SimplyJenW

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SimplyJenW drank The Jane Austen Mafia by Adagio Teas

My first cuppa The Mafia….. I had been wanting to give this tea a try, as did a friend over the border, so we worked out a swap. There is just something about the juxtapositon of Jane Austen and the Mafia that makes me wonder how Jane would have handled herself in the time of Al Capone…… This one just arrived today. I have to say, it is pretty good. The flavor blends do work, and it almost doesn’t need additions. I do normally sweeten a bit, and this one just tasted better with a touch of sweet. It is mostly blackberry with a light amount of vanilla, even though I could smell some cream in the dry tea. The tea base has a slight bitter edge, but just enough to add interest.

I really will enjoy finishing this one. (They did send a little more than I was expecting, ~~so I have some to share.~~) However, after sampling at other tea companies, Adagio in general seems kind of average. I do so appreciate their variety, ease of ordering, and that they were my gateway into the vast world of tea.
ETA: I have shared all I can this round…..

2011-05-17 17:49:19 -0400

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gmathis 2011-05-17 19:39:42 -0400

Would you consider a benevolent cuppa for a total stranger? :) It sounds wonderful!

QueenOfTarts 2011-05-17 20:42:10 -0400

I’ve been wanting to try this one, too! Sounds yummy.
I completely agree with your opinion on Adagio. Their tea isn’t the best, but the ease of ordering makes it a popular choice!

SimplyJenW 2011-05-17 21:22:53 -0400

QofT…I added one to your Valetine’s package….(sounds like a late holiday package!)

And with that, I am out of samples if I want to have any to drink myself. I did contact those who asked, and I am sending some out tomorrow!

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Tea enthusiast, trying to keep up my cardio for the zombie apocalypse. I have come to accept that I am a western brewing black tea drinker as that is where my ‘tea heart’ lies. I started on loose leaf as a way to have my dessert and not suffer the caloric issues. Once I tried it, I was hooked.

I drink what I like, which is mostly China blacks, traditionally scented blacks and Earl Greys, plus a few other flavored teas. I don’t mind spending a bit on premium varieties on occasion, but an expensive tea has to deliver. My favorite places to order are Harney & Sons and Upton Tea Imports. TeaVivre is great for Chinese tea.

My ratings are pretty subjective. If it falls under 70, I may not take the time to post about it unless I had something specific to say. If it is 70-80 I like it, but I will probably not rebuy. Favorites are over 80 and up, but sometimes the less expensive or more easily obtainable version of a similar taste will win out for my cupboard space.

Usual teapot steeping method: 24 oz teapot, 3 perfect scoops of tea (4 1/2 actual tsp), freshly boiled water, 4 minutes. Lightly sweetened.

Usual mug steeping method: 15 oz mug, 1.5 perfect scoops of tea (just over 2 actual tsp), freshly boiled water, 4 minutes. Lightly sweetened.

Usual pan method: 1 1/2 cups water, 2 perfect tsp chai (3 actual tsp). Simmer for 3 minutes. Add 2/3 cup skim milk. Simmer for 2 more minutes. Strain and sweeten.

Usual pitcher method:
5 or 6 Perfect Spoons of tea (this means about 7-9 actual tsp), freshly boiled water, brewed essentially double-strong in my 24 oz teapot for 4 minutes. Fill my Fiestaware Disc pitcher (about 60 oz.) halfway with ice. Add brewed double-strong tea to the pitcher. Stir it a little and enjoy. No additions.

(*SRP is my Sample/Stash Reduction Plan starting on April 12, 2012. I got so far, but just decided it was too fussy to keep track.)