News At SerendipiTea Australia!

Mate' at 30% off !!! Until the 12th of December

2011-12-05T23:50:00.001+11:00

For the next few days SerendipiTea is offering 30% off all online purchases of any of our Yerba Mate' Blends.
Until the 12th you can try the Chai like taste of Gaucho, the revitalizing straight Mate' & the uplifting and refreshing G'day Mate' at 30% off.
If you have not tried Mate' this is your chance!
If you've never heard of Mate' read on .... but the only way to get a taste of it is ...well... to get a taste of it!
Jump over to SerendipiTea and grab yourself a discount, you won't regret it.

Gaucho / Mate and mixed spice

Yerba Mate'

G'Day Mate' / Mate and Mint

Yerba Mate:
Yerba Mate, a ubiquitous S. American herb with deep cultural roots is native to Argentina, Brazil & Paraguay. The wild-grown holly shrub (Ilex paraguariensis), now formally cultivated, is found in the rainforest. Highly nutritious, loaded with anti-oxidants & numerous essential vitamins, like tea, Yerba Mate was used by indigenous people as food, beverage, medicine, a show of hospitality & even as currency. It contains matteine, a stimulant similar to caffeine yet much milder on the body with an energizing effect that doesn’t disrupt sleep or negatively react with the nervous system. Green Yerba Mate is grassy & herbaceous; Roasted is toasty & mellow. Steep the dried leaves in HOT rather than boiling water. Or, use a dried & hollowed, decorative Gourd as a vessel & sip through a Bombilla or filtered straw usually fashioned from stainless steel.

SerendipiTea & POTUS? ... we hope

2011-12-02T09:26:00.001+11:00

On his visit to NYC a few nights ago the POTUS had dinner at Gotham Bar and Grill.As President Obama is a known Tea lover and Gotham Bar and Grill offers a selection of SerendipiTea teas we have an expectation that he may have tried some of our fantastic teas or tisanes...

We are of course excited!Rest assured we will let you know how much he loved us!

Hobba

2011-11-23T02:00:00.000+11:00

It's been a while since we started Providing SerendipiTea to

Hobba

(428 commercial Rd)

and it has been going very well indeed!

on one of my many visits

I had the great pleasure to try their Warialda Belted Galloway beef burger

(lookit ... its so twee)

Gotta say it was

Fantastic!


The twee burger

and of course I paired it up with a pot of

Ruby Sipper

Drugstore Espresso

2011-11-22T16:00:00.000+11:00

We are happy to announce a new cafe has joined us in

our desire to bring the best Teas & Tisanes to

Melbourne,

Drugstore Espresso

at 194 Toorak Rd

South Yarra

This group is dedicated to showing you a good time

Great Food, Great Coffee

The best Artisan created Teas & Tisanes from SerendipiTea!

And as one of our "Retail Partners"

You can purchase SerendipiTea Retail Boxes for your enjoyment at home!

Take a tip from me ...

You have simply got to try the Pumpkin Pie!

The Tyranny of distance

2011-11-21T18:00:00.000+11:00

Just thought i'd let you know that "The Tyranny of Distance" a great cafe / reastaurant on Union street in Windsor is now featuring a cocktail using SerendipiTea's delicious Blood Orange Tisane Ruby Sipper It's called the "Luby Ruby Iced Tea" You should definately drop in for a taste.

Cold Drinks - Iced Teas & Tisanes

2011-11-21T10:03:00.001+11:00

Ahhh Melbourne!
A Great city with great weather....
The problem is you never know what that weather will be!
We know that the weather will turn from the seriously unsettled to seriously hot and that may happen at anytime!
So when you find yourself walking the hot streets and looking for a way to beat the heat we have an idea you may not have considered...
Iced Tea!

Eve's Temptation

We do have a number of venues that offer delicious cold drinks made from our astoundingly tasty teas & tisanes

Hobba, Miss Molly's Tea Lounge, Drugstore Espresso

and many others (watch this space for more venues)

will be offering drinks like the two you see featured here.

Above the crisp & delicious Granita-like drink

Eve's Temptation

SerendipiTea's Eve's temptation tisane, crushed ice & shaved apple

Another great idea is

Iced Chai Latte


Cold Chai Latte

Those that know, realize that SerendipiTea produces a number of Chai recipes

Marsala Chai (Traditional Chai), Moulin Rouge Chai (vanilla Chai)

Xocatlatl Chai ( Chocolate Chai... Yes cocolate!)

So the next time you're in one of the many venues that serve SerendipiTea

give a Iced tea or tisane a try!

Plantation

2011-11-21T09:40:00.001+11:00

If you've been in the Melbourne Central shopping complex recently

you would have noticed the new outlet for gourmet coffee

Plantation

open for business.

The thing that may interest readers here is that in addition to fine coffees

Plantation also offers the finest Teas & Tisanes

Yes... SerendipiTea is available at Plantation!

After our great reception at Sensory Lab @ David Jones we hope that you will drop in at Plantation.

It is our great pleasure to have this fantastic new coffee house recognize that tea is a part of
their business and further that our Artisan created teas & tisanes fit their model.

Plantation

Look for Cold Teas & Tisanes at all of SerendipiTea's partner cafes

Guatemalan Black Tea

2011-11-16T12:06:00.004+11:00

Every so often we get excited about a new blend or a new relationship with a plantation and today is one of those times... we are quite happy to announce that SerendipiTea will now offer a spectacular new Black Tea... Guatemalan Black!
This fantastic black tea comes from the Chirrepec Cooperative in Coban, Guatemala and has been grown in this region at 4300 feet above sea level since the late 19th century.
This is an exceptional Black tea!
You can expect to see it added to our offering in the upcoming weeks.

SerendipiTea & Genovese

2011-06-09T22:53:00.001+10:00

If you've been reading this blog lately you would have noticed that we are shining a light on our like minded friends, friends that sometimes

Now it's time to turn the focus onto one of our favorite friends
Genovese Coffee
Many of you have long relationships with Genovese and make frequent visits to their retail shop on in coburg to purchase fresh roasted coffee and maybe if you're lucky have a chat with Eleonora & Vanda and that is a great thing.

Now for a very limited time when you drop in at The Genovese retail store you can pick up a sample of SerendipiTea and you'll be able to taste for yourself whats so special about what we do and for a limited time you can also pick up a discount card that will get you 10% off any SerendipiTea product purchased at Genovese's retail store.
So ... the next time you're in the Genovese Retail store
look for this card

& the jar of sample packs on the counter... and if you like what taste ( and we're sure you will, then leave a comment on this blog or our Facebook page we'd love to hear from you.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

SerendipiTea & Sensory Lab @ David Jones

2011-05-30T09:15:00.001+10:00

You may have passed Sensory Lab on Thursday & Friday last week and noticed our tasting table set up outside the entrance on little Collins Street

We were quite happy that so many of you stopped to taste & talk about our Organic & Fair Trade teas & tisanes.
We hope you will take advantage of the discount cards we handed out.
The whole thing went so well you can expect that we will do further promo's in the future and also be sure that stop in and pick up the samples that will be available from time to time at the Sensory Lab front desk.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Tea Sampling at Sensory Lab @ David Jones

2011-05-25T01:41:00.001+10:00

By now you know that SerendipiTea has a strong relationship with our friends at Sensory Lab.
At this point we a a few promotions into our attempt to get you to know a bit more about SerendipiTea.
A large range, Organic, Fair Trade & eco ideals these are all part of SerendipiTea but it is always taste that is our first concern.

