Tea

Fall: The Best Teas for the Season

September 01, 2011 by Sarah Trench

Autumn reds and golds, reminiscent of a fine cup of tea

Fall is the time when tea's myriad of colors seem most at home in the world, like a windy woodsy New England road, vibrant in its Technicolor glory. Whether fall means back to school, the start of football season, or just time to prep for the holidays and colder months ahead, for us in the tea world, fall is the season we look forward to most. Tea sales climb as customers take renewed interest in our favorite beverage. Here are some recommendations for your menu this fall to dazzle and delight.

There are few things I enjoy more than a stroll through my local farmers' market, steaming hot cup in hand, taking in the splendor of this beautiful time of year. All things earthy and toasty appeal to me now:

Hojicha- this Japanese green tea is roasted over charcoal producing a smooth and nutty cup that is notably lower in caffeine. This tea is the result of ingenuity; legend has it that a Japanese merchant invented it to extend the lifespan of a particularly bountiful harvest.

Keemun- this prized Chinese black tea is both rich and pure, with mineral flinty notes and sultry earth and smoke in its pretty amber red liquor.

Twilight Ti Kuan Yin- brand new this season at Adagio Teas, this roasted version of the beloved Fujian oolong is the result of an extremely long process- twelve distinct steps are noted in its creation. Wildflower honey meets roasted nuts for an ethereal tea experience. My new favorite!

Toasted Mate- this toasted variety of the popular herbal tea, Yerba Mate, makes an invigorating full-bodied chicory tinged cup that takes milk and sweetener exceptionally well. The roasting process is similar to that of coffee, and provides an energizing yet jitter-free alternative.

Rooibos- this South African beauty is well suited for all seasons, though each time I take in the grandeur of an autumn-red Maple, its nectar sweet flavor wafts through my mind. The caffeine-free infusion is alleged to be exceptionally rich in antioxidants, and in Japan is known as Long Life Tea.

Lapsang Souchong- I'd be remiss to leave off this classic Chinese black, expertly smoked over pine needles. Layers upon layers of sweet, crisp flavor reveal themselves in this golden coppery cup. Lapsang is not for the faint of heart, but if you find one of good quality, it is a treat and an experience to enjoy this infamous tea.

If seasonal and holiday flavors appeal to you, these nostalgic blends will surely spark your creativity and whet your guests' appetites. Try them "latte" style with some frothed milk and a sprinkling of cinnamon and sugar. Sugar and spice makes everything nice!

Chai:

Masala Chai

Flavored Blacks:

Oriental Spice

Flavored Greens:

Vanilla Green

Rooibos, Honeybush, Mate, and Herbals:

Blood Orange

There are, of course, a plethora of other teas you might explore this fall. If we can do anything to help guide you, please be in touch. Otherwise, bundle up, get comfortable, and enjoy a beautiful September!