Category: Loose leaf tea

Hindu culture reveres many animals, including the colourful peacock, which India designated as its national bird in 1963. We are excited to be creating a large peacock structure as a centrepiece for this year’s Festival of Lights celebration in Aylesbury! So, let’s find out a little more about this impressive bird. Why did India select the peacock to represent the country? The selection criteria were a bird which: Featured prominently in Indian culture Reflected the core values of the nation Was native and widespread Recognised easily The peacock, Pavo cristatus, known as a Mayura in India, qualifies in every category. Many regard it as a sacred bird, symbolizing divine grace, ornate beauty, and protection. Peacocks remain widespread, in part thanks to the 1972 Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act. So, on a trip to rural areas of India, you are likely to hear the peacock’s distinctive cry. Then, you’ll see them wandering freely through the tea estates, open land, and rice paddies. They are usually on the hunt for ground vegetation and insects to eat. Cultural Representations of Peacocks In Hindu tradition, peacocks connect to several gods. Brahma, the God of Creation, often appears as a peacock, while Krishna often wears a peacock feather in his turban. Lakshmi, Goddess of Prosperity, and Saraswati, Goddess of Knowledge, also share a link with the birds. As such, peacocks symbolize wealth and wisdom. In the Maria and Warli tribes, peacock feathers often feature in funeral rites. This is because of a belief that the birds can transcend time and help the deceased person’s soul escape the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Peacocks in Indian Art Long before India named the peacock its national bird, people revered it. As such, they feature in all kinds of Indian art. Harappan Pottery – the Indus Valley civilisation produced practical, kiln-fired terracotta pots. Craftspeople typically decorated these with geometric and stylised images using red slip and black paint. They widely used a stylised peacock as a motif on this handcrafted pottery. Carved wood reliefs – decorative wooden carvings have long been used to adorn places of worship in India. You can still find historic examples at Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan and Kolaramma Temple in Kolar. These have been dated back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Paintings – If you visit Jaipur, visit the Peacock Gate at the City Palace. Its intricate design in rich and splendid colours creates an ornate entrance. Peacocks often feature in artworks, including the painted and gold leaf images of Tanjore Art. Musical Instruments – the Mayuri Veena or Taus is a stringed instrument crafted in Northern India. It is embedded in Sikh traditions and was popular in 19th-century courts. The bird's tail forms the instrument's neck, and the strings stretch along it. The hollow body and head of the peacock form a resonator, which helps the sound to carry. Printed & Embroidered Textiles – stylised peacocks are depicted in many traditional textile styles. These include Banarasi brocades, Chikankari white embroidery, and Kalamkari block prints.  See Our Peacock! Now you know a little more about the prominence of peacocks in Indian life, culture, and art, why not come to see our colourful creation at this year’s Festival of Lights in Aylesbury? This is just one of the many delights at our family-friendly event! Book now and join us on Sunday 27 September.

A friend or relative arrives at the doorstep. Maybe they have a beaming smile and are desperate to tell you their exciting news. They might be silent, with tears brimming in their eyes. Or they could look exhausted. Whatever their mood, you’ll likely say, “I’ll put the kettle on!” Tea Sparks Conversations On hearing ‘I’ll put the kettle on’, your visitor feels instantly welcome. A few minutes later, they have a warm mug of tea in hand, and everyone relaxes. Tea sparks conversation, and somehow allows us to take time to pause, listen and share. Isn’t it interesting that an exchange over tea is often when we are most present?  Offering tea has long been a kind gesture to guests, and not just in Britain. It is a global gesture of hospitality, which is recognised even where there are language barriers.  In Morocco, it would be the height of rudeness not to pour a glass of green mint tea for visitors, or for them to decline the beverage. In India, each household combines a special blend of masala spices and black tea. If you step into someone’s home, you’ll be offered chai. When the tea is served, the conversation begins. As such, this simple drink represents togetherness. The time and attention we give to a tea and conversation strengthens our connection with others. Tea & Talk Event This concept of connection inspired me to organise a Tea & Talk event in July. I feel that we need to take or create every opportunity to bring people together. It was a delight to collaborate with our guest speakers, Paul Eccentric and Dr Padmesh Gupta, who shared stories and poems on the theme of ‘what we carry’. Their eloquent readings explored the evolution of fish to humans, life experiences that others don’t believe, and friendships that defy religious, cultural or geographical barriers. It really was tales of the unexpected, and all accompanied by tea and samosas. The floor was then opened to anyone who wanted to share a story, poem or thought. From considering our legacy in what we do, rather than the possessions we carry, to the shifts in power since we all started carrying devices in our pockets, I was amazed by the diverse interpretations. Let’s just say that powerful and thought-provoking words were spoken.  We were blessed with a warm, sunny evening, allowing conversations, readings, and tea tasting to take place in the garden. This created a relaxed, informal atmosphere. I’m now thinking about other tea and talk collaborations, so if this is something you’d be interested in discussing, get in touch!  We have planned a follow-up event for Friday 21 August. If you enjoy a bit of creativiTEA, you’ll love this! Find out more  Health Benefits of Tea & Conversation If you think that you don’t have time for a cuppa and chat, let me share the reasons why it makes good sense. Not only is it a lovely opportunity to catch up with friends or meet new people, but it is also great for our health.  Human connections are central to our feeling of belonging. When we make time for social interactions, it lowers our stress levels, builds our resilience, gives us a sense of purpose, and makes us feel well. Equally, tea contains flavonoids, antioxidants and L-theanine, all of which are beneficial to our health and well-being. They boost our immunity, lower blood pressure, and strengthen mental clarity. So, isn’t it time to enjoy a tea and talk with friends, family, or new connections? Who haven’t you seen for a while? That time shared with others has a positive impact on you and them. Rather than rushing to get on with the next thing, be curious. Ask questions, listen, and be open to another perspective. I truly believe it can be enriching.

