Tea of the Week: Zhena's Gypsy Tea: Hazelnut Chai

I was at World Market a few days ago, where I spotted this unusual blend.  I love hazelnut anything (Ferrero Rocher anyone?).  And I'm a big fan of chai.  This one didn't disappoint.  Zhena's does small batch processing, and their teas are certified organic and fair trade.

Liquor --  Dark russet brown

Aroma --  Spicy and nutty, with highlights on the notes of cinnamon and cloves

Body --  Thick and almost cloudy

Flavors --  You can really taste the cinnamon.  The hazelnut is there  (as are the other spices) but it is more subtle, adding another layer of flavor.  The flavor of the black tea almost disappears, but it does provide a bass note that binds the other flavors together.

Other -- This tea is a flavored blend.

NOTE: I evaluate tea blends on this blog based on what came in the canister, so these tasting notes do not reflect any addition of dairy or sweeteners, even though chai traditionally has them added.