New Zealand Waikato Black

I’ve brewed a lot of black teas, but this one’s got a depth that caught me off guard—rich and smooth without any bitterness. The leaves are beautifully broken, steeping into a dark, malty cup that holds up even after a few minutes. It’s become my go-to afternoon pick-me-up.

The tasting room story got me curious, and I’m glad I took the gamble—this loose leaf brews up a deep, smooth cup that doesn’t turn bitter even after a few minutes. It’s become my go-to afternoon ritual since the bag arrived.

I’ve been chasing a black tea that doesn’t turn bitter after two minutes, and this one held its smoothness through three steeps. The leaves are so dark and dense that a little goes a long way, which makes the bag last longer than I expected.