I buy loose tea from the local Whole Foods or Central Market. I realized recently that I spend between $5-10 per week on tea, in part because I make a lot of chilled tea. It is a little embarrassing to go through the checkout line and realize I have as many packages of tea as items of food. Well, that is why I am the Austin Tea Junkie. My true addiction came to light when I bought a water filter for the sink to improve the quality of my tea.
I brew my tea in the 16 oz and 32 oz IngenuiTea pots and then I decant them into my regular tea pots (current favorite -- 34 oz tea de chine bodum).
I typically drink black or oolong in the morning, oolong or green in the early afternoon, and chilled throughout the day. See, junkie.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Current Inventory -- Tisane/Herbal Tea
Ruby Sipper -- SerendipiTea
200º for 5 minutes
The aggressive notes of blood orange softened by the suggestive sweetness of pear create a fruit tisane that is full bodied & refreshing.
Peppermint -- Rishi Organic
212º for 4-5 minutes
Washington State produces our organic peppermint leaves. The U.S. Pacific Northwest variety of Peppermint is the most aromatic and potent form of this world-renowned mint variety. Its flavor and heady aroma is distinctive and calming. Peppermint is soothing to the digestive system and according to the ancients, promotes focus and clear thinking. It is said that mint also cures a hangover. Mint is prepared like a tea throughout the world.
Tangerine Ginger -- Rishi Organic
212º for 4-5 minutes
One of our original Rishi blends and top sellers, Tangerine Ginger has a complex array of sweet, spicy, tart and fruity flavors. Stimulating ginger root and adaptogenic wild harvested Schizandra berries are featured in this blend and expertly balanced with the natural essential oils of rare citrus fruits, succulent tangerines and rare herbs. Tangerine Ginger is a full-bodied and invigorating blend with a wonderful gourmet flavor and aroma.
Jamaica Rooibos -- Rishi Organic
195º 5-7 minutes
"Organic Hibiscus Sabdariffa is more commonly known as “Jamaica Flowers.” Rishi’s master tea blenders unify the wonderful flavors of Organic Jamaica Flowers with Organic Rooibos and Organic Honey Bush to create this robust, fruity and deep red infusion. Jamaica flowers are hand picked from a variety of hibiscus when the flowers of this shrubby plant become plump and juicy red. The dried and reddish-purple flowers are consumed in teas, wines and tonics throughout the world. Jamaica Flowers are also used as a natural red pigment in cosmetics and clothing. “Jamaica” is known to have a high content of vitamin C and other health beneficial properties. The tart and deep flavor of “Jamaica Flowers” blends well with the refreshing and healthful nature of Red Bush Rooibos. This original Rishi blend has a deep red infusion with a strong and fruity body that finishes with complex notes of mango, passion fruit and rare island spices. Great hot or iced. "
Serene -- Rishi
212º for 4-5 minutes
"A premium Chamomile blend made with 79% Organic ingredients, this calming caffeine-free blend contains select blossoms and herbs that impart relaxation and refreshment. Serene has a golden colored infusion with lofty notes of citrus, blossom nectar and French Lavender. Its sweet liquor has a honey-like character.
"
Peppermint Hibiscus Herbal
212º for 4-5 minutes
Purchased in bulk at Central Market.
Hibiscus Zinger
212º for 5 minutes
200º for 5 minutes
The aggressive notes of blood orange softened by the suggestive sweetness of pear create a fruit tisane that is full bodied & refreshing.
Peppermint -- Rishi Organic
212º for 4-5 minutes
Washington State produces our organic peppermint leaves. The U.S. Pacific Northwest variety of Peppermint is the most aromatic and potent form of this world-renowned mint variety. Its flavor and heady aroma is distinctive and calming. Peppermint is soothing to the digestive system and according to the ancients, promotes focus and clear thinking. It is said that mint also cures a hangover. Mint is prepared like a tea throughout the world.
Tangerine Ginger -- Rishi Organic
212º for 4-5 minutes
One of our original Rishi blends and top sellers, Tangerine Ginger has a complex array of sweet, spicy, tart and fruity flavors. Stimulating ginger root and adaptogenic wild harvested Schizandra berries are featured in this blend and expertly balanced with the natural essential oils of rare citrus fruits, succulent tangerines and rare herbs. Tangerine Ginger is a full-bodied and invigorating blend with a wonderful gourmet flavor and aroma.