We think... what's the point of tea with a great pedigree if the taste isn't there?
So... next at Sensory Lab SerendipiTea will be letting you taste for yourselves why our Teas & Tisanes are so outstanding.
Drop into Sensory Lab this Thursday & Friday from 12:30 -2 pm and taste a few of our teas & tisanes and let us know what you think.
Takeaway a card like the one above and receive a discount on SerendipiTea online orders.
See you there !

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Tea Types - Sensory Lab @ David Jones

2011-05-17T00:00:00.006+10:00

Since the first tea leaf fell serendipitously into a waiting cup of hot water & then someone did it again
( or shortly after )
people have been politely at odds about what tastes better...

Green tea or Oolongs

Gen Mai Cha or Hojicha

Well... you follow.

As for this guy, I think its all great!

The warmth and fragrance of my drink, what ever it is, makes the big first impression and it's that promise of taste that means a lot to me.

Others want to watch their brew, see the leaves unfurl, watch the subtle changes in the color of the liquid.

I want to know what does it for you...

What type of teas & tisanes you most look forward to at tea time?

So lets try something...

For the next 2 weeks when you visit Sensory Lab you'll find a selection of SerendipiTea samples on the counter, green teas, Oolongs, tisanes, black tea they'll all be there I encourage you to pick one that moves you, take it home , taste it and then return to this Blog, our Facebook or Twitter pages and leave a comment about the tea you've tried.

As usual we'll give you something nice if you do. ( lets keep that a surprise )

So get down to

pick up a sample ( or two or three ) and let us know what you think.

What Tea type are you?

SerendipiTea @ Genovese

2011-05-16T18:28:00.000+10:00

Many of you that use & love Genovese coffee already know that SerendipiTea is available in their retail shop at 51 Moreland Road in Coburg.
It's been some time since we placed our iconic little brown boxes on their shelves and things have been going very well indeed...
So now we would like to offer the patrons of the Genovese retail store to the opportunity to try out SerendipiTea.
The next time you drop into Genovese in Coburg you can pick up a free sample of SerendipiTea to try at home or in your cafe.
We've worked hard on blending the best teas & Tisanes so we are sure you will love them.
Make sure you chat to Vanda about her favorite.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Cafes & Tea

2011-05-08T18:04:00.001+10:00

It follows that in my business get to spend a bit of time in cafes if your goal is to bring great tea to Melbourne than the wisest place to start would be the hundreds of cafes here.
However the beginning of my spending inordinate amounts of time in cafes leisurely enjoying beautiful pots of tea developed long before I ever hit Melbourne.
Truth be told it is one of the places I feel most comfortable to do just what I'm doing now writing in a journal...
Since my teen years, of course in earlier days there was no IPAD or internet I have committed time to structuring my thought as the thoughts of others float, drift & sometimes crash around me.
It is the time that a pot of tea is most beneficial the writing flows, the conversations flow and the raising and lowering of my cup is like a metronome counting out the beat of the room.
It could just be me ... but I find it soothing.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Mother's day Competition in Partnership with Sensory Lab.

2011-05-02T12:30:00.008+10:00

&

We are quickly approaching mother's day and we are all reflecting on memories of Mum and all she's done.
As we get closer to the day, many phone calls will be placed, cards will be posted & mother's day lunches will be planned.

We at SerendipiTea and our partners at Sensory Lab @ David Jones think its about time that we showed our appreciation for all that our mothers do so all this week leading up to Mother's Day we've decided we want to hear some stories about what make your Mum special!
So we are going to run a little competition in tribute to mothers everywhere!

It's really easy...
just drop into Sensory Lab @ David Jones ( 297 Little Collins Street ) anytime this week, grab an entry form and and jot down in 20 words or less why your mum is so special.
On Saturday May 7th we will draw 2 winners from all the entries and the winners will receive

1 x Japanese , cast iron pot
2 x Cups
1 x voucher for flowers for your Mum on mothers day
1 x retail box of SerendipiTea
2 x Clairvoyant tins of SerendipiTea

***We know not everyone can win so each entry submitted will receive 15% off any Retail Boxes purchased in store at Sensory Lab.
Also, we know that not everyone can get into sensory Lab @ David Jones ( although ... You really should try!)
you can receive 10% off retail boxes purchased online at www.serendipitea.com.au and entering the promo code "sensory lab"

So.. how's that ?
Come on down to Sensory Lab @ David Jones enter our competition and get the chance to win something nice for MUM, what could be better?

Breaking the tyranny of the teabag,

2011-03-04T23:16:00.002+11:00

There are lots of ways to enjoy great tea.

and even more places to sit back & savor that flavor...

at home

while picnicking

at a friends home

Did you notice that I didn't say at your local cafe ?

While tea is becoming a serious option in more cafes, we have not quite arrived at that glorious time when we could pick a cafe at random and be assured of a great pot of tea.

Why is it so difficult to get a great pot of tea at a cafe?

As I sit and ponder this question I am in melbourne, a town known for its penchant to fuss over hot beverages ...

well...

one beverage in particular but when it comes to tea it seems a teabag or powdered chai will suffice ( one day I'll go on & on about powdered chai's but not today)

It is about time this changed!

There are enough tea lovers in any town (even this caffine driven one) to require a better level of service and better quality of tea.

So what is the reason we as tea drinkers are getting the short end of the stick?

Let me tell you some of what i've heard :

"Loose leaf Tea takes too long to prepare" - I have seen people wait more than 15 minutes for the product of a barista tender machinations

"Loose leaf tea makes a mess"

Have you had a good look at whats going down behind that expresso machine?

"There are not enough tea drinkers to warrant taking a look at the teas we offer"

Really? In the last 5 years the tea market in Australia has grown from having just two majors players to at least 7!

Somebody must be drinking tea!

The fact is ( and I know this from tales told by my fellow tea lovers & sad personal experience ) tea lovers have become used to getting very little in fact, many, when out with their friends find it so futile that they simply order coffee.

This is unacceptable!

No... I say the time for excuses is over we all deserve real tea, great tea.

Just say NO to teabags!

One of the great things about western society is, the idea that the squeaky wheel gets the oil, so the next time you're in your local cafe don't stay silent while they push that tired old teabag on you...

Speak up!

Speak out!

Together we can break the tyranny of the teabag ....

First Melbourne... then the world!

Promotion: Tea of the month for March

2011-03-03T12:00:00.002+11:00

To tell you the truth I love promotions.

I love the idea of giving a little something back in return for all your support over the years... and it's a good way to keep in contact with how we're doing.

This one will be a two part promotion.

This promo will be a two parter.

Part 1

The announcement of the tea of the month for March

Fiji

Our deep, lush organic China green

tea flavored with Pineapple & a touch of Papaya.

Sip the journey

& escape. Award-Winning Ice-Tea!

If that's not enough every online order in March will receive 30% off!!

When you hit the checkout at serendipitea.com.au enter the code Fiji to receive your discount.

Check in Monday for part two of this promotion.

SerendipiTea retail Partner: Key ingredients, Clifton hill

2011-02-24T09:42:00.004+11:00

Up in Clifton hill right on Queens Pde you will find one of our retail partners Key ingredients.
If you're from Melbourne then you most likely know about them, Key ingredients is the place for high quality kitchenware, utensils, specialty & gourmet ingredients. If it belongs in the kitchen... You'll find it there!
Did you know that they are also a SerendipiTea retail partner?
Yes you will find a number of our varieties on the shelves at Key ingredients seems like a great fit to me.

