In case you hadn’t figured it out, we here at Tea Noir like our cocktails. After all, we have an entire Cocktail Collection of teas inspired by some of our favourite boozy concoctions. That way, you can enjoy all the flavours of, say, a mojito while at work – without risking having the boss catch on!

Sometimes, though, nothing but actual alcohol will do. For those times, we’re embarking on an irregular series here on the blog: Tea Tipples. We’ll find or create interesting tea-based or tea-related cocktails for your sipping enjoyment.

First up is a drink that’s perfect for February – an ideal concoction to share with your sweetie on Valentine’s Day. It’s aromatic and balanced, sitting right on the line between dry and sweet, and tickles your senses as you sip. Perfect, no?

Lychee Kiss

Tea Syrup
1 cup sugar
2 cups water
2 heaping tablespoons Juicy lychee-scented black tea

1 bottle rosé sparkling wine (preferably a Brut, and not a sweeter pink Moscato, etc.)
Twist of lemon (to garnish)

Directions

1. Place sugar and 2 cups of water into a small saucepan.  Bring to a boil, stir, then turn down to a simmer until a light syrup is formed.
2. Add 2 heaped tablespoons of loose-leaf Juicy tea. Stir and let steep until completely cooled.
3. Strain well.
4. To serve, fill champagne glasses 1/4 full with tea syrup, then top with sparkling wine.
5. Garnish with a twist of lemon, if desired.

Wondering what kind of sparkling wine to use?

• Freixenet Brut de Noirs NV is an inexpensive cava that works well for mixing into cocktails.
• Martini & Rossi Rosé Sparkling Wine is inoffensive for blending, but maybe a little too sweet for this cocktail.
• Chandon Rosé is a good all-around; you’ll be able to enjoy it both blended in this cocktail and on its own.