Lavender Coconut

So, you might remember that I wrote a pretty harsh review of the last Yaupon Brothers tea I got in my Sips by box. Well, Yaupon Brothers contacted me and offered to let me try some of their other offerings. In fact, they weren’t sure why I got the particular blend that I did. I’m guessing that wasn’t the tea they’d like a yaupon beginner like me to try first. Anyway, they sent a very generous amount of tea! I’m really excited about that, particularly when it comes to this one. Lavender and coconut are both favorites.

Dry, this smells so wonderful. Notes of rich, vanilla-like coconut, clean lavender, and a sort of leafy, springtime aroma. I went back and smelled it a couple times last night. The green yaupon, unlike the smoky fire-roasted one I tried, smells much fresher and gentler. More like green tea. Though when brewed, it looks more like a black tea.

Upon first sip, I realize that this is definitely the tea I should have started with. It’s so smooth and creamy and floral. I find it both soothing and energizing at the same time. I know there is rooibos blended into this, but I can’t really taste it, and that’s perfectly ok with me. The yaupon is also mild, sort of hiding in the background and adding a note like crushed tree leaves or grass. I love the way the decadent coconut softens the lavender. There is something very elegant about this. Luxurious, I would say. I’m so happy they sent me the full size. This tea completely changes my mind about yaupon blends.