Tea Information:
Leaf Type: Black
Where to Buy: Mark T. Wendell
Company Description:
We are pleased to offer this uplifting, full-bodied blend of India black tea with masala, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla and cardamom. A traditional Indian offering that is often served with plenty of milk to create a delicious, spicy Chai.
Taster’s Review:
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again… I’m quite biased when it comes to masala chai blends. That being said, this is a delicious masala chai, and I’m really enjoying it.
Although the ingredient list for this tea seems somewhat simple compared to some other masala chai blends, it has a very nice balance of flavors. This skillful blend of cinnamon, ginger and cardamom is very much in harmony – it is not too spicy, it is not too hot from the cinnamon, it is not too peppery from the ginger, nor is it too zesty from the cardamom. Each of these ingredients is present and accounted for in the flavor presentation, and there is no power struggle to overwhelm the cup.
I suspect the addition of vanilla to this blend has something to do with this harmonious flavor. It has a very enjoyable smoothness to it – a hint of creamy sweetness. It, too, is not an overpowering flavor; rather, it is very subtle.
The black tea base is also noteworthy in this blend, it provides an even flavor and texture that is not too mellow – it has a pleasant briskness to it that offers a nice contrast to the warm spices and smooth vanilla taste.
I would recommend this to the tea drinker looking for a chai that is not overwhelmingly spicy. While I enjoyed my cup of this hot with just a little honey (come on, you’ve gotta have honey with your chai, right?) as my cup cooled I noticed that the flavors stood strong – making this an excellent choice for iced masala chai. I’ve also enjoyed this chai as a latte, and it’s so good! While the steamed milk does mute the spices slightly, the milk does bring out the vanilla and elevates this tea to a very creamy, decadent treat!