Darjeeling is considered one of the finest loose leaf teas and is often referred to as the Champagne of teas. That’s quite a claim, so why is Darjeeling Tea special? Where is Darjeeling? Location is key to the quality of this product, so where is it? Darjeeling is a region in West Bengal, India. Lying on the western edge of the Himalayan Mountains, its steep terrain sits high above sea level, providing an amazing landscape. There are several reasons why it offers fantastic conditions for growing tea bushes.  Firstly, the sloped terraces hold mineral-rich and well-drained soil. The high altitude is protected from the intense heat in other parts of India. The area is often shrouded in mist, providing a constant source of moisture for tea bushes. The climate means that tea bushes grow slowly, taking longer to establish and bud, which results in flavoursome pickings. What’s more, it is not possible to continuously harvest the leaves. Therefore, there are only two harvests per year. The first flush of the freshest new buds is picked in Spring and the second flush in Summer. If you visit Darjeeling, you’ll see that the hillsides are filled with long-standing cultivations, alongside more recently planted tea gardens. Surrounding them are streams of flags, flapping in the breeze, a sign of the Buddhist culture of the region. How Darjeeling Tea is Processed The terrain cannot be worked by machines, so pickers have to scale the steep landscape and pluck the newest buds by hand. The whole leaves are processed using a traditional, orthodox method. That involves rolling the wilted leaves, gently oxidising and then drying. The tea is then sorted by filtering different-sized particles, with whole leaves commanding a premium price. Darjeeling is a black tea; however, it is oxidised for less time than other black teas. As a result, it delivers a golden colour and light aroma and flavour. The first flush is often described as fruity and floral, with a subtle muscatel sweetness. A deeper muscatel flavour and colour, with an underlying light astringency, are associated with the second flush. For the perfect cup of Darjeeling tea, it is advised to brew the leaves in water at 90° for 3-4 minutes before pouring. This allows time for the rolled leaves to unfurl and release their delicate flavours. Milk is to be avoided, but some people serve it with a slice of lemon. Why is Darjeeling Tea Compared to Champagne? One association between Darjeeling tea and Champagne is the complex and distinctive muscatel and floral notes. This gives both drinks an elegance that is appreciated when sipping. Secondly, like Champagne, Darjeeling tea is a product with Geographical Indication status. It has been recognised that the specific growing conditions are essential to the flavour, so the tea bushes have to be grown and processed within a specific area. When awarded GI status in 2024, this was India’s first origin-protected product. The limited harvest also offers exclusivity, with only around 1% of the tea produced in India being Darjeeling. Finally, the provenance and reputation for quality mean that both beverages command a higher price. Darjeeling & Afternoon Tea When Anna Maria Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, requested a pot with bread and cakes between lunch and dinner, she specified Darjeeling. This is believed to be the start of the British Afternoon Tea, which proved popular with her associates and is still widely enjoyed today. The delicate, fresh aromas and flavour of the tea pair perfectly with cucumber sandwiches, lemon cake and sweet pastries. In addition, Darjeeling contains polyphenols and l’theanine, which support digestion, good health, and enhanced focus. All good to know if you enjoy a regular afternoon tea with friends! Darjeeling in Spring At Holy Cow Tea, we stock first flush FTGFOP Darjeeling. Here, traditional and sustainable practices are followed to ensure the highest quality harvest each spring. It’s a popular option with our customers, so I often need to restock our supplies! Fortunately, I will be taking my second trip to Bengal in the Spring of 2027. My trip includes a stay at the Darjeeling Glenburn Tea Estate. I’ll get to learn more about the intricacies of this premium product, see the processes first-hand and sample the exquisite aromas and flavours in the most impressive of locations. I can’t wait to share the insights I gather into why Darjeeling Tea is so special!

