Happy Mug Coffee

I just finished my second sipdown of this tea. I really like it but I have to say I don’t think this tea is for everyone. When I open the bag the dominant aroma is the ginger. That’s also the dominant flavor when I take my first sip. As it cools down a bit, the currant flavor comes into play as well as other sweet, fruity flavors and a pepperiness that maybe the ginger. I would have to say that my overwhelming experience of this tea is easily described as hot & spicy. However it’s not a Sharp hot like one would experience with a red hot candy but more of a warming heat reminiscent of getting warm in front of a fire or a beautifully balanced spicy curry.

As I said in the beginning I think this is a tea that would appeal to anyone who likes that kind of a flavor profile but I doubt it’s for everyone.

I added a tablespoon of leaves to 16 oz of water brought to about 205°. I steeped it approximately 3 to 4 minutes, then I added some half & half and sweetener. This is definitely the kind of tea whose flavor develops more as it cools down a bit so I recommend letting it sit for a few minutes before taking a sip. Having said all of this, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this tea

I found this is very interesting tea. It definitely has a subtle chocolate flavor. At first, I thought the chocolate flavor was weak, but then I realized it’s supposed to be milk chocolate not dark chocolate. The orange flavor smells so juicy when you open the bag. It doesn’t quite maintain that juicy flavor when brewed into a tea, but it is still a pleasant, noticeable addition.

As I’m starting to do with any of my flavored teas, I boil the water to approximately 200° and let it steep for 3 to 4 minutes. Then I added a touch of sweetener and some half & half and let it cool a little before drinking. The puerh base added something deeper than I’m used to but it was enjoyable. It did remind me a bit of those chocolate oranges.

I’m glad I tried this tea and was pleasantly surprised by its flavor but, to be honest, it probably isn’t something I’ll buy again once I finish this batch.

Another old tea box sample. This one tasted pretty good when I made it yesterday, though it got a little murky overnight. The flavor is lightly orange with a tiny bit of spice. Definitely not one of the bolder orange spice teas I’ve had. I find they’re usually better on a black base. It’s all right, but not super special. I’m sure it was much better fresh.