-
Pagoda Red: A Blend of Tradition and Herbal Elegance
Our journey through the Trapped in Amber series concludes with the intriguing Pagoda Red—a tea that artfully combines the robust character of Zhenghe Red with the refreshing qualities of Eau de Cologne mint and anise hyssop flowers. This tea represents a cross-cultural collaboration that brings together the best of both worlds. Cultivating Connections Across Continents…
-
Gardenia Red: Embracing the Bouqet of Tea and Gardenia
Exploring teas that seamlessly blend tradition with innovation is always a delight, and the Gardenia Red from Volition Tea’s Trapped in Amber series is a perfect embodiment of this harmony. This tea invites us into a world where the rich depths of Zhenghe Red meet the delicate allure of gardenia blossoms, resulting in an experience…
-
Barrel-Aged Red: Unveiling the Alchemy of Tea and Bourbon Barrels
There’s a unique allure in teas that tell a story, and the Barrel-Aged Red from Volition Tea’s Trapped in Amber series is one such narrative that intertwines tradition, innovation, and science. This tea isn’t a flavor gimmick; it’s about the journey from leaf to cup and the meticulous processes that transform it along the way.…
-
Tea Review: Top of the World Tea Reserve – Nepal Tea Collective
When you think of high-elevation tea, what comes to mind? You may recall how the slow growth and hot/cold temperatures significantly impact the development of sugars in the leaf or the elasticity in its texture. Hailing from Bhakanje, Solukhumbu, the home of Mount Everest, Nepal Tea Collective has sourced a series of black teas. They…
-
Tea Review: The Many Harvests of India – Ketlee Tasting
You can taste a broad spectrum of flavors when talking about Indian teas. Recently, we poured a collection of teas from India for the community here in Chicago. The purpose – share how unique and special the region is in tea cultivation and production methods. Ketlee is one of my go-to sources; I knew they…
-
10 Memorable Teas in 2021
Winter’s frost gets my mind busy at work as I sift through a year in reflection of the teas I’ve tasted and the ones that stand out. Just like 2019 and 2020, it’s time to share the 10 memorable teas in 2021! The teas shared below are in no way ranked and though there are…
-
Himalayan Treasures: Four Teas From Ketlee
From Ketlee’s humble beginnings in 2015, they’ve provided a spectrum of tea experiences through their dynamic portfolio. My relationship with Indian tea is still a personal focus as I move through adjacent regions, and so I was thrilled to accept a handful of teas to reflect upon and further my understanding. My first experience with…
-
Crimson Radiance: Ruby Red from Teawala
Mention Ruby Red to anyone and eyes light up in joy. The long and thin leaves of TRES #18 are marked by contrasting sensations of cool fresh air and cozy warmth, providing an unforgettable experience. As I hadn’t tasted this tea myself until very recently, I knew it was a time when I revisited the…
-
10 Memorable Teas from 2020
It’s difficult to believe that another year is coming to a close. I remember last December I sat with a kyusu of hojicha, recalling fond memories of numerous teas while looking forward to a new year. 2020 has been a different year for us all, and the times I searched for a tea to fit…
-
The Good Fortune of Jin Kong Que “Golden Peacock”
Back with another partnered blog article with Masters Teas by Adagio, I taste and dive into this well-balanced Yunnan black tea. Its versatility and well-rounded malt and sweet potato attributes make this pleasant year-round. Click on The Good Fortune of Jin Kong Que Tea to see my exploration! Steep well! -Marco
STEAP'D 