Come Try This Light And Perfumey White Tea In A Coffee Hotspot

What am I drinking?

White tea with blackcurrant.

Where am I drinking it?

Joe’s Coffee, until recently known for being one of the in-house cafés in Arnott’s Department Store, but now also open on Montague St. One of the new breeds of small coffee shops that has as many coffee preparation products and equipment on the shelves as fresh food, and of course, a small number of decent teas.

What does it taste like?

This tea is so light it’s like a weak fruit blend – or maybe like perfumey Ribena without the sweetness. Not to say that it isn't tasty, it’s very pleasant and refreshing, if not exactly a flavour blast.

What does it look like?

In the plain white seats and benches the splash of colour on the teapot and cup is a nice touch, and these deep basket pots make for great cups of tea.

Where does it come from?

White tea is basically just one step away from green tea, except it has been picked when the leaves and buds are younger and processed a bit less, making it much lighter in flavour. Because of this, it’s often paired with fruit flavours, such as the blackcurrant in this one, which is supplied by Clement & Pekoe.

What effect does it have?

Left to steep for a good few minutes, this tea will give you a good hit of caffeine, but it’s so light it’s really better for a a late afternoon or evening break.

Where can I get it?

Clement & Pekoe teas are supplied to a handful of cafés around town, but of course you could just go directly to the source, to their South William St. shop.

Is it worth the try?

€3 is pretty standard for a good-sized pot of loose-leaf tea, but this one isn’t a very good investment if you’re looking for a pick-me-up.