And in another twist, the way one traditionally enjoys a good cuppa is being reinterpreted by Noveltea, in what they believe is a world first, they are blending cold-brewed tea with a matching spirit of either gin or rum, giving us ‘tea with spirit’, in the form of The Tale of Earl Grey, an infusion of black tea with British gin and botanicals, and The Tale of Tangier, an infusion of Moroccan green mint tea with spearmint, dried lemongrass, dried apple, blackberry leaves and Caribbean white rum. Developed by its founders, keen mixologists Lukas Passia and Vincent Efferoth, the flavours are inspired by tales from the tea’s origins.
Originally from Germany, entrepreneurs Passia and Efferoth are based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, having adopted the city as their home and becoming ‘Geordies by choice’. It was after arriving in the UK that they noticed the British fascination with afternoon tea, which often tended to slide into an early evening ‘sundowner’, which is likely to be another British tradition, a G&T. It occurred to them that alcoholic tea could be an interesting little combination of the two. Noveltea is made using an eight-hour cold-brewing process that draws out the distinctive flavours of the tea, which is then combined with a matching spirit, creating a smooth drink featuring natural sweetness. The products have been featured by high street retailer John Lewis. Rachel Costello, buyer for gift food and alcohol for the stores, says, “These drinks present a versatile and unusual option for customers looking to enjoy a different tasting experience.” Noveltea (11% abv.) can be served chilled over ice. RRP of £9.95 (25cl) or £24.95 (70cl).