This violet Tea will evoke wonderful memories of strolling through the English countryside on a warm spring morning. Also known as ‘Sweet Violet’, this luxurious beverage is a real treat to the senses. With its beautiful aroma (hence its Latin name, Viola odorata), and delicate, yet indulgent flavour, Violet Tea is the perfect choice for those looking to relax after a long, hard day.
It’s calming properties have been known to treat insomnia, anxiety, and even depression! Violet Tea’s popularity has recently soared like the enticing scent that wafts from the cup, engulfing the room with its aromatic delights. Meanwhile, its overall appearance, both before and after brewing, is as appealing as the flavours that cleanse your palate with every sip.
Native to Europe and Asia, viola odorata consists of deep purple, heart-shaped petals. It is now also widespread throughout Canada and the United States after mass-cultivation. The violet plant is related to the equally beautiful flower, the pansy (Viola tricolor), which, as well as the violet, can grow both in the wild and in domestic gardens.
While there is little known about Violet Tea’s history dating back further than the last two centuries, it is understood that the Edwardian upper classes took some interest in its consumption. Its overall beauty in plant-form, meanwhile, also inspired many tea set patterns in the early 1900’s. The violet plant was frequently referenced in many scriptures by the Ancient Greek author, Homer, and the Ancient Roman Poet, Virgil.
It was said to be used by Athenians to ‘moderate anger’, to procure sleep, and ‘to comfort and strengthen the heart’. The world-renowned philosopher, Pliny the Elder, is likewise noted to have prescribed a liniment of Violet root and vinegar for gout and ‘disorder of the spleen’. Almost a thousand years later, the infamous French leader, Napoleon, was believed to have had a great adoration for the violet plant. He had grown up alongside these beautiful flowers at his home on the island of Corsica. Just prior to his first exile to the island of Elba in 1814, Napoleon had famously said he would “return with the violets.” By this, he meant the Spring of 1815, during the time that violets bloom.
Type of Tea: Flavoured Black Tea.
Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water and infuse for 3 to 5 minutes.
How to Serve: Violet Tea has a slightly bitter taste, and can be consumed with the addition of honey or sugar to help bring out the sweet flavours. Alternatively, lemon can make an equally delicious accompaniment. However, the Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company believe it is best served as it is.
Tasting Notes: This beverage consists of a floral-malty infusion, both in taste and aroma. It has a slightly bitter taste when consumed without any accompaniments, but also leaves a delightfully refreshing aftertaste long after you have drained your cup.
Colour in Cup: Coppery liquor, light in tone.
Violet Tea Benefits: The health benefits of this beverage are two-fold. The Black Tea itself, when consumed alongside a healthy and active lifestyle, can improve cardiovascular health, and even prevent diabetes. The violet, meanwhile, contains anti-inflammatory properties, and can also work to combat colds and flu, as well as all associated side effects with these illnesses. In Pakistan, Violet Tea is consumed to increase sweating and to reduce fever.
