By Danielle Modica | December 5, 2022
Welcome to the second edition of Tea Time! Tea Time with Danielle 2: Electric Boogaloo, if you will. In this edition, I’ll be discussing two new teas I’ve recently tried - Saratoga Tea & Honey Company’s “Strawberry Fields” and Trader Joe’s “Blood Orange Rooibos.” Both very different, one a loose white tea blend and the other a bagged herbal, but tasty and no-frill sippers all the same.
Blood Orange Rooibos Herbal Tea Blend steeping in a UAlbany logo mug
Photo Credit: Danielle Modica / The ASP
Strawberry Fields - Saratoga Tea Company: I came across this tea during my birthday-day trip to Saratoga Springs. During our walk downtown, I couldn’t pass up splurging on a new local tea flavor. Inside, the store is neatly sectioned by tea type. I found myself gravitating to the scented section (I’m a sucker for a good smelling blend). The name “Strawberry Fields” caught my attention, partially because of The Beatles reference, but also the scent which reeled me in. Described as being “fragrant and bright” with hints of pineapple, lemongrass, raspberry, cherry, sunflowers, rhubarb and more, I just had to try it for myself.
Outside and inside of the Strawberry Fields bag, showcasing the loose tea blend inside.
Photo Credit: Danielle Modica / The ASP
The two ounce bag of loose tea cost $14.00, decently priced for a premium tea shop in a prime location. After trying it a few separate times, the delicate flavor has grown on me. At first, the excitement of such a pretty tea came over me and I was a bit disappointed by the lack of vibrant flavor. I tried to follow the directions as best I could, using the correct measurements and steep time. Then again, I can’t expect the same vibrancy of a processed Lipton tea in a more natural, homemade blend.
The raspberry is the most prominent flavor, the other notes seem to add to the herbal background. This tea is not bitter and not overly sweet. I usually like my teas plain, but adding a teaspoon of raw or wildflower honey is a nice addition.
Organic Blood Orange Rooibos - Trader Joe’s: as my fridge stock begins to dwindle, that can mean only one thing. A Trader Joe’s trip! Though I usually stick to my meal staples, with the semester coming to an end I gave myself a little more wiggle room. Thinking I’d just pick up another box of Ginger Turmeric, I saw a brightly colored orange box I’ve never seen before. The blend boasts a use of rooibos, which as mentioned in the last edition, is a rare South African leafy plant said to have health compounds that fight against certain illnesses. I decided to give it a try, and don’t regret my decision.
Three different Trader Joe’s teas, all with the same packaging style (aesthetically pleasing!)
Photo Credit: Danielle Modica / The ASP
At 20 bags for $2.79 at the Wolf Road location, this tea is a no brainer to try out if you’re a fan of TJ’s. Though not as bold as Ginger Turmeric, it is just as tangy and smooth. Zesty orange flavors are prominent in this blend and it’s certainly been added to my daily drinker rotation.
I would highly recommend visiting Saratoga Tea & Honey if passing through Saratoga Springs. Their selection is expansive, and the employees are knowledgeable. (Not sponsored, but who doesn’t want to support a local business?) See you next time for another edition!
Commentaires