Tea Blog

It’s officially summer—and it’s hot, hot, hot! While many people reach for iced tea to stay cool, especially during Fourth of July celebrations, dedicated tea drinkers know that both hot and iced tea offer great ways to stay refreshed.

1. A tea that’s great hot or cold: Monk’s Blend flavored black tea

This popular blend combines vanilla and grenadine flavors with a base of high-grown Ceylon tea from elevated estates, creating a naturally sweet and aromatic experience. It works beautifully both hot and iced. You can also read a firsthand review of Monk’s Blend served chilled and a detailed tasting review of Monk’s Blend hot. Add milk and sweetener for a dessert-like treat.

2. Refreshing rooibos option: Blue Q Merci Lemon Ginger rooibos tea

This naturally caffeine-free rooibos blend from South Africa combines citrusy lemon with warming ginger. Whether served hot or over ice, it offers a bright, refreshing flavor profile that stands out from traditional iced tea.

3. Fruity green tea option: Granny Green Apple flavored tea

This fruit-forward tea delivers a crisp apple flavor that works equally well hot or iced. It’s an easy-drinking option for any time of day, especially during warmer weather.

4. Classic British blend: PG Tips black tea

This well-known British blend combines Assam, Ceylon, and Kenyan teas for a bold and balanced flavor. It also compares well to classic English Breakfast tea blends. Learn more in this overview of PG Tips tea history and flavor profile and see how it performed in a comparison of black teas served cold.

5. Floral Earl Grey variation: Versailles Lavender Earl Grey tea

This elegant blend combines traditional Earl Grey bergamot with floral lavender notes, creating a balanced flavor that works well as both a hot and iced tea. Inspired by historical European tea traditions, it offers a more refined twist on a classic.

See more of A.C. Cargill’s articles in this collection of tea reviews and articles.

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