Today, I decided to be daring and try the rooibos tea I was sold on at Teavana’s Park Royal location in West Vancouver.
Once I mentioned I have an affinity for Chai teas, she instantly mentioned this tea. And, almost as instantly, I was skeptical of it. But, as soon as she opened the canister, the spicy aroma filled the air. It is simply divine, a beautiful potpourri of Chai spices and coconut, which sold me instantly.
Steeping gives a nice dark Chai red, with a very light spicy aroma. The scent is not as powerful as, say Teavana’s Maharaja Chai oolong, but the spice is there. Thankfully, the rooibos does not overpower, more works with the spice. This made me excited to actually taste.
This is an interesting Chai flavor. It is definitely not as bitingly strong as the Maharaja Chai oolong, but almost as spicy.
I would expect the rooibos and tulsi would have something to do with the pale floral base, giving me this weird feeling wondering how this spicy kick came from nowhere.
It’s a little disappointing that there are no coconuts to be found in the final brew, as there is prominent listing of coconuts. This also might be due to the rooibos and tulsi.
Nonetheless, a strange yet satisfyingly spicy brew, best sweetened. It would probably be better iced, as I would anticipate iced would bring out a better flavor.
