My Overall Impression (Score of 90.5%)

I was recently in Dallas for an event, and I decided to swing by the Cultured Cup to see what they have.  I was not disappointed.  I was drawn in by the great education that I received and service.  As for the tea, this is one of the best I’ve tried.  It’s exceptionally well balanced with the right amount of bergamot and malt.  Add in the nuances along with being Organic, and this is one that you should have on hand.

BTW, for every tea that I consume, I ask myself one question:

• If I pair something with this, will I elevate the food and tea to make them both taste better?

This one is difficult as I do not want to adversely affect the quality of this tea.  I’ve already pictured this tea sitting with friends or Holiday mornings to get the day started on a positive note.  However, I do have some great suggestions below.  Why would these work?  Because they all are decadent just like this tea. 😊

The price on 7/25/23 is $23.15 for 2 oz (w) or 56 grams.

Broken down:

• 56 gm / 3 gm for steeping = 18 brews
• 18 brews from package = $1.29 per brew

Typically, I double steep all my teas (use the tea twice) so I can get 36 cups or approximately 64 cents per cup.  This is a bit expensive, but this is a premium tea that’s Organic.  I may not drink this one every day, but I would definitely drink this  for special times or just to enjoy a cup.  This is SO WORTH IT!!!

Quick Note – I’ve known Cultured Cup for years living in Texas and being a part of TEXSOM.  They were the group who first turned me on to my love of Matcha.  Check out their website for an excellent selection or visit them in their shop.  Very knowledgeable.

Aromas

• Opening the package, rich bergamot aroma with floral undertones. The malt is evident but hidden under the scent of fresh citrus rind.
• When brewed, the bergamot and malt are balanced and intense. It has delicate notes of floral, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and cloves.
• At the end, there are great citrus notes with honey / beeswax and toasted almond (giving it a creamy note).

Flavors

• The flavors start off with quick notes of dried apples and toasted nuts. This moves into the core of the tea with great bergamot and malt notes (with a touch of other types of citrus).
• This is followed by hints of white pepper, golden syrup, and a dusting of baking spices.
• Small sips bring the bergamot pleasantly into your sinuses.
• Amazing body and structure with this brew. The tannins are not over the top but sneak up on your over the profile.  This is super balanced that gently fades off over time.  Slightly off dry with great acidity and an amazing creamy texture for the mouthfeel.

Scores

• Aromas (4.6/5)
• Flavors (9.2/10)
• Overall impression (4.3/5)
  • Total score = 90.5 percent (18.1/20)

Foods to Pair and Why

• Classic heavy cream scones with fresh citrus and double cream.
• Double fudge chocolate brownies with toasted walnuts.
• Grilled Shrimp orange glazed served with honey drizzled whipped mashed potatoes and grilled squash.
• Spiced Olive oil teacakes.
• Grilled ribeye dusted with coarse salt and pepper. One reason – I know this tea can stand up to it.