Mood Indigo - Smoky Orange Vanilla Black tea

This elegant tea blend is a rerelease from the early, highly experimental years of August blends.

I wanted to create a smoky tea mild enough to carry the delicate scents of burnt orange, herbs and spice. I was looking for the layers of flavor you find in fine wines and Italian amari. To do this, I chose a mild Taiwanese lapsang souchong base and added a host of elegant spices and herbs to keep the smoke light. This extraordinary fruit herbal black tea blend drinks like a mild black tea with vanilla and orange at the heart, and a whisper of smoke like that of a candle freshly extinguished.

It's a jazzy sensual vibe. Red wine fans, lovers of amaro and fine vermouths will appreciate this flavor.

There are those who will shy away from this tea for its smoky note. There are smoky tea lovers who may wish for it to be a bolder, more tannic tea. My hope is that this blend will be a delightful experience for anyone who's looking for a new flavor experience.

I encourage you to explore the variations of Mood Indigo flavor. So if you're inclined, please try it hot and iced. Add a splash of your favorite milk. Give it a kiss of honey. It's a little fruity, a little herbaceous, a little boozy, a little smoky, and oh so intriguing.

I drank it again this morning, and can't stop thinking about it. I can't wait to hear what you think.

Warmly,
Gina Zupsich
Head Blender

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
70 cup bag: 250g / 8.8oz