Two things have sparked my curiosity about tea as a culinary ingredient — a wonderful afternoon at TWG in Malaysia, where every dish was crafted with tea, and a visit from nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche. While drinking tea is a delight, it also brings a subtle aroma and flavour to sweet and savoury dishes. So, in this article, I’d like to share some ways to cook with tea. Why Use Tea as a Culinary Ingredient? I spent a joyous May afternoon talking and tasting tea with nutritionist Jenny Tschiesche. As a renowned author of several Air Fryer and One Pot cookbooks, Jenny focuses on unprocessed healthy foods that taste great and fuel our bodies. In conversation, we touched on tea as a natural and nutrient-rich ingredient Her enthusiasm for the natural and nutrient rich qualities of tea got me wondering how those benefits could extend into cooking. Much as we all enjoy drinking tea, I’ve been curious about the uses of tea in cooking for a while. This year, I’ve been training as a Thermomix adviser, with the team in Aylesbury. This has had me exploring a wide range of recipes and has sparked an interest in the ingredients that add a depth of flavour to dishes. While my default is spices, tea has its place in elevating a meal. The benefits of adding tea to a recipe extend beyond the taste buds. It also introduces antioxidants, which protect the body, boost immunity, and support digestion. 3 Easy Ways to Use Tea as an Ingredient Add Tea to Your Liquids The easiest way to increase the health benefits of your meal is to replace water with green tea, such as Japanese Sencha, when cooking noodles, pasta, lentils, rice and other dried staples. This offers a subtle flavour, which works especially well with Thai and Japanese foods. Another option is to infuse loose leaf tea in the water, milk or oil that you use in your favourite recipes. Simply strain the leaves before adding the liquid. As such, tea can be part of almost any dish, from soups and sauces to cakes and ice cream. Last year, I supplied Masala Chai to an artisan gelato maker for a seasonal special, and the result was absolutely delicious! Soak, Marinade & Cure in Tea In Bara Brith, fruit cakes, and traditional tea loaves, soaking dried fruit in a black breakfast tea overnight is essential. This creates plump, juicy and flavoursome fruit and a rich, delicious cake. Talking of preparing ingredients in advance, tea leaves can be incorporated into marinades and rubs for tenderising and curing meat and fish. Using a smoky tea, such as Lapsang Suchong, creates a rich barbecue flavour. To cure salmon, mix a cup of loose leaf Jasmine & Lemon tea with half a cup of both sea salt and granulated sugar. Rub this evenly over a fillet of salmon, wrap in cling film, place a weight on top and leave in the fridge for 3 days. Then, slice thinly to enjoy in bagels, salads and bento boxes. I’ve also seen a recipe for a tea & honey drizzle cake. When you remove the sponge from the oven, you prick the surface with a cocktail stick. Then, spoon or brush a black tea sweetened with honey over the top, which soaks into the cake. I’ve yet to try it, but it sounds good! Grind Tea to Use As a Dry Ingredient Matcha is a well-renowned ground tea, where the fine powder is added as a dry ingredient to biscuits and pancakes. You can use a blender or mortar & Pestle to grind other loose leaf tea into powder form. Simply sieve before adding to your recipe to remove any larger pieces. As an example, a level teaspoon of Chic Lady Grey adds an extra dimension to lemon or shortbread biscuits. Experimenting with Tea as an Ingredient I’m keen to try out more ways of introducing tea in my cooking. I think it’s going to be a case of experimenting with different flavour combinations, quantities, and infusion times to see what works. I’m sure there are some delicious options for my fruity tisanes, too! If you’ve got a favourite tea recipe, please let me know!

