Smoky Highlands

Water: 8oz

Tea: 3g or 1TBSP

Temperature: 212º

Time: 4 minutes

 

Traditional Eastern Gaiwan Brewing

4 grams

3 infusions at 1 minute each

1. Supports Gut Health
Fermented teas contain beneficial microbes and compounds that may promote a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption. The microbial content is lower than in something like yogurt but may still support gut flora over time.

2. Aids Digestion
Traditionally consumed after meals, fermented teas are believed to help the body break down fats and heavy foods. The microbial metabolites and polyphenols may stimulate digestive enzymes and bile production.

3. May Reduce Cholesterol
Some studies have shown that puerh tea can lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and increase HDL ("good") cholesterol, potentially supporting cardiovascular health.

4. Antioxidant Protection
While the antioxidant profile shifts during fermentation, fermented teas still contain powerful polyphenols that combat oxidative stress and may support overall cellular health.

5. Gentle Energy Boost
Puerh contains caffeine, but its release is slower and gentler than in coffee, providing sustained energy without a crash. Some people report improved focus and clarity.

6. Detoxifying Properties
Puerh has been traditionally regarded as a cleansing tea, believed to support liver function and help flush out toxins, though scientific backing is still limited.

7. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Some compounds produced during microbial fermentation may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially supporting immune function and reducing inflammation-related discomfort.

High

Winter 2024

🍽️ Main Course:

🔥 Smoked or Charcoal-Grilled Proteins

• Smoked Duck Breast with Cherry Glaze
  – Campfire + sweetness = magic

• Grilled Portobello Steaks with Garlic & Balsamic Reduction
  – Meaty texture for a vegetarian option; earthy and bold

🍲 Braised Beef or Lamb with Malt Reduction

• Think of beer-braised short ribs or malt-vinegar glaze

• Compliments both the malt and savory tea intensity

🍫 Dessert:

🍮 Burnt Caramel Pudding or Smoked Salt Chocolate Tart

• The bitterness of burnt sugar and the salt accentuate the smoky maltiness

🥧 Toasted Chestnut Cake or Sticky Toffee Pudding

• Deep, nutty, molasses-y richness mirrors the tea beautifully

 

🧀 Cheese Pairings

Start with aged gouda—especially a version aged 18 months or more. Its deep caramel and nutty notes echo the roasted chestnut and malty warmth of the tea. The crystalline texture also offers a beautiful contrast to the tea’s smooth mouthfeel.

Next, try a smoked cheddar. The smoky sharpness pairs directly with the tea’s campfire character, creating a layered, rustic flavor. It’s bold but balanced.

 

🍫 Chocolate Pairings

Start your chocolate pairings with a 70–80% dark chocolate studded with roasted hazelnuts or almonds. This brings out the roasted nut character in the tea while deepening the cocoa resonance.

For a bold match, go with a smoked sea salt dark chocolate. It mirrors the tea’s campfire smokiness and enhances its savory side with a mineral lift.

 

🔥 Guava Wood–Smoked Black Tea Dry Rub

 

🧂 Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons smoked black tea leaves (finely ground or crushed)

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for caramelization and contrast)

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or Aleppo pepper for fruitier heat)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (a warm undertone that complements the guava wood)

• ½ teaspoon sea salt (or more to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

 

👩‍🍳 Best For:

• Pork (tenderloin, ribs, shoulder)

• Chicken thighs or wings

• Duck or game meats

• Grilled mushrooms or eggplant

Tawny Port 

Smoky Highlands unfolds with gentle smokiness, layered with the rich warmth of malt and roasted nuts. Hints of liquor and soft caramelization add complexity and a smooth, lingering finish. Much like an aged Tawny Port, it’s rich but refined, with toasted, nutty notes balanced by a subtle sweetness. It’s a tea to savor slowly—comforting, deep, and with a touch of indulgence.