It seems like everything this time of year is filled with pumpkin spice and all that jazz. When I first started drinking tea I always looked forward to fall because all of the tea companies release their festive ciders and other flavored teas. However, over the years my own tea tastes have moved more towards the unflavored side. I thought it might be fun to put together a little list of teas that are perfect for this time of year.
Rou Gui
Rou Gui is an oolong from the Wuyi Mountains of China. It has the dark, roasty taste that is typical of this region along a subtle cinnamon spice aroma. The name even means cassia bark. If you’ve never tried it before, check out my reviews of Tribute Tea Company Cassia Bark Oolong and White2Tea Rougui Oolong.
Autumn Flush Darjeeling
Most tea drinkers are familiar with 1st and 2nd flush Darjeeling but did you know that there is almost an autumn flush? While it isn’t as highly touted as the others, I really enjoy the bolder character that this time of year brings. It’s been a few years since I’ve written a review of one but I highly recommend +Happy Earth Tea, +Golden Tips Tea Co Pvt Ltd and +Udyan Tea.
Tie Guan Yin
You might also know this tea as Iron Goddess or Monkey Picked Oolong. Autumn harvests are often highly prized because they are more aromatic than spring teas. While they’re still floral, they’ve always felt perfect for this time of year when I drink them. Two of my favorites are Zhen Tea Tie Guan Yin – Classic and Teavivre Anxi Superfine Tie Guan Yin “Iron Goddess” Oolong Tea.
Dian Hong
Dian Hong refers to black teas that are produced in China’s Yunnan Province. They have an earthy, malty quality than I start craving once the weather gets chilly. Some examples worth checking out at Seven Cups Dian Hong Gong Fu, Wild Tea Qi Artisan Yunnan Black Needle and Teavivre Nonpareil Yunnan Dian Hong Chinese Red Black Tea.
Houjicha
I drink much more green tea in Spring and Summer but the one exception to that is probably Houjicha. Green tea leaves and stems are highly roasted giving it a taste that is sweet, toasty and oh, so comforting. I would definitely recommend giving Yunomi Takeo Autumn Houjicha and Tealet Houjicha a try.
What are your favorite teas to drink in the fall? Let me know in the comments!