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Winter is the perfect season to cozy up with a warm cup of tea. The chill in the air calls for teas that are bold, rich, and full of character. From smoky and roasted to bold black to spiced herbal blends, the options are endless. Let’s explore some of the best winter teas to keep you warm this season.
Smoked and Roasted Teas
When the air turns crisp, smoked and roasted teas bring a warm, rich depth that’s perfect for winter. These teas are full of character and offer unique flavor profiles that stand out among the usual winter tea options.
Lapsang Souchong
This tea is perfect for winter. Known for its distinct smoky aroma, Lapsang Souchong gets its flavor from being dried over pinewood fires, a traditional method that infuses the tea leaves with their signature rich and smoky character. It’s bold and robust, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a tea with strong, smoky notes.
In my tea pantry, I keep a Lapsang Souchong blend called Russian Country from Harney & Sons on hand. It is a blend of four high-quality black teas from different regions, with just enough Lapsang Souchong to provide a tasty smoky flavor without being overwhelming.
Lapsang Souchong & Russian Country
Harney & Sons Lapsang Souchong Loose Leaf Tea
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Harney & Sons Russian Country Loose Leaf Tea
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Hojicha
Hojicha, a roasted Japanese green tea, is a lighter alternative to Lapsang Souchong but equally satisfying. The roasting process enhances its nutty and toasty flavors, giving it a smooth and mellow profile, while its low caffeine content makes it perfect for unwinding on a cold evening.
Hojicha is available in both whole leaf form and as a powder. Whole leaf hojicha is ideal for brewing a tasty cup of tea, while hojicha powder is a great option for making tea lattes.
Hojicha Powder Green Tea: What Is It, How To Make A Hojicha Latte & More!
Indulge in the perfect blend of roasty, bold flavors and creamy yumminess with this rich and robust hojicha latte recipe, and learn all about hojicha green tea powder while you are at it. It’s a cozy cup of toasty goodness, where the deep, nutty notes of roasted green tea meet the rich creaminess of warm milk. Whether you’re looking for a soothing morning pick-me-up or a relaxing evening treat, this hojicha latte is sure to hit the spot.
Genmaicha
For a unique twist on smoked and roasted flavors, Genmaicha is a blend of green tea and roasted brown rice. The toasty popcorn-like aroma, subtle sweetness, and medium to low caffeine content create a cup that’s great any time of day.
Genmaicha Green Tea: How to Brew It, How It’s Made, and More
Discover Genmaicha Green Tea! Genmaicha is a blend of green tea leaves and roasted brown rice, giving it a nutty and aromatic flavor that will surprise your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a new tea to try or just want to mix up your routine, genmaicha is an excellent choice!
Pu-erh Teas
Pu-erh is a unique tea with a rich history and a flavor profile unlike any other. Known for its earthy and mushroom or forest floor notes, Pu-erh is a fermented tea that gains depth and complexity as it ages. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a robust cup of tea during the colder months.
Pu-erh can be enjoyed black, or with cream and a splash of sweetener, such as maple syrup for a sweet pick-me-up. If you enjoy earthy, rich flavors, pu-erh will be a wonderful addition to your winter tea lineup.
Pu-erh Tea: What Is It, How It’s Made, Brewing Tips & More
Pu-erh tea is a unique type of fermented, dark tea produced in the Yunnan province of China. It is known for its rich and earthy flavors, and its long fermentation process which can last several years or even decades.
Bold Black Teas
When it comes to winter, bold black teas are the classic choice. Known for their rich flavors and full-bodied profiles, these teas provide the strength and warmth needed to kickstart a chilly day.
Assam and Assam Blends
Grown in the lush valleys of India, Assam teas are known for their deep, malty flavors and brisk finish. Their bold character makes them a popular choice for those who appreciate a hearty brew. Many breakfast teas, such as Irish Breakfast are Assam blends, perfect for getting a cold winter morning started off on the right foot.