Sensory Lab @ David Jones : Our new Retail Partner

2011-02-07T10:14:00.006+11:00

If you've been in Melbourne for more than 15 minutes you've already been told how much Melbournians love their coffee and how great the coffee is all around Melbourne... However, more often than not that statement is an over statement of the reality.
When it comes to Sensory Lab @ David Jones the statement above is a gross understatement!
From the moment you cross their doorway on Little Collins Street you can see their dedication to "the Bean" so many coffees ... so many ways to prepare them!
You may be asking ... whats with all the talk about "the Bean" from a blog dedicated to "The Leaf"?
Well for starters SerendipiTea can certainly appreciate quality & striving for excellence after all that's what we're about too, but this post is also an announcement that from today along side the eclectic range of coffees you will now find 7 of SerendipiTea's organic blends

Bards Tempest : our award wining English breakfast blend
Earl Grey : A Citrusy refreshing blend of Ceylon Black & Bergamot
Temple Of Heaven : Our distinctive and delicate Hand Rolled Green tea
Cha Cha Chai : A robust blend of Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Pepper, Cinnamon, Assam, Spices, Indian Black Tea
Ruby Sipper : A stunning Blood Orange Tisane
Eves Temptation : Apple tisane, Crisp & refreshing
Organic Mint : This is mint Au Naturale... a reminder that all mints are not created equal!

So from today on Sensory Lab will also offer the very best loose Leaf teas ... SerendipiTea!
So the next time you're in Melbourne CBD drop in Sensory Lab for a pot of SerendipiTea !

A tale of two Rococo's

2011-01-27T14:15:00.004+11:00

It seems almost unnecessary to mention this given the spectacular reception we have had ( by the way we thank you all) but SerendipiTea is now available at both Rococo restaurants. Rococo St Kilda was first closely followed by their Hawthorn location.
Rococo came onboard with all guns blazing taking careful consideration of the food pairing ideas we offered and from all reports their clientele are making SerendipiTea welcome at Rococo.
I went on down to Acland street one Sunday morning and paired up Rococo's Ricotta pancakes with lemon & blueberry with SerendipiTea's Fiji tea an absolute taste sensation! So now when you drop in at Rococo you have a place to start.

No Shortage of Retail Boxes

2011-01-13T12:59:00.003+11:00

Over the holiday season I received a few emails about the availability of SerendipiTea retail boxes it seems a few of our Retail Partners had sold out I am happy to say that now our partners have been restocked!

We have even added a couple of new partners you can now purchase retail boxes of SerendipiTea at:

Green Laundry Cafe 45 Nelson Street, Balaclava
Cafe Ciliegio at the Cnr Montague St & Kerferd Rd. Albert Park

.... While I'm here... make sure you check in next week for our New Year / New Tea promotion

A new place to get your SerendipiTea fix!

2010-12-09T13:51:00.005+11:00

There is another place to get your SerendipiTea fix!

If you find yourself in Elsternwick do drop in at the Artful Dodger on the corner of Glenhuntly road & Gordon St (just across from the Elsternwick station) great atmosphere, friendly service, and SerendipiTea what else could you ask for.

We seem to attract places that love to do things differently, you won't hear us complain about that we're all about doing things differently!
When you do drop in ask to take a look at their hip clear tea cup / pot it's quite nice!
Welcome to the Artful Dodger!
Guv'nor!

SerendipiTea Will it ever stop raining giveaway

2010-11-13T19:10:00.002+11:00

Ok ... The promise of spring was in the air but as anyone that lives in the beautiful city of Melbourne can tell you that promise can disappear quicker than my mothers sweet potato pie at family reunion time!

Just a few weeks ago I was mixing up cool cocktails at Cafe Dior in anticipation of the coming of spring and summer but still, in mid November, it's remains rainy & cold.
I am still hopeful though that one day soon we will enjoy a solid week without rain & temperatures in the high 20's - Hey...I can dream.
So... knowing as I do that in a few short weeks we will all likely be complaining about the heat and also knowing how much a tasty cool beverage can help beat the heat I am launching the inaugural ...

SerendipiTea " Will it EVER stop raining Giveaway!"

It's going to be real simple... The first 4 (four) readers to leave a comment on this post will receive 1 box each of SerendipiTea's "Eves Temptation" Tisane (Eve's temptation is our fantastically tasty, apple tisane - get it? Eve's temptation... apple)
Anyway... leave a comment & receive "Eve's temptation to make your own tasty, cool beverages when and if the weather changes!

Winners will be announced across all our media ( Facebook, Twitter & this blog ) Monday and will be advised how to claim their prize.

What can you do with tea ?

2010-11-10T11:08:00.003+11:00

Well when you're talking about SerendipiTea we come to a very big answer ...
I am fond of saying... just about daily... that the uses of quality tea is only bounded by your own imagination!
We have had our clients use SerendipiTea in so many ways that I think it calls for a special post!

Our friends at Cafe Dior are using Cha Cha Chai, Congo Bongo and others for cold cocktails & Mocktails, and Chef Mikey has created a fantastic Slice with everyone favorite Ruby Sipper.
Our Friends at Esposito Seafood have created a salmon dish using a reduction of Ruby Sipper and I hear it is fabulous I'll be tasting that one personally soon ( there are no lengths I will not go to for this blog! :-) )
Soon ( watch this space ) Cafe Moravia in Camberwell will soon be serving Iced teas, Tea Mocktails & some very special tea Gelati from their newly renovated juice bar at the back of Moravia just where they hold the Camberwell markets each Sunday ... That's handy!
Chocolatiers have long been using our teas in their fine works ... Cha Cha Chai, Congo Bongo, Xocatlatl Chai (our award winning chocolate chai), Ruby Sipper & Black Velvet have all been used in handmade chocolates. ( there will be a special post on chocolates soon)
One tea lover has written in and described a smoking process using Bard's tempest & another with a recipe for pork with a reduction of Eve's Temptation ( our Apple tisane )

So, Yes Virginia... there are many ways to enjoy our teas besides the obvious hot in a glass.
So have fun with your tea or better yet make a visit to one of our favorite cafes and see what they're doing!

A cocktail Night at Cafe Dior

2010-10-01T13:27:00.013+10:00

A couple of weeks ago at Cafe Dior Commercial rd, Prahran Serendipitea had the great pleasure to be part of a function put together by the management to launch their spectacular new menu.

While the guests sampled selections from Dior's new tapas menu and discussed the new direction & later hours I was behind the bar cooking up a few Tea Cocktails.
There was a crowd of about 100 and let me tell you they were all very thirsty!
I selected a few of my favorite recipes using Ruby Sipper (Blood Orange Tisane), Fiji (Sencha Green Tea, Pineapple & Papaya), Congo Bongo (Black Tea Coconut & Mango), Eve's Temptation ( Apple Tisane ) & Cha Cha Chai ( Our award winning Chai) , using those teas I worked up about 8 cocktails using, Gin, Vodka, baileys, Kahlua, ice, banana, mango, orange, lemon, lime, cranberry juice & mint... the proportions are a tightly held secret known only to me and my clients.The night went along fantastically and I think as the weather turns we will do a few more events like this to show how much can be done with SerendipiTea's teas.

SerendipiTea Retail Partners: Cafe Moravia

2010-09-15T11:49:00.007+10:00

We are glad to announce that we have added Caffe Moravia at 662 Burke Rd, Camberwell to our ever growing list of Retail Partners.
Caffe Moravia offers a wide selection of fine Italian cuisine, Delectable pastry's & fresh Gelato made right there in house!
Moravia will be a premier site for SerendipiTea in the coming months you can look forward to seeing some very special new products and events centered around it including the new cafe bar at the rear that faces onto the Camberwell markets.

Over the coming weeks Caffe Moravia will be expanding it's offering of SerendipiTea for your enjoyment at Moravia & retail boxes for enjoyment at home.

In the very near future look forward to some in shop tastings and the addition of a line of delicious Mock-Tails based on SerendipiTea's amazing teas.

