Get Acquainted with Pu Erh!

We've had a long, healthy relationship with Pu Erh, the often misunderstood aged black tea from China's Yunnan Province. Processed in both cake and loose-leaf form, Pu Erh has an earthy, robust flavor that is sometimes compared to... Well, dirt.

But don't let that scare you! Pu Erh is believed to aid digestion and is customarily served with oily dishes like roast duck to cut the fat. It's a great option for someone looking for a strong, hearty black tea. Here's some healthful Pu Erh info from next month's issue of Bon Appetit:

Studies have shown that drinking caffeinated, antioxidant-rich teas like pu-erh regularly has health benefits, such as boosting metabolism and lowering cholesterol. But pu-erh has more than that going for it. Its unusual richness makes it a nice match for savory dishes.

Be sure to come in and try some at the shop. We have a great Pu Erh from 1998 just waiting to be sampled!

Special Tea Bags for Mom

This is a unique idea for the tea lovers in your life that don't want to be bothered with loose leaf tea, but who would enjoy the very best tea if it were in bags. It's a craft idea that would be easy to do for Mother's Day or it might be a way to take your favorite teas on trips.

If you're looking for a great place to have tea, how about a tea party with the Mad Hatter in the new Alice in Wonderland movie. Walking on the tea table to welcome tiny Alice is such a welcoming moment. All the regular guests are there, the March hare and dormouse. Enjoy this tea party moment if you dare!