We know how much our customers love a cuppa – we sell enough tea in our Berlin store to float a battleship. And while a morning pick-me-up is always welcome, sometimes you fancy a cup of tea without the caffeine kick. Of course, we already have Barry’s excellent Decaf Blend in our range, and very good it is too. But if we may be so bold, can we suggest an alternative, in the form of Barry’s Rooibos Tea?
What is Rooibos tea?
Rooibos, meaning “Red bush” in Afrikaans, is a distinctive and delicious plant that originates from the mountainous regions of South Africa. If you’re new to rooibos, its deep reddish-brown color and naturally sweet, earthy flavor might catch your attention immediately. Unlike many traditional teas, rooibos isn’t made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, but instead comes from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis plant, which is native only to the Cederberg region of South Africa.
Where does Rooibos tea come from?
Rooibos tea has been cultivated in South Africa for centuries, where the indigenous Khoisan people first harvested the plant for its unique taste. Over time, this tea has gained popularity globally, but its cultivation remains deeply tied to its South African roots. The climate and soil of the Cederberg mountains give rooibos its distinct characteristics that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
What is Rooibos tea made of?
Rooibos tea is simple: it’s made from nothing but finely chopped leaves and stems from the rooibos plant, which are fermented to give the tea its rich red color. While some blends of rooibos tea may include added flavors, like vanilla or spices, Barry’s version consists purely of the rooibos plant itself.
The great thing about rooibos is that it’s naturally caffeine-free, with no need for any decaffeination process. This makes it it a perfect choice for evening sipping or for those who prefer to avoid stimulants before bedtime.
How is Rooibos tea produced?
The process of crafting rooibos tea begins with harvesting the needle-like leaves of the rooibos bush. After harvesting, the leaves are cut and bruised to promote oxidation, a crucial step that enhances the tea’s flavor and deepens its color. The tea is then sun-dried, during which it takes on its characteristic reddish hue. The result is a beautiful, rich tea that can be brewed either hot or cold, and can be enjoyed with or without milk.
What does Rooibos tea taste like?
Rooibos tea offers a naturally sweet flavour with hints of nuttiness and wood. Unlike black or green teas, which can sometimes have a bitter edge, rooibos has little or no tannins, so it maintains a smooth profile even if steeped for a long time. It makes an excellent base for experimenting with added flavours like honey or lemon.
Why Choose Barry’s Rooibos Tea?
If you’re Irish, the name Barry’s needs no introduction. This iconic Irish tea company, founded in 1901, has a well-earned reputation for crafting high-quality, carefully sourced teas. Though primarily known for its strong black teas, in recent times Barry’s has expanded its selection to include rooibos, and you can be confident that they produce it with the same care and dedication that has made their brand a household name.
Barry’s Rooibos stands out for its rich flavour and meticulous sourcing of the finest ingredients. The company works closely with South African farmers to ensure that only the best rooibos leaves are selected, ensuring each cup has the depth of flavour that makes rooibos so distinctive.
So, whether you’re a seasoned tea drinker looking to try something new, or simply curious about a caffeine-free alternative, rooibos is a great choice. And if you want to make sure your first experience with rooibos is top-notch, you won’t go wrong with Barry’s Rooibos Tea.
