Arguably one of the most indulgent Flavoured Redbush Tea’s available, our very own Vanilla Rooibos Tea is a soft, creamy, infusion; perfect for those trying to avoid the pleasures of dessert, without neglecting their sweet tooth! This beverage can be served both hot or cold, the choice is yours! Just rest assured that this low-calorie blend is completely Caffeine free and especially low in tannins! What more could you possibly want?
The story of Rooibos begins hundreds of years ago, in the Cederberg Region of South Africa. Located in the present-day Western Cape Province, this mountainous area is frequently subjected to ever-changing conditions as the summers become hotter and less rainfall in the winter months, global warming?
However, the Rooibos plant (scientifically known as Aspalathus Linearis) has adapted well to its environment and can survive temperatures ranging from below zero in winter, and above 40C in summer!
The term ‘Rooibos’ is a translation from the Afrikaans language, and means: ‘Red Bush’, accounting for its physical appearance. However, this ‘tea’ has also been referred to as ‘Red tea’ and ‘Bush tea’ over the course of history. Yet, this beverage holds a secret, for it is not actually a ‘tea’, at all! Rooibos is actually an herb, meaning its consumption in a beverage should, by rights, be referred to as a ‘Herbal Tea’.
First used by the Khoisans, one of the many indigenous populations located in South Africa, Rooibos Tea was frequently used as a herbal remedy to cure a number of ailments within these tribal communities. But as unknown ships from a distant land were spied on the horizon, their lives would change forever.
While British and Dutch settlers set up colonies across the Cape, the Khoisan population began to dwindle as these new arrivals encroached on their territories. Soon, Rooibos Tea was forgotten and for a brief time, it looked as if it's story might end.
Thankfully, a Swedish botanist by the name of Carl Thunberg, rediscovered the Rooibos leaves in 1772. He revived a more widespread interest in the drink, which spanned across the South African colonies and beyond. For the next 130 years, this modest beverage would steadily rise in popularity; only to be further boosted in 1904 by a Russian immigrant with ties to tea manufacturing. Benjamin Ginsberg’s marketing strategy saw Rooibos rebranded as a ‘Mountain Tea’ – an herbal alternative to traditional black and green teas.
Then, in 1939, the outbreak of the Second World War caused great upheaval in worldwide tea trade. This was largely due to the Japanese occupation of China the largest market for various forms of tea across the Western Hemisphere. While India took on much of the burden of this global shift, many suppliers sought the produce of Rooibos tea in order to fill the new void in the wounded industry.
During this period, Rooibos seed prices rose to record highs due to the plant’s scarcity, but after the war’s conclusion, the market was able to rebalance accordingly. Despite this, the story of this nutritious brew was not yet over, and in 1968, a book published by Dr. Annique Theron accurately recorded the outstanding health benefits of Rooibos tea. This resulted in a renewed adoration for Redbush Tea, which is still prevalent today!
Type of Tea: Flavoured Loose Leaf Rooibos.
Origin: The Cederberg Region, South Africa.
Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water and infuse for 8 to 10 minutes.
How to Serve: Lemon or Honey are both delightful accompaniments to this beverage, although it is best served as it is. Great as an Iced Tea when the weather gets hot !
Tasting Notes: Expect strong flavours of Rooibos from the first sip, which delicately subside to allow the creamy textures of vanilla to dance on your palette! Complemented by floral notes and earthy undertones, this beverage has something for everyone!
Colour in Cup: Ruby liquor, light in tone.
Benefits of Rooibos: Most famously, Dr. Annique Theron’s works referred to Rooibos Tea’s incredible ability to counter the harsh side effects of allergies. This discovery came about when Dr. Theron was tending to her 14-month-old daughter, Lorinda, who was severely susceptible to a number of different allergies.
Infusing Rooibos tea with her milk, she soon realised that Lorinda was able to sleep for more than 3 hours straight – something she had never before achieved! This moment of genius is the main reason that Allergies: An Amazing Discovery was published in the 1960’s, with a number of Scientific Studies backing her claims to this day!
Further to this, Rooibos tea is rich in many minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, copper, manganese, zinc, magnesium, and alpha hydroxy acid. It likewise contains high levels of antioxidants, like Nothofagin and Aspalathin, which help the body combat free radicals, as well as improving cardiovascular health and even reducing the risk of Diabetes!
