Speciality Teas
Organic oolong "blue" tea from China A delicious and very interesting tea that envelops you with its strong warm scent, reminiscent of woods and travels...and becomes slightly floral when tasted. Blue tea (or Oolong tea) won’t look blue, don’t panic! It is referred to as blue tea because it’s considered in between green and black teas in terms of its processing and taste. It is stronger than green tea but doesn’t have the punch of black tea. Leaves Used: The two or three youngest leaves of the tea bush have been picked for this tea. Did you know that 80% of the protective antioxidants in tea are contained in the first 3 leaves and bud of the tea bush?
White tea from China This tea is a 'bai mu dan' from the Fujian province of China, with a good proportion of buds. "A light, silky, delicate tasting tea, gentle like a stream... "White tea is the rarest and most delicate of teas. Only the unopened tips or buds are harvested, normally within 48 hours of maturity. These tender buds are steamed and not dried as in black or green teas, undergoing no fermentation. Leaves Used: White tea is the most delicate and most natural form of tea. It involves picking only the 2 youngest leaves, still on the stem, and young buds (nicknamed needles), which are then naturally withered and dried in the sun. It is also believed to have more protective antioxidants than other teas.
Darjeeling Muscatel Valley first flush 2007 black tea The Muscatel Valley tea garden is located very close to the town of Darjeeling and has a reputation for some of the finest first and second flush teas from the area. This first flush is no exception to this tradition. A crisp and clear Darjeeling which retains the purity of the mountain air. Leaves Used: The first flush of growth after winter is more subtle and delicate in its flavour. Since the first flush is the first tea of the year and produced in very small quantities, this tea tends to be rare.
Chun Mei "Precious Eyebrow" green tea from China A high-grown tea producing a remarkable lasting aftertaste from its light amber infusion, reminiscent of plums. Leaves Used: It is made of leaves that are between 8 and 12mm long and then twisted lengthways. Sometimes known as "Precious Eyebrow." Green tea is produced by steaming the leaves to destroy the enzymes that might otherwise ferment the leaves. The leaves are then rolled and fired to dry them.
Jasmine Silver Fur white tea from Fujian in China Jasmine Silver Fur is a white tea and offers all the delights of jasmine tea with a smoother taste. Made from very high quality and expensive leaves, this tea is highly prized amongst tea connoisseurs. A favourite with Michelin starred customers. Leaves Used: Made from white tea naturally scented up to four times by the developing aroma of freshly gathered jasmine flowers. After the scenting process, the flowers are discarded.