I haven’t quite made up my mind on whether I like jasmine or not. When I think I do, I try something else that includes jasmine and then I wonder if I actually don’t. I was hesitant to try this Jasmine Tea Blend by Simpson and Vail because of this. However, I persevered and decided to go ahead and try anyways.
Jasmine smells really sweet and tastes that way too. I did not even add sweetener to the steeped cup. I do like this, but being 100% honest I feel like I need another component here. Like, maybe, apple jasmine…or vanilla jasmine…or maybe like a jasmine tangerine or something. But, just plain jasmine tea isn’t really doing it for me. That said, this is definitely a rich jasmine flavor. Its sweet, its floral, and its smooth.
I think that this would be a great cup to drink if I want to unwind in the evening after a nice bath. The smell of jasmine is definitely relaxing. I just don’t know if i’m all for straight floral tea. Like I said, I am longing for a second component. I do think that this is yummy, though, and I think that someone who enjoys floral teas or jasmine teas would really love this. Even if you aren’t sure whether you like floral tea, this would definitely be a tea to try it out. It is authentic and yummy. I have had great luck with Simpson and Vail and I really always enjoy their blends.
Here’s the scoop!
Leaf Type: Black Tea
Where to Buy: Simpson and Vail
Description
The process of producing Jasmine tea started in China sometime during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) using tea blended with Jasmine blossoms. Jasmine teas are created using different types of tea: white, oolong and green predominantly. The base teas used are picked, depending on the type of tea, from March to June, but the Jasmine blossoms do not bloom until the summer. So the teas are picked, processed and stored until the fresh blossoms can be added. The blossoms are picked in the morning when the dew has dried off the closed buds. The buds are then kept cool during the day and then in the evening, when the buds begin to open, they are mixed into the tea. After at least 4 hours, when the tea has absorbed the jasmine scent, the blossoms are removed and fresh buds are added. For standard grade jasmine teas, the blossoms are added 2 or 3 times. For premium grade jasmine teas, this process may be repeated up to 8 times. Once the blenders are satisfied that the tea has the appropriate amount of aroma, the tea is re-fired to remove the moisture that was introduced to the tea by the fresh jasmine blossoms. Jasmine tea destined to remain in China usually has the spent blossoms removed from the finished product, but with teas that are exported, jasmine blossoms are sometimes left in the finished tea for their appearance.
Historically the aroma of Jasmine blossoms was recommended for stress relief, depression and relaxation. For us, the aroma of Jasmine infused teas does have a profound ability to calm and relax!
This Jasmine tea, from the Fujian Province in China, is a scented oolong tea with a delicious jasmine flavor. The medium size tea leaves brew to a pale ecru cup with a strong jasmine bouquet.
Learn even more about this tea and tea company here!
