Spice, apple and vanilla: Ahmad Tea's picks for autumn brews

As the weather cools, Hampshire-based Ahmad Tea is promoting a set of autumn blends: Chai Spice, Cinnamon Haze, Vanilla, Cinnamon & Apple, Blackcurrant Burst and Rooibos & Cinnamon. The headline says five brews, though the list actually names six.

The reasoning is that warming spices, ripe fruit and sweet aromas feel richer and more satisfying in cooler weather. The company stresses that added flavours should complement rather than overpower the tea, keeping the brisk character of good Kenyan and other East African black teas.

There are pairing suggestions too. Spiced teas go with porridge, baked fruit and cakes, vanilla suits puddings and sweet bakes, fruity blends cut through rich food, and robust black teas match a hearty breakfast. Rooibos & Cinnamon is caffeine-free, which makes it a good evening choice.

The article also notes that aroma and flavour are tied to memory and season, which is probably why cinnamon, vanilla and apple feel so comforting in October. Flavoured blends are not everyone's idea of serious tea, but I enjoy the point about balance, and I would be curious which of these combinations tea lovers here actually reach for once the evenings get dark.

Source: Tea & Coffee Trade Journal