I’m a huge fan of a good cup of tea. Growing up with my parents, we always capped off the evening with a cup of hot tea. In fact, my dad’s suggested remedy to me and my sister for everything- from a cold to broken heart- was a “nice cup of tea”.
Needless to say, I’m a nightly tea drinker to this day.
Finding new blends makes me ridiculously happy. Recently, I stumbled on two women who blend teas that every tea drinker needs in their life. Ellen and Cid are the Sacramento tea masters behind The Novel Tea Shop.
This online tea shop is the creation of two best friends that have known each other longer than they would like to mention. They share a deep passion and love for tea. Both former professors, they now spend their time finding the perfect blends and aromas that make your tea sipping experience truly special.
So what makes this tea stand apart?
First off, Ellen is actually a certified tea sommelier, so balancing blends is her specialty. They also only use single origin premium teas, so you know you are getting the highest quality.
Second, I’m a strong believer that when people are passionate about their craft it comes through in their product. That is most definitely the case with The Novel Tea. On their website, you’ll find all your favorite classic tea flavors, but enhanced by Ellen and Cid’s small batch blending process and special touch.
For example, “Bath Breakfast” is their take on the strong black breakfast tea. It was inspired by their trip to Bath, England where they had tea at the Sally Lunn Historic Eating House. It’s the perfect cup to wake up your senses and perk up your energy to start your day.
Looking for something a little different than your tried and true favorites?
Then you have to check out their line of “novel” teas. These are their exclusive blends.
Many are inspired by their other passion- books. Just take some time checking out their website and you’ll see how they mix literature and tea into a perfect union.
One of their biggest sellers is the “Where the Wild Teas Are” which they describe as “a rich, robust black blend with a smooth, smoky body draped in a malty flavor with subtle, slightly sweet hints of apricot, caramel, and cocoa overtones.”
Looking for perfect tea for each season? They have you covered there too. Their seasonal blends are very popular with customers. Right now you have to check out the Harvest Tea, perfect for sipping on a crisp fall day. Missing the feeling of spring and summer? Then make sure to order up some Cheery Cherry Green Tea which is perfect hot or cold.
And for those that have dreamed up their own perfect flavor, these ladies can make your tea a reality.
Currently, they are one of the very few online shops offering custom blending for those who want to create their own unique blend. Just let them know what you’re craving and they will blend between four and ten batches. They also enlist several other tasters to test your blend before they ship, so you will know your creation has been perfectly crafted and taste-tester approved.
So what’s next for The Novel Tea?
How about a place you can sip their amazing tea while enjoying a great book? That’s right, Ellen and Cid have plans to open The Novel Tea shop in the Sacramento area. Over the past decade, Sacramento has seen an exciting emergence of wonderful restaurants and coffee shops. But what’s missing? A custom tea shop!
Feel the same? Then join them in their efforts.
They have Kickstarter campaign which runs through the end of October.
Not only can you help make their concept for a beautiful brick-and-mortar shop a reality, but they also offer wonderful sponsorship thank you gifts for your contribution.
A beautiful tea blend and supporting something that would be a wonderful addition to the Sacramento scene anyway- sounds like the perfect win-win to me!