A tasting at Sofitel's No 35

2010-09-15T01:16:00.004+10:00

Last Saturday on a clear and sunny day I had the pleasure of talking with a handful of people about 7 varieties of SerendipiTea.
The venue was the beautiful restaurant on the 35th floor of Melbourne's Sofitel Hotel, with it's panoramic views of the city.
Know, I love talking about tea.
It's even better when I get to speak with a group that was so interested as the staff of No. 35!
It's even better still when a tasting is involved!
We tasted :

Black Velvet
Darjeeling
Congo Bongo
Temple Of Heaven
Bancha
Jade Prince
Moulin Rouge Chai

Truth be told the group so switched on that their taste told them all they needed to know ... no one had a problem picking out the smokey undertones of the Moulin Rouge, or the "nutty" flavor of Jade Prince or the mango & coconut of Congo Bongo.
It was a fantastic afternoon filled with tea & conversation and what could be better than that.

Good works from Charityworks for Multiple Sclerosis

2010-09-15T00:46:00.003+10:00

Just a while back SerendipiTea had the great honor of participating by donating our teas to a charity function to benefit those with Multiple Sclerosis.
We would have said something sooner about this great night at Crown Casino but Charityworks did such a fantastic job that the event was sold out far in advance of the night.
We will be working with this organization again soon so watch this space for news.

SerendipiTea Retail Partners : Cafe Ciliegio

2010-09-06T15:52:00.000+10:00

Down in Albert Park, Melbourne on the Cnr Montague St & Kerferd Rd you will find another fine Cafe / Restaurant that proudly serves SerendipiTea and also offers retail boxes for your home.
Cafe Ciliegio has a lovely outside cafe area right out front, you have no doubt seen it if you have driven down Kerferd road, if you read the reviews available you will read many words about the austere coffee available there and of course... I write to tell you about the equally austere tea (SerendipiTea) that they offer however if you think that Cafe Ciliegio is only about tasty beverages you would be so wrong.
The food is a delectable treat...
Modern Asian? But so much more !
Well I guess that says it but I just think great food defines itself so just get in there and give it a try you won't be disappointed.

Cafe Ciliegio Cnr Montague St & Kerferd Rd
Albert Park VIC 3206

When you get there... Tell Frank that SerendipiTea sent you.

SerendipiTea Retail Partners : Green Laundry@cafe

2010-08-09T11:17:00.000+10:00

We have a very unique partner in Balaclava.
Green laundry Cafe is at 45 Nelson Street in Balaclava and they specialize in as the name suggest Ecologically sound laundry services, coin machines that use low energy as well as Daisy Eco dry cleaning.... This is all very nice but you may be asking what does this have to do with tea ?
Well... besides all of the above services, a WIFI hotspot a small internet cafe, Green Laundry is also a Organic and Fair Trade Cafe that proudly serves SerendipiTea as you might expect from the title of this series of posts Green Laundry Cafe is another location that you can purchase your favorite SerendipiTea blends in our 100% post consumer recycled packages.
So if you are looking for a place to enjoy SerendipiTea in Balaclava Drop in at Green Laundry Cafe.

SerendipiTea Retail Partners: Shocolate

2010-07-28T10:49:00.003+10:00

Now if you love chocolate like I do you really owe it to yourself to drop in at Shocolate in Johnston Street, Fitzroy.
For my money the fact that they have fantastic handmade chocolates is quite enough to get me in the door, but if you're the type that needs a little more know this... while you're there you can get a look into the activity that is in my opinion the height of human endeavor... more important than space travel, 0r anything they got goin' on at the United Nations or even the upcoming election! That's right... Shocolate has put in a viewing window so that you can watch the chocolate being made!
So... to recap... you got chocolate , a look into the wonderful world of chocolate making & SerendipiTea!
What else could you possibly expect from a cafe?

Johnston Street Just off Brunswick.

Get In there!

SerendipiTea Retail Partners : The Brunswick Flour Mill

2010-06-11T15:51:00.005+10:00

If you've been down Sydney road here in Melbourne you have most likely driven past the Brunswick Flour Mill Cafe.
Our good friends there are part of our drive to raise the standard of tea service, and break the "Tyranny of the Tea Bag"

When you go into the Brunswick Flour Mill or it's sister Cafe Aquarium you will only find the finest quality loose leaf tea & tisanes.
We will post short notices on our Retail Partners that believe as we do that only the best will do, when you see them you'll know that not only do they serve SerendipiTea but they also have Retail Boxes for sale so you can enjoy the best at home.
If you visit any of our Retail Partners let us know.

SerendipiTea Retail Partners : Aquarium

2010-06-11T15:48:00.005+10:00

One of our newest partners is a quite special cafe / music shop on High street, Northcote called Aquarium.
You may recognise some faces from "The Brunswick Flour Mill" and it is true Aquarium has the same quality service, decor, smiling faces Artisan baked bread , pastries and of course SerendipiTea both in your cup & in takeaway boxes!

One thing that is a bit different is the open plan design that has incorporated a walk-through to a Rare vinyl /Book/ CD/DVD supplier and take my word for it, there are some very interesting bit to be added to your collection.
So there it is another place to enjoy SerendipiTea and much more.

Stay tuned for more on Aquarium in upcoming posts.

SerendipiTea Retail Partners : Community Store at Abbotsford convent

2010-05-27T11:15:00.015+10:00

You may not know it but on the grounds of the Abbotsford Convent there is a new general store/Gallery/cafe/bookstore.
The store has a eclectic assortment of goods for sale gourmet teas to chewing gum and more.
The Gallery exhibits works from local artists in just about every medium, paint, sculpture, photography you name it it's all there.
The Cafe consits of a scattering of tables (the tables themselves are works of art) around the room where one can sit, take in the art works enjoy a great cup of tea & a sweet.
The Bookstore small though it may be the selection of title are guaranteed unique not the ones you'll see in the big bookstores.
Drop in and talk to Cameron and let him tell a bit about his plan for his great space!

SerendipiTea Retail Partners : Hopetoun Tea Rooms

2010-05-27T11:15:00.011+10:00

Every week I get calls from tea lovers asking where they can buy SerendipiTea retail.
My reply to their inquiries is always that SerendipiTea has cultivated partnerships with many retailers that proudly serve our fine Teas & Tisanes and offer them for sale for their customers to enjoy at home and this is true but I thought that in the next few posts I would focus on a few of them so that you could get to know them a bit better.

Lets start with our good friends at The Hopetoun Tearooms
Just about everyone in Melbourne has heard of the Hopetoun Tearooms in the Block Arcade off Collins street.
This Melbourne staple has been serving delicious cakes, sandwiches and of course tea for over a century!
All the delights you would have found in a turn of the century tea house are still there.
Hopetoun have been proudly serving SerendipiTea exclusively for a little over two years and due to demand, they are also selling a variety of our blends in retail boxes for your enjoyment at home.
If you are in the CBD you really owe it to yourself to stop in at The Hopetoun Tea Rooms and tell them you heard about it here.

SerendipiTea Retail Partners : Chocolattea

2010-05-27T11:14:00.004+10:00

Chocolattea in Strathmore is a tasty oasis, the first thing you'll notice is the design & decor it is a fantastic looking place without being cold or sterile it is warm & welcoming of families and neighborhood regulars.
Part cafe, part chocolateria and much more you can also find tea & coffee accessories.
For such a small footprint Chocolattea has much more that it's share of chocolate, too many to list here, gourmet coffee and of course SerendipiTea

Times have changed, for the better.... and we have moved on..

