Black tea Imperial Gold O.P

Imperial Or is one of those teas that make an impression with their boldness, bringing together two opposing traditions: the woody depth of smoked teas and the intoxicating freshness of jasmine. In this blend, the deliberately moderate smoking (often referred to as "half-smoked" or partial) aims to offer a rounder, warmer, and more delicate liquor, so that the smoky note ideally harmonizes with the floral delicacy of the jasmine added afterwards.

The jasmine flavoring technique combines inherited gestures and precision: it is indeed Sambac jasmine (Jasminum sambac) that is predominantly cultivated in the Fujian province for this tradition. Around Fuzhou, the historical birthplace of jasmine tea in China, several varieties are selected for the power of their fragrance, their nocturnal blooming, and their excellent suitability for traditional scenting. Mo Li Hua, the Chinese name for Sambac jasmine, thus establishes itself as the essential reference for high-end quality.

After a meticulous harvest, the fresh flowers are left to rest for some time to develop all facets of their fragrance. Then, the layering process begins: tea leaves and flowers alternate in layers, each night, so that the precious aromatic molecules permeate the leaf. This cycle of contact, then removal of the flowers, can be repeated five to seven times. Withered flowers are systematically removed, as they would no longer contribute fresh notes, and then a final gentle drying stabilizes the whole. The result is a tea of great complexity, persistent and floral, made without artificial flavors, where each step of the process refines the quality of the liquor.

Imperial Or finds its place in our range of smoked teas as a subtle bridge between character and finesse: more delicate thanTarry Souchong, with its intense, deep woody smoke, it distinguishes itself from Lapsangby its softness, its rounded liquor, and its floral touch of jasmine. As for Pointes Blanches, they combine the lightness of white buds with a subtle smoke, offering a balanced experience. Thus, Imperial Or offers a unique harmony, oscillating between controlled power and refined freshness.

Food and Tea Pairings
A baked Mont d'Or and an Imperial Or tea create a very harmonious, original pairing: the creamy texture and slightly woody rind of the Mont d'Or highlight the tea's roundness and smoky notes, while the jasmine adds a refined floral touch. This pairing transforms each bite into a warm and sophisticated experience, especially when the cheese is well-aged and served with the Mont d'Or's melting generosity.

Recipe using Imperial Or Chinese black tea
On a bed of tea leaves, place a cod fillet that has been salted and drizzled with a touch of unsalted butter. Vacuum seal and cook for 40 minutes at 50°C. The leaves slowly release their jasmine, honeyed, and vegetal aromas, which intertwine with the fish's flesh. When it comes out of the oven, the cod reveals nuanced, delicately perfumed flavors, enhanced by the subtle floral notes of the tea.