Do you enjoy a cuppa with breakfast?  In the UK, tea with toast, cereal or a full English is commonplace, yet we rarely drink it with our dinner. This is quite different across Asia and the Middle East, where tea is widely consumed with food. One reason is that the tannins in tea are known to aid gut health and digestion. So, can my suggested tea pairings convince you to serve tea at mealtimes? Tea & Food Pairings I’ve recently delivered several talks on tea and food pairings. This included an event at the Thermomix Studio in Aylesbury. Here, I served my recommendations to accompany the food the team had prepared for the event. Spring Orchard Oolong with Coronation Chicken For an April event, my Spring Orchard blend seemed a natural choice. This combination of Chinese Tie Guan Yin Oolong with sweet pear pieces and subtle aromatic lavender is light and refreshing. Delicate in flavour, I recommended this as the ideal tea pairing for the quiche and coronation chicken on fresh bread prepared by the Thermomix team. Fruit Bouquet Tisane with Fresh Salad Not everyone likes tea or caffeinated drinks, so my hibiscus, apple and rose tisane was next in the tea tasting. This can be enjoyed hot or infused as a cold brew in the fridge overnight. The translucent red colour is delightful! The aroma and flavour of Fruit Bouquet have sweet and acidic notes, which work well with fresh and fruity foods. I’d recommended it as a tea pairing for the blueberry and white chocolate cake. It also proved a great accompaniment to a fresh pepper, broccoli, and pine nut salad that was whizzed up in a demonstration. Emporium Breakfast & Chocolate Brownies A more traditional tea is Emporium Breakfast, which blends premium quality Indian, Kenyan & Sri Lankan black teas for a rich, malty flavour. This stronger tea is well balanced with richer foods, including red meats and the baked chocolate brownies on offer. Cheese & Tea Pairings I’m always open to collaborations with food producers and makers. For example, I enjoyed a cheese and tea pairing evening at No.2 Pound Street. They offer an extensive selection of wonderful British cheeses, along with continental favourites, which are usually served with wine. Could a tea pairing work?  We discovered several winning combinations, including my Chic Lady Grey with a cave-aged Cheddar. In contrast, I’d suggest Bai Hao Yin Zhen, also known as Silver Needle Tea, balances the mild, nutty flavours of Comte or Emmental. I also enjoyed several fun evenings of tea pairing at Bread & Brew in Wendover.  “Wonderful to try different teas and pair with different foods, under Poonam’s expert guidance and the cosy atmosphere of Bread and Brew. She gently introduces new teas, their ingredients and was more than happy to answer our questions. Came away with a new understanding of what good tea tastes like, a reminder to spend more time on the ritual of tea, and the health benefits. Thank you.” Please get in touch if you are a food specialist who is interested in collaborating on a tea pairing. Green Tea & Asian Food Do you love Thai, Chinese, Japanese or other Asian foods? If so, have you paired them with green tea? This is a perfect combination for many reasons. Firstly, green teas have a fresh, astringent taste which balances the flavours of popular steamed and stir-fried dishes without overpowering them. Compounds in the tea cut through oils in the food to both aid digestion and cleanse the palate. Tea is also effective at naturally boosting your antioxidant intake and improving blood sugar control. Across Asia, green tea is served with meals. So, for an authentic experience, why not swap your usual beverage for a cup of Japanese Sencha? Alternatively, add the wow factor with a Jasmine Dragon Flower tea. Have I convinced you to try tea with your meals? If you visit my stall at an event, I’m happy to recommend food pairings for my bespoke tea blends.

Marvellous Moroccan Mint Tea Mint leaves are full of health benefits, and they make a wonderfully refreshing drink. In this article, we share the traditions of Moroccan mint tea and why it makes sense to enjoy a daily infusion. What’s so Special About Mint leaves? If you touch a mint leaf, it immediately releases its strong, clean aroma. Then, the taste leaves a cooling tingle in the mouth. For this reason, mint is the flavour of products used to freshen the breath, such as toothpaste and chewing gum. However, because mint leaves also have antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, they don’t simply freshen the breath. They also fight bacteria, which can cause oral infections that can cause bad breath. Mint leaves are high in Vitamin A, which is an essential nutrient for eye health and immunity. In addition, they have been used for centuries to relieve digestive problems. The menthol relaxes muscles in the digestive tract, which eases bloating, colic and symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. The strong aroma is also good for enlivening the senses, decongesting the nasal tract, clearing headaches, and enhancing mental performance. As such, mint tea has preventative and healing properties, while tasting great. Have I captured your interest? Let me tell you more! Drinking Mint Tea in Morocco There is a long tradition of drinking mint tea in Morocco, and if you ever visit, an offer of this beverage is a sign of welcome, friendship, and hospitality. Known locally as Touareg tea, it is poured from a height into tall glasses, which aerates the drink and is part of the ceremony. Guests are typically served first, and in a second round of pouring, the intensity of flavour increases. Moroccan mint tea is a blend of gunpowder green tea, mint leaves and sugar. It’s refreshing on a