Harney & Sons East Frisian Blend
This blend of Assam, Darjeeling, and Ceylon is one of my personal favorites! I love it for its robust and malty flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a strong cup of tea. Often enjoyed with a splash of cream or a cube of sugar, East Frisian tea is a winter staple in my house!
East Frisian – one of my favorites!
Harney & Sons East Frisian, Loose tea in 4 Ounce tin
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Black Tea: What Is It, How It’s Made, Brewing Tips & More
Black tea is a type of tea that has undergone more oxidation than green, oolong, and white teas, giving it a stronger flavor and darker color. It’s known for its robust taste profiles, varying from sweet and malty to floral and fruity.
Chai Blends
Chai is another wintertime classic, loved for its rich spices and warming qualities. Traditional chai blends typically feature a mix of black tea, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves. Whether enjoyed plain, with a splash of milk or as a frothy latte, chai brings a festive touch to any cold day.
Why not try making your own chai blend at home? Adjust the spices to suit your preferences and create a custom cup that’s as unique as your winter mood.
Homemade Chai Tea Recipe: Craft Your Own Perfect Blend
Dive into the aromatic world of chai tea with my easy DIY guide! In this post, I’ll walk you through the essential ingredients, customization tips, and a simple recipe that allows you to create your perfect cup at home. Whether you prefer it spicy, sweet, or with a unique twist, making your own chai not only elevates your tea experience but also gives you control over the flavors and freshness of your ingredients. Let’s brew up a spicy cup!
Spiced Herbal Blends
Winter is the perfect time to embrace the warming qualities of spiced herbal blends. Free from caffeine and loaded with zingy flavors, these blends are a cozy way to stay warm during the colder months.
Ginger and Lemon Blends
Ginger is a standout ingredient in many herbal blends, and for good reason. Its natural spiciness brings an invigorating heat to every sip, making it a go-to choice for chilly days. While lemon adds a refreshing tang, rounding out the flavors. Add a spoonful of honey for a perfect cup to enjoy on brisk afternoons or as an after-dinner treat.
Cinnamon and Clove Blends
The classic combination of cinnamon and clove creates a beverage that feels like a celebration of winter. These spices add a sweet and slightly peppery warmth that lingers, making every cup feel festive and cozy.
Tasty Herbal Blends
Plum Deluxe Lemon Ginger Rejuvenation Blend
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Harney & Sons Herbal Hot Cinnamon | 4oz Tin of Loose Leaf Herbal Tea
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These are just a few of the tasty tea options perfect for winter! From the smoky and roasted depths of Lapsang Souchong and Hojicha to warming spice blends, to the bold richness of black teas, and so many more, there’s a tea to match every mood and moment. Each cup offers a chance to slow down, savor the season, and find warmth even on the coldest days.
It’s your turn! Leave a comment and tell me all about your favorite wintertime teas!
Resources
A Quick Guide to Brewing Loose Leaf Tea
Brewing the perfect cup of loose leaf tea is simpler than you might think! Use about 4 grams of tea (1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons) per 8 ounces of water and adjust to your taste. Lighter teas like greens and whites need cooler water (175°F–195°F) and shorter steep times (2–3 minutes), while darker teas like blacks and oolongs do best with near-boiling water (200°F–212°F) and steeping for 3–5 minutes. Learn more with my Beginner’s Guide To Brewing Loose Leaf Tea!
A Beginner’s Guide To Brewing Loose Leaf Tea
For more details on brewing techniques, check out my full guide!
Shop All My Recommended Winter Teas
Harney & Sons Lapsang Souchong Loose Leaf Tea
Buy Now →Harney & Sons Russian Country Loose Leaf Tea
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Harney & Sons Hojicha Tea | 16oz Bag of Loose Leaf Tea
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Harney & Sons Genmaicha Tea, 16 oz loose leaf
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Buy Now → Harney & Sons East Frisian, Loose tea in 4 Ounce tin
Buy Now →Plum Deluxe Lemon Ginger Rejuvenation Blend
Buy Now →Harney & Sons Herbal Hot Cinnamon | 4oz Tin of Loose Leaf Herbal Tea
Buy Now →