2010-05-17T11:34:00.007+10:00

If you have walked along Greville street, Prahran lately you would have discovered that our shop "Express Life" has closed, however this is not cause for sadness because even though that location on Greville street has served us well for over two years it is your very positive response to SerendipiTea has made it necessary for us to move on to a larger location and shift our focus to servicing our ever expanding list of wholesale clients.
You should know that while we have moved out of our retail location we have definitely not forgotten about our many retail customers... SerendipiTea's wonderful Organic and fair trade teas are now and will always be available online at www.serendipitea.com.au and your enquiries are always welcome at our office phone 03 9383 4442, fax 86100113 & mobile 0458442224.
So many of you have been so positive about our teas and we thank you all... and if you love our teas ( and I know you do ) check in at this blog, our facebook page or follow our Tweets for some
fantastic "thank you" offers, additions to our growing list of cafe and restaurant clients and our new SerendipiTea Tea Ambassador program! ... ( More about that soon)

Mate & Mocktail Masterclass a little Press !

2010-03-11T10:13:00.003+11:00

(Photo Courtesy of newsphotos.com.au)

By now I hope you have heard bout SerendipiTea's Mate & Mock-tail masterclass this Sunday 14 March on Greville Street,
It will be two hours of information on Yerba Mate' & SerendipiTea's award winning cocktail recipes ( of course we will not be using alcohol that's why we use the word mock-tails) our friends at The Stonington leader has published a couple of articles on the event, you can read one Here & the other Here.
There are still a few places available to book
call Express Life On Ph : 03 9510 4334

Reviews ... Reviews ... Reviews!

2010-02-24T15:31:00.003+11:00

You know I love reviews ( especially when they're good) so I am linking this one from Purely Tea
for SerendipiTea's "Fiji" but it's more than just a positive review it shows a continuity of quality because even though this review was posted a while ago all the qualities that are written about will still be found in the box you'll pick up tomorrow!

Fiji Review

Mate's & Mocktails : A Masterclass

2010-02-16T09:24:00.006+11:00

SerendipiTea Australia is putting on another Masterclass !!
In partnership with "The Tastes of Chapel Festival"
This time there will be two subjects ... the first subject will be the phenomenal South American tisane Yerba Mate' !
Yerba Mate' has been used for thousands of years and is linked to health, well being and a deep social bonding experience. We believe that this is the year that Mate' will become better appreciated in Australia, so we will do our part to help shed some light on this fantastic tisane!

The second subject will be pure fun!

Tea & Tisane Mock-Tails !
Over the years SerendipiTea has been at the forefront of rethinking how teas and tisanes can be used, and a by product of that quest for the new has been a stockpile of exceptional Cocktail recipes but of course our shop has no liquor license so we remove the alcohol and what remains are exceptional Mock-tails!
Teas , Tisanes, fruits, juices & a bit of a flourish.
Your taste buds will not believe the flavors !

To reserve a spot contact us on

Ph: 03 9510 4334

or even better visit us at

Express Life / SerendipiTea
143 Greville Street
Prahran

Words , words , words

2010-01-05T00:33:00.003+11:00

Words are fantastic!

They can be persuasive, poetic, descriptive ... beautiful and also on the other side of the coin they can be deceptive and nebulous...
For example take the words Single Origin, for some it is now becoming a generic term meaning "quality" when the truth is far from that.
Single origin can be a great thing in tea production, it can assure a quality product but it is far from the end all, we must consider where that origin is... is it a known plantation in India that has been producing quality leaf, or is it a new plantation in Brooklyn!
Now don't get me wrong I am a great lover of Brooklyn and I will have no bad words said about her!
However... Brooklyn as diverse as it is has never been known for producing great teas... so there's the thing... a tea can come from a place well known for tea, claim single origin and still taste like a bit of Brooklyn.
So don't give too much weight to the words the next time you try a new tea ... trust your nose & taste buds they won't lead you astray!

... But they never mention taste!

2009-12-28T09:53:00.003+11:00

When I read the reviews of some other teas or the companies that produce them I am astounded by the fact that each one seems to find a way to avoid what to my mind is a very basic characteristic of tea .... the flavor!
I wonder what would make them avoid the subject?

You'll notice when we get reviewed the first thing written (as in the one above... thanks Karen Salken) is about taste... this is our focus!
Yes, we do single origin, organic, eco packaging and as much as we care about all these things (and we do! ) what would it matter if the taste wasn't there!
We make a great effort to create unique blends and we go to great lengths to assure that our oolongs are smooth and luxuriant, our greens are crisp & fresh so we are proud when it gets noticed.

So when you hear about other teas that claim this or that ... ask yourself ... " I wonder why they didn't mention taste?

Just read an article titled "Tea gets a quality infusion"

2009-12-07T10:21:00.006+11:00

It is a fact that SerendipiTea has done a lot of great work over the years to raise the profile of tea, tea drinkers, single origin, fair trade & organic tea manufacturing, so when I recently read the article quoted in the title of this post I was a bit concerned.
I guess that after just under a year of SerendipiTea returning to Australia it might be expected that some points points about what SerendipiTea does and how we operate that are generally very well known around the world may not have been communicated clearly here in OZ...

Let's try to correct that!

Let it be known, that our mission is to raise the profile of tea & tea drinkers and further single origin, fair trade & organic tea manufacturing and much much more... in general to bring the tea lover out of second class status and into a place where the tea offered is of the same quality that is currently enjoyed by coffee drinkers, this is what our founder Tomislav Podreka had in mind at the start... all those years ago right here in Melbourne!
The accomplishments of Tomislav are well documented through his work with chefs, culinary institutes, tea organizations and plantations world wide.

Now pardon me if I show my passion a bit here but as my job everyday is tea... I know what is available out there and I am also fully aware of the bold steps taken by SerendipiTea to shake up the perception of Tea and to raise this drink out of the shadow... the rather long shadow, cast by coffee in this town (Melbourne) I hope and am trying to bring to an end the day when a bag dropped into a cup of hot water, or sub standard loose leaf served in a stainless hospital grade pot is truly over!
There is much more enjoyment to be had from a great cup of tea than is currently acknowledged.
But ...
It doesn't all go unnoticed... In my last Tea Master Class I was very happy to speak to a room full of tea lovers and future tea lovers that were very interested in how much pleasure could be derived from a cup of tea and stunned by how far the flavor palette can be stretched.
In the end we will continue as we have been, championing the merits of tea and in particular fair trade , single origin & organic tea and now I guess we will redouble our efforts to get in the faces of the foodies.

The Book is Back!

2009-11-25T09:14:00.003+11:00

What book you may say...
SerendipiTea : A guide to the varieties, origins and rituals of tea

This informative book, written by Serendipitea's co-founder Tomislav Podreka was originally published in 1998 , this 2nd edition was edited & redesigned by (co-founder of SerendipiTea) Linda Villano.
This book tells the story of tea of all types, passes on a few complementary recipes and through the knowledge Tomislav Podreka has cultivated brings the world of tea to life.
At 152 pages I was sorry to come to the end!

We are very happy to let you know that the book is available for $22.95 at Express Life (143 Greville St Prahran) & online at www.serendipitea.com.au

If you have an interest in tea ... do yourself a favour and pick up a copy.

SerendipiTea Master Class

2009-11-13T00:58:00.006+11:00

SerendipiTea held it's first tea master Class Tuesday night in Port Melbourne at the neighborhoods new cafe Seven:am
When Jason of Seven:am came up with the idea of holding a Master Class at his place I was instantly on board, we had been planning a similar event at our place (Express Life ) and we will be holding one soon but I digress...
By 7 pm the room was filled with tea lovers, ready to sample what Serendipitea had to offer.
I had selected 12 blends from our line to talk about and to sample and in just about 2 hours it was going to be tight.

