Summer is here, and what better way to stay refreshed than with a glass of cold tea? Drawing on decades of experience and a passion for sourcing the world’s finest teas, Henrietta Lovell, founder of the award-winning Rare Tea Company, (and affectionately known as the Rare Tea Lady), offers her expert recommendations for the best teas to enjoy this season
Since 2000, Henrietta has journeyed across the globe, from the Shire Highlands of Malawi to the foothills of the Himalayas, working closely with small, independent tea gardens. More than just a tea expert, Henrietta is a visionary dedicated to transforming the tea industry. She champions sustainable practices and ethical trade, ensuring that tea enriches not only the lives of those who drink it but also those who grow and craft it. Her commitment to quality and fair trade has earned her collaborations with luxury hotels, such as Claridge’s, and iconic brands like Prada and Penhaligon’s. Notably in Hong Kong, the Rare Tea Collective has a long-standing partnership with The Arcane Collective, which includes the Michelin-starred Arcane and the new Australian all-day bistro SERVO.
Whether you’re lounging in the garden or hosting a summer get-together, these teas are sure to brighten your summer.
Top 3 Summer Teas to Try
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Iced Shincha
A smooth and buttery green tea, Shincha is a type of sencha grown organically in Wakohen, Kagoshima, Japan. Its delicate, fresh flavor makes it an excellent choice for a summer tea. Light and refreshing, it pairs wonderfully with seasonal dishes like salads and seafood.
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Black Iced Tea
This rich and malty tea comes from the Satemwa Estate in Thyolo, Malawi. It’s bold yet smooth, making it a versatile option for summer sipping. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with your favorite barbecue dishes, Black Iced Tea is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Teas with caffeine contain L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and focus while giving you a gentle energy boost.
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Wild Rooibos
For those looking for a caffeine-free option, Wild Rooibos is the perfect choice. This tea, sourced from the semi-arid deserts of the Cederberg in South Africa, has been used for rehydration for thousands of years. Its naturally sweet flavour makes it a delicious and hydrating option for the hottest summer evenings.
The Perfect Cold Infusion
Cold infusion is the ideal way to bring out the best flavours in your summer teas. Here’s how to do it:
- Ingredients: Use 6-10 grams of tea per liter of cold water.
- Instructions: Place the tea leaves in cold water and leave it in the fridge overnight for at least 12 hours.
- Why Cold Infusion? This method extracts the sweeter, more rounded notes of the tea without the bitterness of tannins, offering a smoother flavor. It also gives a refreshing caffeine lift without being overpowering.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your summer tea experience, try pairing these teas with complementary foods:
- Iced Shincha: Pairs beautifully with salmon, fresh salads drizzled with olive oil, or steamed dumplings.
- Black Iced Tea: A versatile option, it complements almost any dish but is especially delightful with grilled meats or sandwiches.
- Wild Rooibos: Perfectly matched with cakes and desserts, making it an excellent choice for a summer tea party.
