Paris tea, also known as French tea, is a blend of black tea and fruit or floral flavors. It is a popular tea that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for centuries.
But what exactly makes Paris tea so special? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of Paris Tea
Paris tea has a rich history that dates back to the early 17th century. During this time, France was at the forefront of European cultural and intellectual life, and tea was becoming increasingly popular among the aristocracy.
In 1636, King Louis XIII granted a royal charter to the French East India Company to import and trade in spices, including tea. The French quickly developed a taste for it and began experimenting with different blends.
One of the most famous blends was created by Mariage Frères, a luxury teahouse in Paris founded in 1854. Their blend combines Chinese black tea with notes of bergamot, vanilla, and caramel.
The Ingredients
Paris tea is typically made from black teas such as Darjeeling or Ceylon that are blended with fruit or floral flavors. Some common ingredients include bergamot oil (which gives it an Earl Grey-like flavor), vanilla, caramel, and fruits such as raspberry or peach.
Black Tea
Black tea is a type of tea that is more oxidized than green or white teas. It has a stronger flavor and higher caffeine content than other teas. This makes it perfect for blending with other flavors because it can hold its own against strong flavors like bergamot oil.
Bergamot Oil
Bergamot oil is an essential oil derived from the rind of the bergamot orange. It has a citrusy flavor that pairs well with black tea. Bergamot oil is what gives Paris tea its distinctive Earl Grey-like flavor.
Vanilla
Vanilla is a common ingredient in Paris tea blends. It adds a sweet and creamy flavor that complements the strong black tea base.
Caramel
Caramel is another common ingredient in Paris tea blends. It adds a rich and buttery flavor that pairs well with the fruity or floral notes.
How to Brew Paris Tea
Brewing Paris tea is easy and straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring water to a boil.
- Add one teaspoon of loose leaf Paris tea to a teapot or infuser.
- Pour the boiling water over the tea leaves.
- Let steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup and enjoy!
The Bottom Line
Paris tea is a delicious and unique blend of black tea and fruit or floral flavors. Its rich history and distinctive taste make it a favorite among tea lovers all over the world. Whether you’re sipping it on a cozy afternoon or serving it at an elegant dinner party, Paris tea is sure to delight your taste buds.