We discussed , look, feel, aroma, and most importantly taste!
I think it went quite well ...
Big thanks go out to Jason , Jacqui & Ben at Seven:am

Stay tuned for our next tasting night.

Winner : Best organic retail outlet in victoria !

2009-11-06T17:52:00.002+11:00

No it's not our little shop in Prahran (Maybe some day)
This year during Organic Week the honor went to the fantastic Passion Foods in middle park!
I was lucky enough to be there at the presentation.
Quite an honor for our friends at Passion Foods
Congratulations Steve and crew

SerendipiTea and Seven:am Cafe Present a tea master class

2009-10-30T14:42:00.003+11:00

Ok Kids get your datebooks out ... Flip to Tuesday November 10 2009 and mark down in ink SerendipiTea & seven :am tea master class

The night will include:

Tea information& history
Brewing Tips
Informative discussions on tea types
Seven: am's Head chef will provide light dishes

We will be joined on the night by author & Shakuhachi (Japanese Flute) player Camellia Cha who will Play & also read from her book 'Curiosi - Tea'.

This will be a Tea event not to be missed so book in on 90785776 or email jason@sevenam.com.au

Tea Mocktails - Ruby Sipper

2009-10-28T11:16:00.003+11:00

Talent can manifest itself in many ways ...
some have a talent for talk, others for graphic arts... it goes on & on ...
I think no matter what your medium is the basic point is the creative is able to take seemingly disparate ideas or things rework them and create a whole new result.
Yesterday while I was meeting with a new client the Barista in the venue (Roberto) was creating an original mock-tail from one of SerendipiTea's tisanes out the back in the kitchen!
He combined Ruby sipper, kiwi fruit, lemon and a few other ingredients & a flair for presentation to create the drink pictured above.
Not too shabby for a few minutes work!
Watch this space for more on the venue and the mixologist.

National Organic Week

2009-10-16T09:26:00.005+11:00

In Case you didn't know it today is the start of National Organic Week!
... as it says on the National Organic Week Website

"NOW is 10 days of targeted media and locally-staged activities designed to increase awareness of the benefits of organic products and farming production systems and accelerate the uptake of these in the wider Australian community and environment.

The week will be launched at

Passion Foods an exceptional Organic market at

219 FERRARS STREET, SOUTH MELBOURNE

From the 16th-24th October 2009
Demonstrations In-store Daily

Launched by Ben Hardman MP
Friday 16th October, 2009 at 10.30am
Parliamentary Secretary to the Victorian Minister for Agriculture

I strongly suggest you check out the National Organic Week website and see for yourself how easy it can be to live a bit more sustainably.

October's tea of the month... Par Amour!

2009-10-12T10:23:00.006+11:00

October's tea of the month is Par Amour A delicate blend of Strawberry & Hibiscus

This blend will add a bit of joy to your cup!

Crisp, tart & delicate perfect for that midday lift!

So until the end of October when you come into Express life you will receive 10% off boxes of Par Amour.

Words of praise Thanks Authoritea!

2009-09-23T09:06:00.003+10:00

We do love it when someone has words of praise for SerendipiTea!!

Our friends at Authoritea have a few nice things to say about our Black & Blue Blend.

Click the pic above or here to check out their blog.

Seven AM Cafe Opens

2009-08-21T09:05:00.006+10:00

Yes ... another exceptional cafe joins the "friends of SerendipiTea!
This time it's a brand new Cafe/Restaurant in Bay Street Port Melbourne

Seven AM Cafe
155 Bay Street
Port Melbourne

The doors opened yesterday so it is still early days but the look and feel is already there.
The team at Seven AM have painstakingly renovated their new home into a comfortable, personality filled sanctuary the perfect place to kick back have a great coffee or TEA :)
and see what Ben is cooking up in the kitchen!
There are three words that the staff at Seven AM have come up with to convey their point ...Eat, Drink, Be! I think it says a lot.

I am sure that Seven AM is going to become The place to be in Bay Street , so waste no time ... get in and say Hello to Jase, Ben and the staff at Seven AM, wish them luck and soak up some of the warm atmosphere they have created just for you.

Tea of the month for August

2009-08-03T10:09:00.003+10:00

August's tea of the month is Buccaneer! Our very Stimulating & different Organic Black tea with Chocolate, Vanilla, Rooibos & toasted coconut!

This blend will add a bit of surprise to your cup!
The crisp coconut, vanilla & chocolate complement each other perfectly and dance across the base blend of Organic black tea & Rooibos.
A great blend for anytime of day.

So until the end of August when you come into Express life you will receive 10% off Buccaneer.

Tea of the month for June... EXTENDED!

2009-07-24T09:00:00.006+10:00

July's tea of the month has been Colonille Our very uplifting Black tea with French Vanilla.
This one has gone so well that we have had to extend it another month!
We thank you all for your response!
So until the end of July when you come into Express life you will receive 10% off Colonille.

As we grow ...

2009-07-21T12:20:00.008+10:00

We do from time to time find a venue that loves tea as much as we do.
As we grow and add more and more clients to our family I think it is only right and proper that we let you know a bit about who they are and what they do.

Cafe # 5 website

Cafe # 5 is located in the heart of Melbourne's CBD in the funky Centre Place lane way.
If you have visited Centre place then you know how busy it can get people moving through in both directions to and from work, past the 1/2 dozen or so cafes in that delightful urban bottleneck.
As you enter from the Little Flinders street side the first cafe you'll come across will be Cafe #5
Soups, Panini, muffins , coffee and of course SerendipiTea Teas!
Now it may look busy in #5 but believe me the personal touch is there as their regulars know, Friendly staff and great food for breakfast or lunch what more could you ask for?

The next time you're rushing down Centre Place do yourself a favor and grab a seat, one of Sam's famous Raspberry / white chocolate muffins & a nice cuppa Fiji or Ruby Sipper.

FREE SHIPPING!

2009-07-15T01:21:00.002+10:00

We are so happy and proud about our new website that we have decided to celebrate by offering free shipping for online orders in the month of July!
That's any order placed at www.serendipitea.com.au so if you don't know our tea already ... this is a perfect opportunity to get to know us!

SerendipiTea Australia - NEW WEBSITE!!!!

2009-07-13T09:59:00.004+10:00

That's right
Our site is now up and functional!!
Now you don't have to come down to our shop in Greville st. (although we love to see you)

Info, images, & online buying are all available at www.serendipitea.com.au
Drop by and take a look, we think you'll like it, sign up to this blog or SerendipiTea newsletter to be notified about special offers.

Tea of the month for June

2009-06-17T15:12:00.005+10:00

Colonille

French Vanilla & Vietnamese black tea

A Tasty alternative to a Standard English Breakfast

Sumptuous, graceful & inviting.

A tea that kindles elegant evenings, sweet thoughts & long walks. Beautiful bouquet with a distinct chocolatey taste, coupling the vanilla, finished with a full red colour, rich palate & distinct memory

All month you can purchase Colonille at 10% OFF!

SerendipiTea Australia now on facebook!

2009-04-30T09:36:00.003+10:00

Yes that's right you can now find us on Facebook
Now you can get even more info about your favorite tea! Here

Tea of the month for May

2009-04-29T15:03:00.003+10:00

Hi all!
Just posting to let you all know that this Month's feature tea is...

Holiday Cheer!

A delicious Apple fruit blend W/ mixed spice ( Peppermint, Cloves, Cardamon, Spearmint, orange peel, Ginger & black tea)
Perfect for the turn of the season!
A warm, fragrant blend of warming spices & festive orange peel, invigorating mint & a touch of black tea for fortitude.

