Doulton’s Shakespeare: A Tasting Note in 5 Acts
Act 1 scene 2
“As merry as the day is long.”
Much Ado About Nothing Act II, scene 1
This tea is a comedy: Much Ado About Nothing. This was the play that I had my light bulb moment with Shakespeare in that his works are meant to be seen as plays and not just read in school. It was during Benedick’s humorous soliloquy in the garden where I found myself cracking up and realized that I was understanding the play. I was having such a great time unlike when Shakespeare was forced upon me in high school English classes.
Thus far I’ve avoided teas with any sort of chocolate in them. I really don’t care for chocolate just like I thought that I didn’t care for Shakespeare until I saw a live play. Apparently I’m fine with cocoa in tea! It’s so different than having a piece of chocolate. And these flavors are so wonderfully playful. The vanilla starts to get a bit pushy, but the caramel and cocoa seem to be doing a fine job of saying “hey nonny nonny” to both the tea and vanilla. It’s like the enjoyment of watching Beatrice and Benedick quibble and fight while all the time knowing that they’re perfect for each other. But this tea is much smoother than any of the relationships in this play. Ultimately this is a delightful dessert tea that I must always keep on hand. TG
