About This Tea

This batch of 2018 vintage Shu Pu’er is blended with aged tangerine peels and Moroccan orange blossoms from the town of Fez, which is famous for its exquisite rose and orange blossom water production. We source organic bitter orange blossoms from Fez, Morocco to create something really special and unique in the world of tea blends. The traditional combination of aged tangerine peel and Pu’er is taken to a whole new level of aroma and complexity with this blending and curing technique we developed. The complexity of aromas and taste are well integrated and come out over the course of several infusions, so use enough tea and enjoy several brewing rounds of the same serving to truly get the taste sensations.

The scientific name for bitter orange blossoms is Citrus aurantium amara and they are often referred to as “neroli.” The term "neroli" is derived from the Italian princess, Anne-Marie of Nerola, who popularized the use of bitter orange blossom oil in the 17th century.

Historically, bitter orange blossoms have been used in various cultures for their aromatic properties. In the Far East, particularly in China and Japan, the essential oil extracted from bitter orange blossoms is used in traditional medicine for its calming and soothing effects. In the Middle East, countries like Lebanon and Syria use orange blossom water in their culinary traditions, adding it to desserts, pastries, and beverages. In the West, bitter orange blossoms are used in fragrances, teas, and as a flavoring agent in foods.

Bitter orange blossoms contain unique aromatic compounds such as linalool, limonene, and nerolidol. These compounds contribute to the distinct character of the orange blossom aroma profile, which is described as sweet, floral, and citrusy. The scent is often described as uplifting and refreshing, which is why we love this blend so much.

In terms of folk remedies and historical usages, bitter orange blossoms are believed to have various therapeutic properties. In aromatherapy, the aroma of bitter orange blossoms is believed to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and uplift mood. In traditional herbalism, bitter orange blossoms are used to aid digestion, relieve bloating, and support a healthy appetite. In Moroccan tea service, bitter orange blossoms are often combined with green tea and other herbs to create a popular traditional tea called "Moroccan mint tea." It is believed to have digestive benefits and is served as a refreshing and aromatic beverage in Moroccan culture.