Tea Blog

You’ve no doubt heard of the Dog Days of Summer. But what about the Dog Days of Tea?

No? Then allow me to explain. First, a little background on the traditional Dog Days of Summer.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the Dog Days generally occur during July and August, when temperatures are often at their highest and humidity can make the weather feel especially oppressive. The term originates from Sirius, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major—the “Great Dog.”

Ancient Romans believed that Sirius contributed to the intense heat of summer because it appeared to rise and set around the same time as the sun. As a result, the hottest stretch of the year became known as the “Dog Days.” We now know that summer heat is caused by the Earth’s tilt and seasonal position relative to the sun, but the colorful name has endured.

So What Are the Dog Days of Tea?

The Dog Days of Tea are those long, hot summer days when iced tea reigns supreme.

During periods of intense heat, a tall glass of iced tea can be every bit as welcome as a traditional hot cup is on a cold winter afternoon. Because ice melts quickly in summer temperatures, many tea drinkers prefer to brew their iced tea slightly stronger than usual. As the ice melts, the flavor remains balanced rather than becoming overly diluted.

Fruit-flavored black teas, citrus blends, herbal infusions, and refreshing favorites such as Monk’s Blend tea are particularly enjoyable during these warmer months.

Not Everyone Switches to Iced Tea

Of course, some tea lovers remain loyal to hot tea regardless of the weather.

For those devoted to a steaming cup year-round, Dog Day tea sessions are often moved indoors, where air conditioning keeps things comfortable. Staying inside also offers another advantage: protecting your tea table from the insects that inevitably seem drawn to scones, biscuits, cakes, and other tea-time treats.

After all, a proper afternoon tea is far more relaxing when you’re not competing with bees and wasps for the last pastry.

Looking Ahead to Autumn

When cooler temperatures return in the fall, outdoor tea gatherings once again become an appealing option. Until then, many of us will happily enjoy our tea from the comfort of a shaded porch, a cool kitchen, or an air-conditioned sitting room.

Whether your preference is a pitcher of iced tea or a freshly brewed pot of hot tea, the Dog Days of Tea offer the perfect excuse to slow down, stay cool, and enjoy a favorite cup.

Enjoy!

See more of A.C. Cargill’s articles in this archive of tea lifestyle and entertaining articles.

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