As always we offer this blend to our wholesale customers at a discounted price throughout the month of may, So come out of the cold, grab a seat beside the fire and give it a try ... we know you'll love it

Why choose SerendipiTea?

2009-04-07T15:11:00.004+10:00

There are so many tea companies around these days... why would you choose SerendipiTea?
They ALL produce tea so what difference does it make?
One tea is just as good as any other ... Right?

Well... simply put.... No!

Just like wines or coffees there are many factors that make something very simple into something EXTRAORDINARY!

Of course to start with our blends are the reason so many are making the switch to SerendipiTea, as with any product that hopes to be outstanding in it's field the quality has got to start with the ingredients, our teas and tisanes are sourced from the finest single plantations in the locations known to cultivate the best tea varieties and fruits.
And then the blends... 300 + fun distinctive innovative combinations
Yes we have the flavor... but beyond that, we create blends that have a difference!

For example this months "Tea of the month" Ruby Sipper A blood orange tisane that presents bright red in your glass and from the first sip fills your mouth with the tart , crisp, citrus flavor of true blood orange... Now that's different!

Chocolate Teas, Chai's, Fruit Teas and tisanes all blended with one result in mind... to be distinctive.
So ... does tea make a difference?
Yeah... We think it does!

Dannii Minogue Drops in at SerendipiTea!!

2009-03-27T15:26:00.005+11:00

Well will wonders never cease?
Two days ago while I was going about my work-a-day who strolls into the shop?
None other than the lovely, talented, delightful, actress, singer, TV Judge ....
Oh I can't draw it out any longer!!!
Dannii Minouge!!! YAY!
* Just in case you have all lost your minds she's the one on the left the guy on the right some "tea guy" (I really did think, at the time that my smile was a lot wider)
To justify putting this on the SerendipiTea blog ... she did take away a box of Tea.
She browsed, chatted and posed for the pic above... and I ran right out and got a lottery ticket after, cause clearly it was my lucky day!
Who would have thought my job would offer me a brush with Dannii!
So you see tea really IS good for you!

Melbourne's Age / Epicure article on SerendipiTea !

2009-02-26T11:11:00.004+11:00

I guess it's no surprise that when someone says something nice about us we feel happy & proud, and if words of praise come from such a respected source as The Age - Epicure food supplement ... well we want to shout it out a bit!
We thank the Age for giving us a bit of their coveted space and saying a few nice words about our teas.

Tea & Food Pairings

2009-02-18T11:47:00.000+11:00

Occasionally, during my days talking about tea questions arise about pairing tea & food.
Luckily for me SerendipiTea's founder has collected so much information on this subject that we can all benefit from.

Tea, like wines can complement the meals that they are served with and this works across the board ... soups , cheese, meats from the humble burger to full multi-course gastronomic experiences, the right tea can make the difference.

By now most of us have experienced a great sushi or sashimi meal that was only made more memorable when the green tea comes, or Ceylon green along with chili or garlic prawns but there is much more that tea can do to enhance a meal.

So let's take a look at

SerendipiTea & Asian foods

An obvious place to start when pairing teas with Asian food is with seafood.
Gen Mai Cha , Sencha, Temple of heaven, Hojicha & Kokeicha are the obvious choices with fresh seafood dishes. these delicious green teas are perfect matches with seafood and rice.

Pouchong, and lightly oxidized oolongs like Fu Man Chu, Se Chung, Jade Prince Buddha's Finger & Jasmine Yin Hao go particularly well with sweet rich seafood, like lobster & scallops.

Black teas like Ceylon, Darjeeling, Darjeeling 1st & 2nd Flush, Keemun, Nameste & even Bolivian Black will work well with full flavored meats, curries, pastries and darker sauces.

For chicken, meats & food rich with oils or animal fats Pu-erh like Fu Man Chu, Jasmine Yin Hao or Casanova.

Now, there are some tips on pairings with all types of Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese meals and more... now get out there (or even at home) and give tea a try ... It will add to the richness of life!
Hey countless billions of people can't be wrong !

More Varieties Now available! The 2nd half

2009-01-23T10:16:00.004+11:00

The previous post was only the start...

Forever Spring - Oolong Tea

This lovely oolong from the Song Bo region in Nantou is produced year-round. Enjoy the
unique blossom-like fragrance & strong honey & pineapple notes.

Jade Prince - Oolong Tea

Light oxidation & color, sweet flavor with buttery notes & hints of pineapple. From the famed Nantou Province.

Se Chung - Oolong Tea

A lightly oxidized leaf, this initially nutty oolong reveals the subtle sweetness of brown sugar in its amber cup.

Gen Mai Cha - Green Tea

During a WWII tea shortage in Japan, the enterprising Japanese added husked rice to the tea leaves to extend the life of their tea supplies serendipitously creating a classic tea enjoyed by countless people around the world. Light green with delicate barley taste.

Hojicha - Green Tea

Roasted green bancha. A crisp & nutty taste with a light refreshing liquor that accompanies meals perfectly. Familiar & comforting.

Kokeicha - Green Tea

Intriguing, vibrant Japanese green tea made from powdered Sencha. Mixed with a bit of water, & then pressed through molds producing uniform, spaghetti-like bits. Maximum flavor & benefits.

Temple of heaven - Green Tea

Made in the pearl or gunpowder tradition, hand-rolled into tiny pellets that unfurl into long green banners of satisfaction. Mildly smoky tea from Zhejiang Province with a fresh, clean palate.

Fresh Phrase - Strawberry, Hibiscus, Chinese Green

Sweet, aromatic tang of strawberries nestled among the sweet, fresh notes of green tea. A lazy, comfortable tea that gives you a moment & then inspires action!

Razzle Dazzle 'em - Raspberry, Fruit Blend, Indian Green (Dooars)

Give ‘em the ol’ Raspberry Fruit Blend ~ Razzle Dazzle ‘Em with the sharp, green notes of this Organic, Fair Trade, Single Estate Tea partnered with show-stopping Really Raspberry taking center stage.

Slow Swing - Blueberry, Fruit Blend, Indian Green (Dooars)

Find your thrill with this easy-sipping Blueberry Blend. Paired with a big enough green base, this cup will lead with the tea then follow with the fruit.

Smart Tart - Hibiscus, Chinese Green

A winning blend! Hibiscus loaded with vitamin C & Green tea also loaded with vitamin C & a mental stimulant to boot!

What A Pear! - Pear, Indian Green (Dooars)

Deliciously juicy ~ soft Organic Green Tea blended with tender pieces of Pear! We are grateful to Homer for this divine fruit…not that Homer, but the original.

Snow White - Apple, White Tea, Pai Mu Dan

This blend will reawaken you from a sweet mid-day slumber. Fill your cup & pucker up.

Gaucho - Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Yerba Mate

A simple embellishment on the staple of the Argentine cowboy. *Yerba Mate contains
Matteine which is similar to Caffeine.

Yerba Mate' - Yerba Mate

Intense grassy & highly stimulating! *Yerba Mate contains Matteine which is similar to Caffeine.

Chaucer's Cup - Apple, Mango, Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Fruit, Spices

A warm fragrant infusion of spices & fruit reminiscent of a traditional mulled spice cider.
Best enjoyed before an open fire!

Citralicious - Mint, Lemon Myrtle

Tingling, refreshing & invigorating. A stimulating combination that energetically provokes the mind to mischievous thought.

Eve's Temptation - Apple, Mango

Pure Fruit! Excellent for children or the child within. Sweet & full of flavor - try it hot or iced.

Fellini's Folly - Mint, Rooibos

Aromatic & tasteful. Seemingly absurb, bizarrely refreshing. The Organic Version.

