Chocolate, mint, and…lavender? This was too intriguing of a combination to not try. The Cacao Mint Herbal from Samovar Tea is exactly that: a combination of cocoa shells, peppermint, and lavender. All of the ingredients are organic, and are blended by hand and then cured for up to 6 months so the aromas and flavours have ample time to mingle. But just how well does a floral note like lavender fit with chocolate and mint flavours?
From the dry aroma, surprisingly well. The balance of sweet, floral, and menthol aromas are cool, fresh, and inviting. It’s a blend that’s just so pretty to look at, as well.
I prepared this using a teapot, and with 2 heaping teaspoons per 10oz of water. Samovar Tea’s recommendation is 1tbsp per 12oz. Using boiled water, I gave it a solid 4 minutes to steep before tasting. The aroma was crisp and sweet. But how does the lavender work in this blend?
It balances it out perfectly, making a smooth harmony between the sweet cocoa and peppermint. It’s complimentary and yet contrasting, making the whole blend greater than the sum of its parts. It also adds a very soothing feel to this tisane, making it a great candidate for a bedtime cuppa. So, it works. And it works wonderfully. Cacao Mint also lends itself to reinfusing quite well, too.
You can find Samovar Tea‘s beautiful Cacao Mint Herbal on their website here and try it out for yourself.
(Tea provided for review. All opinions expressed are my own.)
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