This is my second time to try this blend. I see cloves and peppercorns in this cup so I’m hoping it’s a little spicy. I can smell the spices, but it’s also smelling a little sweet. I’m always worried about teas with sarsaparilla because I’m afraid it’s going to taste like hot root beer, but that hasn’t been my experience with this tea so far.
The aroma as it’s steeping is almost entirely rooibos. Sweetened with honey, it tastes very slightly spiced – not enough to determine which spice I’m actually tasting. It’s mostly rooibos which is what I experienced the first time around. I used too much water I think so next time I’ll try less and see if that strengthens the flavors. I’m thinking this might be better cold, maybe made like a southern iced tea with sugar.
Second Steep
8 ounces water + 200 degrees + 4 minutes
I’m attempting to re-steep this though I’m nut sure if you are actually supposed to re-steep rooibos. I noticed that the liquid started to color very quickly within the first few seconds, but it didn’t get much darker after that. The liquid does smell spicier this time, like cinnamon. I can taste the cinnamon now too. It still tastes watered down (since I forgot to use less water), but the spices are more prominent this time.
Flavors: Cinnamon, Rooibos, Spices, Sweet