hot African day and warming in the evening. The antioxidants in the green tea further enhance the health benefits, while the caffeine adds an extra boost to mental alertness. Sharing a drink of mint tea is a social occasion, a time to pause the day, reflect and enjoy a shared experience. Food Pairings with Mint Tea I’ve recently been hosting a variety of food and tea pairing workshops. With that in mind, let’s look at what works well with mint tea. Mint is widely used in condiments that accompany rich, spicy or fatty foods. For example, you might add mint sauce to your Lamb roast dinner, or enjoy mint raita with a curry. In Morocco, mint tea is often served with meat or cheese-filled filo pastries. It also makes the perfect accompaniment to delightful treats, including Fekkas twice-baked honey biscuits, Baghrir honey-drenched pancakes, and stuffed dates. As the strength of mint tea lingers on the palate, it can alter the flavour of other foods. For this reason, you may choose to sip it after the meal. Then, it can play its part in aiding digestion. Our Moroccan Mint Tea Our Mystic Moroccan mint tea has always proved a popular choice in tea tastings. Inspired by tradition, we blend subtly smoky Chinese Pinhead Gunpowder Green Tea with Peppermint, Red Peppercorns & Sunflower Petals. The aroma and flavour are released as soon as the tea is immersed in hot water. However, we recommend letting it infuse for 3 minutes before tasting. Our tea is unsweetened, so we leave it up to you to decide whether or not to add sugar. For a twist, we asked a mixologist to create a cocktail with it. He blended our mint tea withwhisky, bourbon and sugar to create a fragrant Mint Julep, which is wonderful for spring and summer parties. Maybe you’d prefer a mojito, mixing our mint tea with lime juice, white rum, sugar and ice. A Glass a Day Enjoying a daily glass or mug of Moroccan mint tea is an effective way to beat the mid-afternoon slump, cut through rich foods and gain the health benefits. What’s more, it has a marvellous and enduring taste. Isn’t it time to give it a try?

Discover Single Origin Tea In addition to our bespoke blends, Holy Cow Tea has an extensive range of premium single origin loose leaf tea. We call them straight teas because they come straight from the regional plantations in a pure form, ready for us to package. Like fine wine, coffee or chocolate, there is a reason why many people value single origin tea. Single Origin Versus Tea Blends Tea Blends Blending different ingredients opens up the opportunity to develop complex flavour combinations. It’s a sensory process, where taste profiles and aromas are carefully balanced to create new and exciting teas. I love the process and how subtle changes to the recipe can be transformative. The nation’s favourite, English Breakfast tea, is a blend. Our blend comprises Assam, Ceylon, and Kenyan teas, which produce a full-bodied, malty and caffeinated beverage. Ideal with milk and optional sugar, it is a great way to kickstart the day. Straight Teas However, there is a purity to single origin tea. The soil conditions, altitude and climate are unique to every plantation. Equally, each tea is picked and processed in different ways. As a result, every single origin tea has a defining flavour. The flavour profiles in an Indian Darjeeling or Chinese Yunnan simply can’t be replicated in other locations. What’s more, the timing of picking leads to seasonal specialities. This is where you notice terms like ‘first flush’, which indicate the early spring harvest for the freshest flavour. For tea connoisseurs, these are the joy of single origin tea. It’s why they value the leaves, straight from the plantation, with no added ingredients. 8 of the World’s Most Renowned Single Origin Teas The most renowned straight teas typically originate from long-established plantations. Chinese Tea In the case of Chinese Yunnan Dian Hong, it is believed that some of the ancient tea bushes date back several hundred years. Even the new bushes are 50 – 60 years old. However, records suggest that this region has been producing tea for over 1,000 years. That’s a lot of brews of this rich and sweet black tea! Proving that even from the same region, tea growing, harvesting, and processing can result in completely different flavours, Shou Pu-erh is also grown in Yunnan. However, this black tea is aged and fermented for a mature, earthy flavour. Drinking this tea is reputed to aid digestion and gut health. From aged tea leaves to the young buds. Baihao Yinzhen, also known as Silver Needle tea, is only harvested from newly emerging buds. These are left whole and rolled, so they slowly unfurl during infusion, to release the delicate flavour. If you added any other ingredient, it would overpower this refined white tea. Indian Tea Darjeeling is described as the champagne of tea. It grows in the misty, high altitudes of the Himalayan mountains, where conditions are cool and moist, with a high UV exposure. These conditions produce tea with a unique fruity flavour that is described as muscatel. The tea is graded by first and second flushes, depending on when the leaves are harvested. Another renowned Indian tea is Assam. Assam Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe (TGFOP) is the premium-grade from India's Brahmaputra Valley. It’s a full-bodied, malty black tea that is delicious with milk. This straight tea can hold its own when blended with other ingredients, so it is widely used as the base tea for spiced masala chai. Japanese Tea Now to Japanese Gyokuro, known as the whisky of tea. To achieve this widely prized green tea, there’s a meticulous cultivation process, which includes shading the leaves to minimise natural oxidation. This results in a refreshing aroma, pale yellow infusion and umami, vegetal flavour. Sencha is Japan’s most popular green tea, with a fresh, herbaceous and subtle salty flavour. The flat green leaves are steamed after harvesting to lock in antioxidants, colour and flavour. The leaves resemble the needles of a pine tree. While most tea is created by infusing leaves in water, Matcha is a fine powdered form of quality green tea. Traditionally, this is whisked into water to form a vivid green, frothy drink with a grassy flavour. Its popularity as a rich antioxidant has peaked in recent years, and the powder is now added to a full range of other foods and drinks. 