two planned meals: a hearty breakfast and a late dinner. Anna experienced a “sinking feeling” in the afternoon. To address this, she had her servants prepare tea and cakes, leading to a fashionable habit that continues today.
A Rich Tea Legacy
Britain boasts a rich tea history, encompassing various cultural milestones. From High Tea and the iconic Brown Betty teapot to significant events like the American War of Independence and the Opium Wars, tea has played a pivotal role in British life. The legendary Clipper Ship races from Fuzhou, China, to Portsmouth, and the illustrious Earl Grey all contribute to this rich tapestry of tea culture.
English Breakfast tea stands as a testament to this historical journey. Its robust flavour and hearty character make it a staple for many. Enjoy it in the morning to kickstart your day or during afternoon gatherings. Embrace the rich history of English Breakfast tea, and savour a cup that tells a story centuries in the making.
Earl Grey: A Timeless Blend of Tradition
Earl Grey tea is a harmonious blend of Chinese and Indian teas, delicately scented with oil from the citrus bergamot fruit, a variety of orange. The stories surrounding this classic tea are rich and varied. One popular tale recounts how a British diplomat saved the life of a Mandarin during a mission to China. In gratitude, the Mandarin gifted him the recipe for this unique flavored tea. Upon returning to Britain, the diplomat presented the tea to Prime Minister Charles Grey.
Another version suggests that it was Earl Grey himself who saved the Mandarin, further intertwining his legacy with this beloved blend. Regardless of its origin, it was Charles Grey, Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834, who popularized this drink.
The Finest Teas from Sri Lanka
We source our blend from the top three tea-growing regions of Sri Lanka: Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, and Uva. The Dimbula and western estates of Nuwara Eliya peak in quality during January and February, while Uva and the eastern estates reach their peak in July and August. This seasonal variation allows us to select the finest leaves multiple times a year.
These high-grown districts produce teas known for their classic Ceylon character, featuring a floral bouquet and subtle astringency. We use natural flavouring oils to ensure a high-quality experience, avoiding artificial additives.
Earl Grey tea remains a cherished classic, embodying a rich history and unique flavour profile. Whether enjoyed in the morning or as an afternoon delight, each sip transports you to a time when tea was more than just a drink—it was a cultural phenomenon. Enjoy the exquisite balance of flavours that makes this blend a timeless favourite.
