Teavana Rose of Suzhou Green Tea

Reviewed by Andrea Steffy
January 07, 2007

Manufacturer: Teavana Website: Click Here Review Rating: 9 out of 10

Rose of Suzhou in full bloom. Photo by Andrea Steffy. Click image to enlarge.

Paving pathways to a more complete, hearty, and robust life of merriment. This brilliantly exhibited green tea consists of a single globe of the Amaranth flower beautifully hand-tied with Suzhou (the Venice of China). Blossoming as it steeps, this tea is sure to warm your heart and soul. Considered the tea of love, it's great for parties, special occasions, or a gift for the tea lover in your life. Studies have shown that green tea aids in detoxifying the body, regulating your blood sugar levels, and promoting healthy teeth, skin and bones.

This artistically displayed tea was the first thing to catch my eye. This quaint tea shop Teavana is full of beautifully displayed original teas and accessories. As this tea brews, it flowers. I had to have it. One ball can be brewed up to 5-6 times which I believe can make up to 21 cups of tea. Some would consider it a snobbish time pass, but to me having a cup of tea is relaxing and comforting. I had to take this opportunity to taste such a spectacular tea. Out came my camera as I was amazed at the blooming of tea.

Interesting tea facts, green tea has less caffeine than black tea due to the oxidation process. Caffeine in tea is released gradually into the bloodstream unlike coffee, so you won't end up all jittery as is the case for most with coffee. The preparation method similar to all Chinese green teas, rinse tea with a little hot water, pour more hot water and brew for 30 seconds, pour into cups. For the true tea connoisseur, recommend steeping for 1-4 minutes with a steaming water temperature of 150F-180F. Don't over steep tea, this will cause it to become bitter. If you are concerned about caffeine, you can decaffeinate your tea. Add hot water and steep for 2-3 minutes, discard the liquid, as this first brew contains most of the caffeine of the tea. Add water to your teapot and let it steep for 2-3 minutes and drink that infusion. This will ensure that it only has small amounts of caffeine. Over 80% of the caffeine is removed during the first wash of the leaves.

Opening the doors to health, wisdom and happiness™. Not exactly cheap at $18.00 USD per 2oz., but in my opinion you get what you pay for. The quality and smooth mellow flavor is well worth the price. The price can also be considered more appealing if you take into account that you can create numerous amounts of cups from one globe. Reminding me of the comforts of home, I felt relaxed, at ease and peaceful as I drank this tea. The flavor was smooth and mellow. A bright yellow tea with a sweet lingering fragrance. A mild tea believed to have a cooling effect on the body. I would definitely purchase and consume more of this tea, and other teas from Teavana.

More Images (click image to enlarge) :

Rose of Suzhou Green Tea out of the packaging.