3 Other Notable Tea Growing Regions Ceylon tea is grown in Sri Lanka and is noted for its refreshing citrus flavour. Taiwan is known for its Oolong teas, grown in the high mountains, including Ali Shan. Kenya is a major tea producer, and Purple tea is unique to this country. Benefits of Buying Single Origin Tea These are just a sample of the fantastic range of single origin teas. Each has a distinct flavour, which you can learn to appreciate in the same way as a fine wine. In doing so, you learn about the growing conditions and harvesting techniques which bring such variety to this beverage. Another benefit of straight tea is traceability. When we know where the tea was grown, tea specialists, like us, can check the credentials and ensure ethical sourcing. This is important for the independent plantation owners, the workers and the long-term sustainability of the industry. For me, there is the added interest in discovering the regional traditions and cultural rituals that tie into tea growing, harvesting and drinking. Tea remains part of many traditional ceremonies, and I never tire of learning more about these. I’m always keen to share my knowledge if you have any questions about the Holy Cow straight tea range.

A red rose is the universally recognised flower of love. As such, Valentine's Day sees peak sales of these crimson blooms. With bouquets on sale in every florist, supermarket and convenience store, it’s easy to pick up a bunch to gift. However, it can be more thoughtful to consider a twist on this tradition. If the one you adore is a tea lover, a rose tisane could offer a more meaningful Valentine’s Gift. Where Did The Tradition of Giving Roses on Valentine’s Day Originate From?  Historical references suggest that roses were desirable in Ancient Greece and Rome, due to their beautiful scent and rich colour. However, the connection with red blooms for Valentine’s Day was certainly cemented in the Victorian era, when floriography was all the rage.  Floriography offered a way to express feelings and intentions in a formal society using flowers. It operated as a subtle code when people were often restricted in conversation. The species of flower and the colour were all assigned a meaning, so gifting a bouquet was a complicated business. In floriography, red roses indicated desire, while red tulips stood for true love. Meanwhile, a bunch of yellow roses expressed friendship, and pink petals represented gratitude, so they were more likely to be given as a thank you. They may not have been what someone was hoping to receive on Valentine’s Day. However, they are preferable to a combination of red and white flowers, which was seen as a foreteller of death. Why Rose Tisane is the Perfect Gift for Tea Lovers Flowers are beautiful, yet these days it takes little thought to give a bunch of red roses. What’s more, in little more than a week, they will have wilted. So, we’d like to suggest a great alternative. If the love of your life enjoys relaxing with a cup of tea, you can express your affections with a rose tisane. Tisanes are often called herbal teas, yet they contain no tea. Instead, they are a blend of plants that provide a warm, caffeine-free drink that aids well-being. The properties that scented rose petals bring to a tisane include an appealing appearance, delicate sweetness and subtle floral aromas. Rose petals are naturally rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which are beneficial for skin health and digestion. In addition, rose is soothing and mood-enhancing. Rose tea has a rich history in Persia, where the gardens, such as the exquisite Bāq e Eram in Iran, were often abundant with roses. The petals were handpicked and used to produce rose water for cooking and bathing, as well as being made into tisanes. Drinking rose infusions was a sign of refined luxury. Our English Garden & Something Sweet Tisanes We use quality rose petals in our English Garden tisane. The fragrant petals are blended with chamomile buds and mallow flowers for a drink that transports you to a peaceful English garden on a summer’s day.  Another option is Something Sweet, which blends premium South African rooibos leaves, rose petals, hibiscus and rosehip with pieces of strawberry and apple for a rich red tisane with a deliciously fruity flavour. Simply infuse a teaspoon of either loose leaf tea in water that is just off the boil for 3 minutes for a delightful brew. Our tisanes are sold in plastic-free, compostable bags, or you may be interested in a gift set. There is a large caddy gift set, which includes a measuring spoon, strainer and gold container to keep the tisane fresh. Alternatively, we offer a caffeine-free gift set with three small caddies containing South African Summer and two tisanes of your choice, with a strainer. These are meaningful gifts that last longer than a bunch of flowers and offer a more original angle on gifting roses for Valentine’s Day. Don’t leave it until the last minute! You can place your order online or visit us at the Woburn Sands or Woburn Village market this weekend.

