Southern Gothic - Peach Bourbon Black Tea

For many years now, I’ve been working on a modern peach tea. It had to be deep and mysterious. My goal was to create a peach tea that was less complex than Dark Iris, yet one that would stand out in a sea of peach black teas.

Forget what you knew about peach tea. This one is dark and brooding. Of all the stone fruit, peaches make me swoon because their flavor is so varied and multi-faceted. My favorite peach is the thick tangy, sweet yellow peach with indolic floral aroma. I live for the summer when I can eat perfectly ripe O’Henry peaches. I love stewed or grilled peaches with that lovely caramelized flavor. This is the peach flavor of Southern Gothic.


Peach is a classic Southern flavor much like the bourbon burnt sugar in Low Country. This inspired me to develop a peach with depth and mystery. It took many years to get the balance of smoke, peach and caramel just right so that not one flavor was overpowering the other. This peach isn’t bright and sugary. Think peach flambéed with bourbon. I love the slight smoke and rich tannins of Southern Gothic. The caramel is mild and boozy. If you like big peach flavor, try it with milk and sugar. It’s one of the best iced teas I’ve had. I personally enjoy it black so I can enjoy the layers of flavor.

Drinking Southern Gothic calls to mind steamy nights and the dark dramas of Tennessee Williams. It’s luscious and dramatic.


I'd love for you to try Southern Gothic and share what you think.

— Gina Zupsich, Head Blender
August Uncommon

Hot Brewing 10 oz

Heat 212°f/100°c water
Add 3.5g tea, about 2 teaspoons
Pour 10oz/300ml hot water
Infuse 4-5 mins. Longer is stronger.
Repeat Reinfuse 1-2 times

Iced Brewing 10 oz

Heat 212°f/100°c water
Add 3.5g tea, about 2 teaspoons
Pour ~3oz hot water to barely cover tea leaves
Infuse 4-5 mins. Longer is stronger.
Dilute with 7oz cold water
Serve Over ice

Pro tip: If you want more concentrated flavor, try doubling the tea leaves in this recipe.

Want to learn everything about brewing tea?
Check out our in-depth guide here.

4 cup deluxe sample: 14g / .5oz
15 cup bag: 50g / 1.8oz
28 cup tin: 100g / 3.5oz
70 cup bag: 250g / 8.8oz