Photo: The Kettle Shed Tea Company |
Country of Origin: not listed
Leaf Appearance: small, dark
Ingredients: black tea, flavoring
Steep time: 3 minutes
Water Temperature: 212 degrees
Preparation Method: ceramic teacup and mesh infuser
Liquor: deep reddish brown
The Kettle Shed: Tea Company is a “new to me” company based out of the UK. I was immediately drawn to Zoe Nixon’s story and enthusiasm for tea. In addition to selling online they also have an adorable booth at the Chiswick Food and Drink Market at Dukes Meadow. As many of you know, I have a contentious relationship with Earl Grey. The aroma of the dry leaves wasn’t super strong when I opened my tin of this tea so I was optimistic. The taste was rich and earthy with just a touch of tongue tingling citrus. It wasn’t overdone at all and I was relieved to find that it did not have the cutting acidity that I am always trying to avoid. There was a bold astringency in the finish but it never crossed the line into unpleasantness. The price of this blend is very reasonable, especially for the quality. You could use milk and sugar if you really wanted to but it was delicious all on its own. I was very impressed and now I’m really excited to try some of their other selections. I have a Korean green tea and ginger herbal blend waiting in line to be reviewed.
P.S. I want to buy all of the vintage china that they sell on their site!
You can find out more about this tea here.