Jamaica Rooibos -- Rishi Organic
195º 5-7 minutes
"Organic Hibiscus Sabdariffa is more commonly known as “Jamaica Flowers.” Rishi’s master tea blenders unify the wonderful flavors of Organic Jamaica Flowers with Organic Rooibos and Organic Honey Bush to create this robust, fruity and deep red infusion. Jamaica flowers are hand picked from a variety of hibiscus when the flowers of this shrubby plant become plump and juicy red. The dried and reddish-purple flowers are consumed in teas, wines and tonics throughout the world. Jamaica Flowers are also used as a natural red pigment in cosmetics and clothing. “Jamaica” is known to have a high content of vitamin C and other health beneficial properties. The tart and deep flavor of “Jamaica Flowers” blends well with the refreshing and healthful nature of Red Bush Rooibos. This original Rishi blend has a deep red infusion with a strong and fruity body that finishes with complex notes of mango, passion fruit and rare island spices. Great hot or iced. "
Serene -- Rishi
212º for 4-5 minutes
"A premium Chamomile blend made with 79% Organic ingredients, this calming caffeine-free blend contains select blossoms and herbs that impart relaxation and refreshment. Serene has a golden colored infusion with lofty notes of citrus, blossom nectar and French Lavender. Its sweet liquor has a honey-like character.
"
Peppermint Hibiscus Herbal
212º for 4-5 minutes
Purchased in bulk at Central Market.
Hibiscus Zinger
212º for 5 minutes
Current Inventory -- Green Tea
Jasmine Pearl -- Rishi Organic
185º for 3 minutes
"Dragon Pearls “Long Xu” is a green tea that is harvested from northern Fujian’s “Da Hao” white tea bush varietal. Silvery tipped, spring harvested buds and tender leaf flushes are processed using technique borrowed from white tea and green tea production. The silvery buds are partially withered, lightly fired, wilted and baked to fix the quality and silvery-white appearance. Then the tea is moistened with light steaming until pliable so the pearls can be rolled into shape by hand, one at a time. 3–5 buds with an attached stem are twisted by hand and rolled into a pearl shape before they are baked to fix the smooth flavor and aroma. The process is labor intensive and each pearl is hand-rolled one at a time. Dragon Pearls yield a smooth body akin to white tea with the rich, semi-sweet flavor of roasted chestnut. Should be infused multiple times."
Pomegranate Green -- Republic of Tea
180º for 3 minutes
"The glistening crimson seeds of the pomegranate fruit are deliciously sweet and heavy with juice. Fresh and crisp china green tea creates an ideal base for this ruby-hued blend. Antioxidants are abundant in each cup... sip the day away because your body truly is a temple."
Decaffeinated Peoples Green -- Republic of Tea
180º for 3 minutes
"Decaffeinated Peoples Green Tea is refreshing with a subtle taste and health benefits. The true essence of this China green tea will energize harmony and spirit."
185º for 3 minutes
"Dragon Pearls “Long Xu” is a green tea that is harvested from northern Fujian’s “Da Hao” white tea bush varietal. Silvery tipped, spring harvested buds and tender leaf flushes are processed using technique borrowed from white tea and green tea production. The silvery buds are partially withered, lightly fired, wilted and baked to fix the quality and silvery-white appearance. Then the tea is moistened with light steaming until pliable so the pearls can be rolled into shape by hand, one at a time. 3–5 buds with an attached stem are twisted by hand and rolled into a pearl shape before they are baked to fix the smooth flavor and aroma. The process is labor intensive and each pearl is hand-rolled one at a time. Dragon Pearls yield a smooth body akin to white tea with the rich, semi-sweet flavor of roasted chestnut. Should be infused multiple times."
Pomegranate Green -- Republic of Tea
180º for 3 minutes
"The glistening crimson seeds of the pomegranate fruit are deliciously sweet and heavy with juice. Fresh and crisp china green tea creates an ideal base for this ruby-hued blend. Antioxidants are abundant in each cup... sip the day away because your body truly is a temple."
Decaffeinated Peoples Green -- Republic of Tea
180º for 3 minutes
"Decaffeinated Peoples Green Tea is refreshing with a subtle taste and health benefits. The true essence of this China green tea will energize harmony and spirit."
Current Inventory -- Oolong Tea
Citron Oolong -- Rishi Organic
195º for 3-4 minutes
Made with 80% Organic ingredients. A signature Rishi blend of high-grown jasmine scented oolong tea cured with rare blossoms, aromatic herbs and succulent citrus fruit designed to refresh and rejuvenate. Citron Oolong is one of our leading oolong teas.
Jade Oolong -- Rishi
195º for 3-4 minutes
"This lightly oxidized oolong tea from the mountainous region of Nantou, Taiwan, has a smooth golden green infusion enjoyed by green tea lovers. Its flowery aroma, brisk flavor, smooth body and fruity finish make this one of our favorite oolong. Always fresh, this is one of customer favorites. The prime lots of this tea are selected each spring and winter for us by our long-term grower in Nantou, Jade Oolong one of our consistent favorites from Taiwan."
Ti Kuan Yin -- Republic of Tea
195º for 3-4 minutes
"Strengthen The Spirit Tea Famous oolong from the Fujian province in China is known for its fresh, orchid flavor & clean finish. Large, iron-colored leaves can be infused many times over."
195º for 3-4 minutes
Made with 80% Organic ingredients. A signature Rishi blend of high-grown jasmine scented oolong tea cured with rare blossoms, aromatic herbs and succulent citrus fruit designed to refresh and rejuvenate. Citron Oolong is one of our leading oolong teas.