Celebrity endorsement and social media posts about the health benefits have seen a rapid rise in matcha tea. It’s been a popular choice for customers when we’re selling at food markets. What’s more, the vivid green powder is making its way into all manner of recipes. So, let’s explore this special tea and why matcha is so popular. Is Matcha a New Tea? Matcha may have taken the world by storm in recent years, yet it is not a new tea. Its rich heritage originated in China around 1,000 years ago. Two decades later, the tencha tea plants were introduced to Japan.  It soon became embedded in spiritualism, as Buddhist monks would drink matcha as part of their enlightening meditations. Equally, it was said that drinking matcha was an important ritual for Samurai, helping them mentally and physically prepare to defend land and property. However, the health benefits made it popular across the Japanese population. How is Matcha Different to Green Tea? On picked, all green tea is kept out of sunlight to prevent oxidation; that’s what differentiates it from black tea. This helps to retain higher levels of polyphenols, which results in an antioxidant-rich drink. This helps to boost immunity and reduce the impact of stress on the body. In addition, the caffeine and L-theanine support mental clarity and focus. For matcha, the tencha leaves are shaded for three weeks before harvesting. This increases the retention of the beneficial compounds. Then, only the finest buds are picked, and these are hand-ground into a fine powder using stone mills. As a result, the process is labour-intensive and time-consuming. However, this is how matcha achieves the delicate, verdant, grassy, umami flavour. For green tea, the leaves are infused in water to release their flavour and aroma, then removed. Yet, with matcha, the powder is whisked into hot water, so you consume the whole leaf. How do you Make Matcha? The traditional method of making matcha requires a bamboo whisk, called a chasen, and a small bowl. Over time, the bowl and whisk gradually take on the flavour of the matcha. Start by soaking the whisk in the bowl, filled with warm water for 30 seconds. This softens the bamboo in preparation for whisking. Tip the water away before adding half a teaspoon of matcha to the bowl. Pour 80°c water on the side of the bowl, to filter into the powder. Then it is time to blend.  The technique used in Japan is to pass the whisk from right to left and top to bottom, rather than in a circular movement. This method is said to produce a fine foam and evenly release the compounds. Around 50 strokes are recommended to create a good foam, so this isn’t a process to be rushed. The result is a thick, green liquid of dissolved tea. Traditionally, drinking matcha is a calm experience. You respectfully nod to the tea and sip it slowly. It’s a mindful process, so notice the aroma, flavour, temperature and smooth texture. Remember to store matcha powder in an airtight and non-transparent container. This prevents oxidation, which causes bitterness and deterioration of the beneficial compounds. Can You Use Matcha in Cooking? As we’ve mentioned, matcha is a high-grade tea over which considerable care is taken. In Japanese culture, it is believed that the delicate flavours and aromas are only fully savoured when drinking in the pure tea form. Equally, the slow and considered preparation and sipping helps to calm the body and mind, which elevates the health benefits. It has become popular to use matcha in cooking. As a result, there are many matcha recipes, from creamy lattes and green smoothies, to biscuits, pancakes and muffins. These mix the matcha with other ingredients, often disguising the flavour, while promoting the health benefits.  However, mixing this specialist tea with sugar, cream, butter and more is not best for your health. What’s more, cooking with matcha can diminish the beneficial compounds. Also, downing a matcha cookie or latte as you dash to catch your train is far from embracing the calming ritual that helps the body and mind. What is Ceremonial Grade Matcha? The premium matcha is referred to as ceremonial grade. This typically uses the first and finest tencha buds from the Kyoto region of Japan, which are prepared according to traditional practices. We sell this premium Ceremonial Grade Matcha online, or at our regular artisan and seasonal markets. If you want to cook with matcha, ceremonial grade is an expensive choice. Instead, we’d recommend culinary-grade matcha, which is ground from leaves, rather than buds. The result is a stronger and more bitter flavour, which works well with other ingredients. As an alternative, you may wish to grind other lower-cost and lower-grade green tea into powder form. This will still deliver the desired earthy flavour and antioxidants to a dish. If you’d like to know more about matcha, speak to Poonam or Chaya at an upcoming event!