Ginger - Ginger

The age-old, tried & true digestive ~ straight forward ginger root.

Hibiscus - Hibiscus

Sweet tart sensation of flavor, a beautiful open flower that nestles in the bottom of your cup.
Just drop in & top with hot water. Sweeten with honey or enjoy the color & spectacle on its own.

Monk's Mead - Apple, Mango, Chamomile

Soft, fragrant & nostalgic. For this unusual combination we have to thank Liz. Thanks Liz!

Par Amour - Strawberry, Hibiscus

Sweet, sharp & enticing, a pairing that is both complimentary & antagonistic. Wonderful hot or iced with a distinct taste that leads the heart to beat a little faster.

Rubby Sipper - Blood Orange

The aggressive notes of blood orange softened
by the suggestive sweetness of pear create a fruit tisane that is full bodied & refreshing.

Ssssspicey - Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Pepper, Cinnamon

Strong, spicy notes with an aromatic palate & touch of sweetness. An invigorating & warming experience.

Strawberry Kisses - Chocolate Bits, Vanilla, Strawberry, Rooibos

Do you, by chance, like Chocolate Dipped Strawberries?

New varieties at SerendipiTea Australia!

2009-01-21T16:03:00.006+11:00

It is always cause for celebration when we bring new varieties online.
So let's raise our glasses (of Tea) and drink to the new arrivals!

Fu Man Chu - Jasmine, Pouchong & Organic Pu-erh

Beauty & the beast ~ the luxurious earthiness of Pu-erh serenely cloaks the beautiful jasmine scented pouchong ~ a setting for a palate of contrast & conflict.

Jasmine Yin Hao - Jasmine, Pouchong

A traditional scented pouchong. This melodic coupling of fragrant petals & light, sweet tea produce a palate for romance.

Darjeeling 1st Floor -

Grown high in the foothills of the Himalayas on the famous Bio-dynamic Makaibari estate, this First Flush Darjeeling has pronounced greenness & strong character - yet is delicate & true. Superb!

Black Velvet - Ginseng, Peppermint, Licorice Root, Chinese Black

Ginseng, peppermint & licorice teamed with a China black tea deliver a smooth velvet taste
that relaxes & encourages recuperation.

Black & Blue - Blueberry & Organic China Black

Feeling no pain ~ this burst of blueberry paired with a powerful black punch will sock it to ya every time …in a good way.

Buccaneer - Coconut, Chocolate Bits, Vanilla, Rooibos, Nilgiri

Exciting on many frontiers. A profusion of flavors that compliment each other enthusiastically.
*Contains trace amounts of Dairy & Sugar
*Gluten-Free; No Trans Fat

Colonille - Vanilla, Vietnamese Black

Sumptuous, graceful & inviting. A tea that kindles elegant evenings, sweet thoughts & long walks. Beautiful bouquet with a distinct chocolatey taste coupling the vanilla, finished with a full red color, rich palate & distinct memory.

Holiday Cheer - Peppermint, Mint, Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Spearmint, Orange Peel, Chinese Black

Spread some Holiday Cheer this season!
A blend of warming spices, festive orange peel, invigorating mint & a touch of Black Tea for fortitude.

Lili' uokalani - Apple, Mango, Tropical Fruit, Peach, Papaya, Orange Peel, Chinese Black

Stunningly energetic tea, combines the lush tropical richness & colors of such flavors as
peach, mango, apple, orange & guava. Stunning to see, touch, smell & taste. A superb iced tea.

Mango Magnus - Mango, Nilgiri

Fine Black leaf combined with sweet aromatic mango ~ a deliciously refreshing afternoon tea or summer iced tea.

Rumba Riot - Raspberry, Fruit Blend, Keemun

Steamy, hot, alluring, earthy & just sweet enough to keep it safe.
Share this one with The One.

Slim Mint - Chocolate Bits, Vanilla, Mint, Rooibos, Yunnan

Never has decadence tasted so good without threatening the waistline! Depth, aroma, & taste combined in a delicious medley of health & sensation. A fine way to end a meal or simply
spoil yourself.

Frankly Stated - Bergamot, Ceylon Black, Chinese Black

Smoky, resonant, powerful & cerebral with the clean, defining taste of bergamot.

Mademoiselle Grey - Bergamot, Rose (Buds & Petals), Ceylon Black

Classic Earl Grey blended with rose petals ~ gently alluring.

Mandela Masala - Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Cinnamon, Rooibos

Warm, spicy & caffeine-free, this blend makes a fabulous Chai ~ prepare as you would traditional Chai....you might not taste any difference!

Xocatlatl Chai - Chocolate Bits, Vanilla, Mint, Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Pepper, Cinnamon, Rooibos, Assam, Indian Black

Tea, Chai & Chocolate! This luxurious, warm & fragrant combination sips elegantly with or without milk. Don't worry about pronunciation,
we call it X Chai!

Blossom - Oolong Tea, Hibiscus

Sweet nutty & tart with a distinct color, bright with crimson.

Buddha's Finger - Oolong Tea

A darker oxidation with rich, deep notes & fruit
pit characteristics.

Yerba Mate'! The new thing?

2008-12-10T16:14:00.015+11:00

OK ... We know there are many types of Teas, Herbals & Tisanes.
Under the heading "Tisane" is where Yerba Mate'.... (pronounced "yerba mahtay") can be found.

What is Yerba Mate' you may ask?

Yerba Mate' is a variety of holly that grows in sub tropical South America and contains Matteine, a more potent stimulant than caffeine.
In Buenos Aries people carry Mate' with them throughout the day!

Mate' was used by the ancient culture of the Guarani people, it was used to boost immunity, cleanse and detoxify the blood, tone the nervous system, restore youthful hair color, retard aging, combat fatigue, stimulate the mind, control the appetite, reduce the effects of debilitating disease, reduce stress, and eliminate insomnia.

The drinking of Mate' is historically a social event with friends sharing hollow gourd known in Spanish as a Bombilla and sipping through a hollow straw.

The effects of this Mate' can be felt from the first pot ... or Bombilla.
Smooth, uplifting & stimulating definitely worth giving it a try!

SerendipiTea blends four versions

Yerba Mate - Intense grassy & highly stimulating! ( Yerba Mate )
G'day Mate - A high octane infusion. Wake yourself up & kick-start the day. Wrestle the crocodiles in your office & conquer the outback of boredom. ( Mint, Yerba Mate )
Lemon Twist - spicy citrus blend sharpened by grassy undertones of Yerba Mate delivers pronounced flavor & natural stimulation. ( Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Yerba Mate, Lemon Myrtle )
Gaucho - A simple embellishment on the staple of the Argentine cowboy. ( Cloves, Cardamom, Ginger, Yerba Mate)

*Available from SerendipiTea Australia Wholesale & Retail

Joe Bagley
National Sales MGR
Express Life / SerendipiTea
143 Greville Street
Prahran, Vic
Ph: 9510 4334
Fax: 86100113
Mob: 0458442224

Tea & health

2008-12-02T13:00:00.005+11:00

More and more the health benefits of tea drinking are becoming part of mainstream thinking.

“It is believed that the Chinese Emperor Shen Nung (2737 BC) was the first to discover tea. Nung, whilst sipping boiling hot water in his garden, caught a leaf from a nearby tea plant in his cup. The taste of the water was altered and
he greatly enjoyed the result”.

Now if you think about it that's one heck of a long time for the merits of tea to move around the planet!
Finally, most of the world now knows what Nung discovered so long ago, and we also know much more about tea that complements what we can feel immediately.

Green tea , chamomile, white tea, black tea & oolong have all been studied for their curative properties but if you are a tea drinker your senses have already told you what the medico's are hinting...
Tea is good!