Black Earl Grey and Jasmine Green Tea by Tea & Coffee | Teatico
Overview
A jasmine-scented green tea forms the backbone here, laid over with a black tea base that carries the classic bergamot lift of Earl Grey. The black tea itself is malty and bold; the jasmine green side is built the traditional way, with hand-picked green leaves layered against freshly blooming jasmine blossoms until the scent takes. Brewed, the two halves meet in the cup rather than fighting each other: bergamot and jasmine reach the nose first, the first sip runs bold and smooth with a citrus edge from the black tea, then the green tea's sweetness and light vegetal notes come through underneath. It finishes crisp and floral, with the jasmine lingering longest.
Tea & Coffee sources the component teas from a range of gardens and blends them by hand. It drinks well on its own and pairs naturally with light pastries — the malt and bergamot give it enough backbone to stand up to something sweet at the table.
For brewing, use water around 88°C (190°F) rather than a full boil, which would scald the green tea leaves. About a teaspoon of leaf per 8-ounce cup is a reasonable starting point, adjusted to taste. Steep for three to four minutes; longer than that and the tannins start to dominate, pushing the cup toward bitterness. Strain well before serving. It also holds up iced — double the leaf for the steep, then chill and pour over ice for a cold-weather-defying version of the same cup.
