I have a confession … I thought that the Choice brand of organic teas was a generic store brand.  Not that I have anything against generics mind you, but they aren’t really a splurge in my book. Consequently, the higher price of Choice Organic (relatively speaking) caused me to pass it up whenever I was looking for a new tea to trial.  Perhaps it was the name “Choice” or the simplistic label, but I can’t help but wonder if others may have the same instant impression, and if this might hurt their sales just a bit?  Okay, maybe it’s just me. 

Regardless, once I procured some samples of this tea (two of their newest teas in fact), I was pleasantly surprised by its virtue.  Organic, sustainably manufactured, and fair trade; in fact in 2000, Choice Organic Teas became the first tea crafter in the United States to offer Fair Trade Certified™ tea. Where have I been?

Himalaya Green Tea

A new variety in the extensive Choice line-up, this tea is definitely for “real” green tea fans.  Pure green tea as enjoyed in Asia is slightly bitter, a bit grassy if you will, and not a touch sweet.  Many Americanized green teas are sweetened or weak, but Choice does not bow to the popularity contest.  Their green holds true to its roots and is a mighty strong green at that.  On their site, they call it “gently refreshing.”  While I enjoyed the tea, these really aren’t the descriptive words I would use.  It has a pure, bold, and distinct flavor that reminds me greatly of the tea that was served in my favorite Chinese restaurant (run by a friend from Hong Kong who imported all of his teas). 

Unfortunately, I made the mistake of leaving the tea bag in my mug too long.  My favorite mug is quite large, and since so many teas are weak, I rarely need to remove the bag promptly nor do they ever have enough potency to make a second cup.  But, this Himalaya green tea from Choice is strong, and alas becomes a bit bitter if you allow it to brew for too long.  Be sure to remove the bag after a few minutes, and enjoy a second jumbo mug of the green stuff!

Oh yes, and if the whole organic, fair trade thing wasn’t enough, Choice donates 10¢ per box to Save The Himalayan Kingdom, a non-profit organization with programs focused on environment, health, and literacy issues. 

Lemon Lavender Mint Herb Tea

I really wasn’t sure what to expect from this flavor combination.  Peppermint tea is one of my favorite morning teas, for its refreshing caffeine-free wake up call.  Lemon is typically a bit sharp in flavor, while lavender is known for soothing and relaxing, a bedtime herb if you will.  The entire package seemed a bit contradictory, so I was somewhat apprehensive. 

Because of the lavender, I did opt to enjoy it as a nightcap.  I usually enjoy a cup of chamomile in the evening to relax my senses, but I was pleasantly surprised by the soothing powers of lavender.  This was my first taste of lavender (infused or otherwise), and I was surprised at how mellow it was in flavor.  The mint was much more sedated than my bold peppermint tea, serving more to enliven the lavender and leave a nice clean aftertaste.  Luckily, I really didn’t detect the lemon, as I am not a huge fan of lemon in tea. 

I really was pleasantly surprised by the seductive blend of this tea.  It was soothing, calming, and fresh for a nice crisp taste that left me feeling warm and relaxed.  I think it may be time to for me to move on from the chamomile tea, and welcome this new flavor infusion.  A definite two thumbs up.

Where to Purchase: Obviously this stuff isn’t too hard to find if I was mistaking it for a generic (boy do I feel foolish now!).  But... if you can't find it in your local store, see the Choice website to order.  Their tea comes in packages of 16 individually packaged tea bags.

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