Organic China Breakfast (Rishi Tea)

When we think of breakfast teas, we’re most commonly thinking about some form of CTC (cut, tear, curl) processed black tea. These are those small grained black pellets we’re used to seeing with English and Irish Breakfast teas as well as with traditionally prepared Indian Chai teas. But this tea from Rishi Tea is different.

There’s some measure of happiness in drinking a breakfast tea in the morning. It calmly awakens us from our slumber and helps us begin preparing for the days’ activities. Ultimately breakfast teas, with their more astringent, puckery and downright strong tendencies carry a peculiar weight in the tea world.

This tea from Rishi Tea is very pretty to look at. It’s leaves are curled and twisted, brown-black and golden but with no down powder as would be expected from a tea such as a Hao Ya A or its ilk.Once steeped, the liquor produced is a copper-gold which I find consistently appealing.

The aroma of the loose leaves is light and fresh. Heavy notes of hay with hints of grass and coal are notable if your palette is listening for them. The brewed aroma is light and honeyed with hints of Assam-ish obsequiousness.

The flavors on the palette move quickly. Hints of apple with stone fruits such as peaches is prevalent with this teas’ profile.

The liquor is smooth and not altogether that astringent or bold. It’s unusual for a breakfast tea, but something I think sets this one apart from the rest.

Fans of Darjeelings, Nilgiris and Ceylons are likely to enjoy this tea.