Treleela is an Ineeka Brand that is sold in non-food oriented retail shops.
Name: "Invigorate" Assam Black
Brand: Treleela (an Ineeka brand)
Type: Black tea, Assam
Form: Paper bagged leaf tea (unique bags)
Review: I am not often impressed by Assams. It seems that many Assams are processed for the very purpose of adulteration with milk and sugar. Try an ordinary Assam without one or both of these additives, and you may find yourself puckering up to a bitter, astringent mess.
Fortunately, the good folks at Chicago-based Treleela (an Ineeka brand that is marketed in non-food retail outlets, such as gift stores) don't rely on customer use of milk and sugar to make their tea palatable. Instead, they start out with a quality Assam that tastes remarkably good without either milk or sugar. This tea infuses to a deep red/copper color, with a nose of malt and a bit of fruit. While it is definitely strong and malty, with a bit of astringency at the finish, it is also not bitter and quite smooth in character. It is great for sipping on its own, but I have also found that it washes down greasy breakfast foods like a champ. Recommended.
Comments
Always on the search for a self-drinking Assam, so thank you. What did you think of their proprietarial brew-taché method?
I rather like Assam myself, but I've probably been fortunate enough to get good ones over the years. I also happen to like it for breakfast.
Thanks for this great review of a local tea. I'm sure those of us not in Chicago can order it online if we wish.
@Margaret: Absolutely. The article links to the site where you can buy the tea.
@Arnold: I love the brew-tache method. Very convenient. I have to say, though, that their tea itself is really good.
Yes, an Assam that stands alone is appropriate here in America where milk and sugar aren't as traditional as they are in Britain. A good malty cup of strength for breakfast shouldn't need anything to dilute it.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!