Are you ready to delight the tea lovers in your family? We’ve compiled a tea gift guide to help you discover the perfect pressie for those who can always be found with a cuppa in their hand.  Let’s be honest, it is hard to beat a hot brew on a cold winter’s day. So, our premium loose leaf blends, tea accessories and experiences are a super way to bring a warm smile to the face of your family and friends. They also offer a stylish corporate offering. So, let us help you find the ideal tea gift for everyone! A Selection of Festive Tea Gift Boxes We’re a nation of tea lovers, yet most of us stick to black tea. However, you’d be surprised by the number of different varieties, aromas and flavours that are enjoyed across the world. With our gift boxes, you can transport your friends and family to other parts of the world with our ethically sourced, bespoke blends. Festive Gift Box - a small caddy of Emporium Breakfast tea, which combines malty Indian Assam with earthy black teas from Kenya and golden Sri Lankan leaves to give a rich dark amber liquor. Plus, your choice of two other Holy Cow tea blends presented in caddies, and an infuser for easy brewing for £35. Caffeine-Free Gift Box for those who favour a tisane infusion, we offer a small caddy of South African Summer. Sweet honey-like South African rooibos bronze shards with bright yellow petals. Incredibly smooth, full-bodied, a rich caffeine-free warming drink. Plus, your choice of two other Holy Cow tea blends presented in caddies, and an infuser for easy brewing for £35. Sample Jar Selection – your choice of three tea Holy Cow tea blends presented in small, wooden lid glass jars with an infuser for easy brewing for £32. Large Caddie Gift Box containing a gold storage tea caddy, your chosen Holy Cow tea blend, an infuser and measuring spoon. £37 Tea Accessory Gift Boxes It was once commonplace to make a pot of tea, and we’d love to see the return of this tradition. Teabags are convenient, yet the quality of the brew is inferior to the flavours and aromas that you get from premium loose leaves. With this in mind, you may wish to gift tea accessories to equip your recipient with everything they need for a perfect infusion.  Glass Teapot Gift Box – A glass teapot is the perfect way to appreciate the colour of our bespoke blends. This set features a wooden serving tray, sand timer, measuring spoon and a small, gold caddie containing your choice of Holy Cow tea blend for £45. Porcelain Tea Set Gift Box – A traditional blue & white teapot with two matching cups, presented with a wooden serving tray, sand timer, measuring spoon and a small gold caddie containing your choice of Holy Cow tea blend for £51. We can deliver tea gift sets to you for wrapping or direct to your lucky recipient to place under their tree. Please note: to ensure your gifts are delivered in time, the deadline for Christmas orders is Monday 15 December. Tea-themed Stocking Fillers & Secret Santa Gifts Are you seeking out a token gift for Secret Santa or a stocking filler? There may be a price limit, but that doesn’t mean that you have to buy a cheap gimmick! Why not give something meaningful to your tea-loving colleague or friend? Specialist tea gifts under £10 Small sample jar of loose leaf tea - £8  Small gold caddy of loose leaf tea - £9 (3 for £25.50 if you include one Emporium Breakfast) Tea measuring Spoon - £7.50 Infuser to fit most mugs or cups - £10 Specialist tea gifts under £25 Large gold caddy filled with your choice of loose leaf tea - £22  Glass infuser cup, ideal for one -  £18.50  Gift a Tea Subscription or Experience The easy way to extend the excitement of receiving a specialist tea beyond Christmas morning! You can gift your favourite tea lover with a monthly tea subscription, delivered direct to their door. Our tea subscriptions are priced at £10 per 100g + £5 delivery per month. So, a monthly gift of 200g of their favourite tea would cost £25 a month. It’s over to you to select the number of months that you wish to gift. If you decide on a 12-month subscription, we’ll provide two months of tea for free! Annual Subscription (including 2 Months Free and P&P charges): 100g: £160  150g: £210 200g: £260 Follow this link to sign up for a tea subscription! Alternatively, we can provide vouchers for an exclusive tea experience with tea sommelier Poonam Gupta in 2026. Guests are invited to join Poonam in her Buckinghamshire garden room to learn more about the culture, heritage, and traditions of tea, while sampling a selection of blends. Choose from black tea, green tea, chai masala or tisanes for just £50 per person. The maximum group size is 4. Tea Lover Gift Ideas From stocking fillers to annual tea subscriptions, we offer a wide range of options to help you find the ideal gift for the tea lovers in your life. What’s more, there is no need to battle with the crowds to find an original present, so enjoy browsing and shopping!