| Czar Nicholas/Russian
Caravan |
|
| Country of
Origin: |
India, China, Sri Lanka |
| Cup
Characteristics: |
A lively cup with slightly toasty notes. This
tea has a hint of "Lapsang Souchong". |
| Ingredients: |
Luxury black tea |
| Form: |
Loose Leaves |
| Infusion: |
Strong with a hint of citrus. Spicy with citrus
overtones |
|
|
Description:
During the Czar’s time tea was the most important drink after
vodka. In fact, even today the tradition continues as Russia
and the CIS are major consumers of tea in world terms. Their
tastes have changed over the years but light bright flavoury
teas are still in high demand in Russia. Quite often the tea is
thrown into a pot and allowed to simmer and steep all day;
(evidence of this custom can be seen in the Russian samovar -
the ideal means of serving tea Russian style). This is one
reason you need a light liquoring tea with flavour to be
considered for Russian Caravan Tea.
The history of this tea goes back hundreds
of years. In the city of Xian in central China one can see
historical marker that is acknowledged to be the beginning of
the Silk Road - the trail that lead to central Asia (areas such
as the Caucuses and the Black Sea). One of the commodities
taken along the Silk Road was tea. The tea that was carried on
the camel trains left a lasting impression on central Asia - so
much so that to supplement their importation of tea, tea was
cultivated in the region.
Hot Brewing Method:
Bring freshly drawn cold water to just before a boil. Place 1
teaspoon of tea for each cut in the teapot. Pour your hot water
over the leaves. Let steep for 3-7 minutes according to taste
(The longer the steeping time the stronger the tea). Add milk
and sugar to taste.
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