There is possibly nothing more universal than sitting down for a nice cup of tea. Whether it’s part of your morning ritual, a midday pick-me-up or something you serve to guests with finger sandwiches, tea fits pleasantly into anyone’s day. Besides all of the proven health benefits, a gift of tea is a gift of relaxation—and who wouldn’t like to receive that for the holidays?
Here are some recommended teas and accessories from trusted brands.
Numi Organic World of Tea Collection
Packaged in a lovely handcrafted bamboo box, this collection of 45 organic teas take you on a journey of tastes and cultures around the world. Included in the set are teas from England, Italy, India, Brazil, China, Taiwan, South Africa, Morocco and Egypt, including black, green, rooibos and herbal varieties. Numi’s teas are 100 percent certified organic. With all of the news of teabags leaching plastic into our bodies, you can rest assured that Numi’s teabags are made of fully compostable plant fiber. The company also adheres to eco-responsible and fair trade practices.
$32.99 at numitea.com
Blue Lotus Chai Masala Chai Collection
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm cup of chai tea in the winter. With its powdered blends, Blue Lotus Chai makes it incredibly easy to brew up a cup. The Traditional Masala Chai has a deep, authentic flavor made from naturally brewed and flash-dried black tea powder and organic spices including ginger, cardamom, nutmeg, black pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Mmm.
The Rooibos Masala Chai has a delightful sweet and nutty flavor, while Star Anise Masala Chai offers deep, subtle licorice notes. The Oregon-based family-run company also offers a lush Mandarin Masala Chai, a sensational Mint Masala Chai and a complex Golden Masala Chai which features healthful turmeric and maca. The collection is the best way to sample all six flavors and choose your favorite.
$35.99 at bluelotuschai.com; individual 3 oz. tins (makes 100 cups) available on amazon.com for $16.50
Russell Hobbs Retro Electric Kettle
Modern sophistication meets classy, retro style in this 1.7-liter electric kettle by British household appliances manufacturer Russell Hobbs. If there’s anyone we can learn a thing or two about tea from, it’s the Brits—and the Brits use electric kettles.
This kettle not only elevates the style of your kitchen with its timeless beauty, but enhances the tea-making experience with its simplicity of use and functional features. The drip-free spout and cool-touch handle make it as practical as it is elegant, plus level markings, temperature gauge, the removable filter, automatic shut-off and two-year warranty make this charming kettle the best thing that ever happened to your kitchen.
$79.99 at russellhobbs.com
Crate & Barrel Tea Time Dish Towel
It’s always tea time with this tea-inspired dish towel decorated with colorful kettles, teabags and script lettering. The pure cotton towel exclusive to Crate & Barrel is machine washable. For a unique spin on gift-giving, wrap a tin of fine tea or a pretty mug in the towel with nice satin ribbon.
$6.95 at crateandbarrel.com
OXO Brew Tea Infuser Basket
Brewing tea in a large infuser basket optimizes the flavor of your favorite loose-leaf teas. Stainless steel construction and fine holes keep tea leaves and particles contained, and the non-slip silicone lid stays cool to the touch.
$12.99 at amazon.com
Buckabee Honey Stix
The best honey is local honey and Buckabee Honey from Huntington Station is as local as it gets. Each honey stick is filled with 5 grams of delicious raw honey and contains only
15 calories. Just snip the end and stir into a hot cup of tea.
$3 for a pack of 12 at buckabeehoney.com
Anthropologie Mason Tea For Two Set
This adorable stackable set includes one teapot and two teacups to share a cup with a loved one. Add a pop of color to your kitchen and make some memories while you’re at it.
$38 at anthropologie.com