Jade Oolong -- Rishi
195º for 3-4 minutes
"This lightly oxidized oolong tea from the mountainous region of Nantou, Taiwan, has a smooth golden green infusion enjoyed by green tea lovers. Its flowery aroma, brisk flavor, smooth body and fruity finish make this one of our favorite oolong. Always fresh, this is one of customer favorites. The prime lots of this tea are selected each spring and winter for us by our long-term grower in Nantou, Jade Oolong one of our consistent favorites from Taiwan."
Ti Kuan Yin -- Republic of Tea
195º for 3-4 minutes
"Strengthen The Spirit Tea Famous oolong from the Fujian province in China is known for its fresh, orchid flavor & clean finish. Large, iron-colored leaves can be infused many times over."
Current Inventory -- Black Tea
Keemun Hao Ya -- Rishi
212º for 4-5 minutes
"Our keemun is the superior grade known as “hao ya” and is made by artisans from Qi Men Town according to the traditional method of manufacture. Its rich flavor is smooth with a deep burgundy infusion with notes of port wine and a tinge of fresh pine smoke."
Golden Yunnan -- Rishi Organic Fair Trade
212º for 4-5 minutes
"This certified organic black tea is harvested from Yunnan’s ancient tea trees. It has a deeply flavored infusion with a tinge of peppery spice, notes of chocolate, sweet raisin and a malty finish. Golden Yunnan has expertly fermented, even graded leaves and big golden buds. Its wonderfully full flavored and rich body is a treat for black tea lovers."
Earl Grey -- Rishi Organic
212º for 4 minutes
"Organic Earl Grey is our best selling black tea blend of bold flavored Yunnan Dian Hong harvested from antique tea trees infused with natural Bergamot citrus from Southern Italy. It is the perfect organic blend of America’s most popular tea and is frequently complimented as the best Earl Grey ever."
Masala Chai -- Rishi Organic Fair Trade
212º for 5 minutes
"A robust and full flavored black tea blended with our traditional Indian Masala spices. The bold flavor of our select shade grown black tea presents full notes of cardamom, ginger and clove that’s zesty and stimulating. Masala Chai should be brewed strong and served sweet with steamed milk and sugar."
212º for 4-5 minutes
"Our keemun is the superior grade known as “hao ya” and is made by artisans from Qi Men Town according to the traditional method of manufacture. Its rich flavor is smooth with a deep burgundy infusion with notes of port wine and a tinge of fresh pine smoke."
Golden Yunnan -- Rishi Organic Fair Trade
212º for 4-5 minutes
"This certified organic black tea is harvested from Yunnan’s ancient tea trees. It has a deeply flavored infusion with a tinge of peppery spice, notes of chocolate, sweet raisin and a malty finish. Golden Yunnan has expertly fermented, even graded leaves and big golden buds. Its wonderfully full flavored and rich body is a treat for black tea lovers."
Earl Grey -- Rishi Organic
212º for 4 minutes
"Organic Earl Grey is our best selling black tea blend of bold flavored Yunnan Dian Hong harvested from antique tea trees infused with natural Bergamot citrus from Southern Italy. It is the perfect organic blend of America’s most popular tea and is frequently complimented as the best Earl Grey ever."
Masala Chai -- Rishi Organic Fair Trade
212º for 5 minutes
"A robust and full flavored black tea blended with our traditional Indian Masala spices. The bold flavor of our select shade grown black tea presents full notes of cardamom, ginger and clove that’s zesty and stimulating. Masala Chai should be brewed strong and served sweet with steamed milk and sugar."
Chilled Tea and the Perfect "Iced" Tea
At any time, I have 4 different containers of unsweetened chilled tea in the fridge (2 caffeinated and 2 uncaffeinated).
I steep it at full strength and then add another 120-133% water (because it always tastes a bit too strong otherwise). Then I chill it overnight.
My favorites right now are:
I steep it at full strength and then add another 120-133% water (because it always tastes a bit too strong otherwise). Then I chill it overnight.
My favorites right now are:
- Rishi's Citron Green -- 2 tbs in 32 oz of 212 water for 5 minutes, then add 48-56 oz of water.
- Republic of Tea's Pomegranate Green -- 4 tsp in 32 oz of 180 water for 3 minutes, then add 32 oz of water.
- Peppermint Hibiscus Green Tea Blend: 4 tsp of Peppermint Hibiscus tea in 32 oz of 212 water for 4 minutes and 4 tsp of Republic of Tea's The People's Green Decaf in 32 oz of 180 water for 3 minutes, then combine and add 32 oz water.
- Blood Orange Green Tea Blend: 5 tsp of SerendipiTea's Ruby Sipper in 32 oz of 200 water for 5 minutes and and 4 tsp of Republic of Tea's The People's Green Decaf in 32 oz of 180 water for 3 minutes, then combine and add 32 oz water.
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