At a glance: organic liquorice black tea (Assam, anise, liquorice root 3%, cornflower). Brew at 100°C for 3 to 5 minutes, 12 to 15 g per litre. Round, woody, naturally sweet cup.
Some cups comfort you before the very first sip. This liquorice tea is one of them. The full, rounded body of the Assam weaves together with the cool anise freshness and the velvety sweetness of the root, creating an infusion that drinks like a warm, woody embrace.
In our workshop, we looked for a precise balance: enough body to anchor a morning cup, enough natural sweetness to need nothing added. The blue cornflower petals provide the final visual touch, a quiet nod to the pleasure of the eyes. our organic black teas to continue this indulgent journey.
The aromatic profile of liquorice black tea
The nose opens on clear notes of anise and dry root, supported by the malty warmth of the Assam. On the palate, the copper-hued liquor unfolds in three distinct stages, like an aromatic story.
Top notes: anise speaks first, fresh and gently liquorice-like, followed by a vegetal breath that recalls old-fashioned sweets. A lively opening, never sharp.
Heart notes: Glycyrrhiza glabra, true liquorice root, releases its natural sweetness, round and velvety. No need to add sugar: this distinctive character is complete in itself.
Base notes: South Indian Assam, a full-bodied, malty black tea, anchors the cup in deep woodiness. An elegant, never astringent tannic length that lingers well after the last sip.
What goes into this liquorice tea
Our recipe is intentionally simple. Four ingredients, all organically grown, chosen for the way they speak to one another aromatically.
- Organic Assam black tea (South India): a malty, full-bodied base that brings warmth and body to the cup. Its finely rolled brown leaves release a deep, copper-hued liquor.
- Organic green anise: its small seeds deliver the characteristic anise freshness and a lightly spiced sweetness that echoes the liquorice.
- Organic liquorice root (3%): the heart of the recipe. Glycyrrhiza glabra, a Mediterranean plant, is dried and cut into pale golden chips. This is what gives the blend its round, naturally sweet taste, with no added sugar.
- Natural anise flavouring: extends and softens the anise notes on the palate.
- Organic cornflower petals: a delicate blue accent, decorative and refined, that brings the blend to life visually.
The whole blend is packed by hand in small batches in our workshop, to preserve the freshness of the aromas. The most renowned black teas share this same care: rigorous sourcing and a well-judged blend.
How to brew liquorice black tea
A great liquorice tea comes down to three variables: temperature, time and dosage. Our official brewing parameters, calibrated in our shop by Julien Huot, give a balanced result from the very first cup.
Water: bring a low-mineral water to 100°C. A full boil is ideal here, unlike green teas. It draws out the maltiness of the Assam and fully releases the liquorice root.
Dosage: use 12 to 15 grams per litre, roughly one heaped tablespoon for a large 300 ml cup. Adjust to taste.
Steeping time: steep for 3 to 5 minutes. At 3 minutes the cup is elegant and fluid; at 5 minutes it gains malty depth and sweetness. Beyond that, the tannins of the Assam may start to dominate.
Equipment: use a wide-mesh filter or a teapot with a removable infuser. The leaves need room to unfurl and release their aromas. Remove the filter as soon as steeping is complete to avoid any bitterness.
For an iced version, double the dosage, steep hot for 4 minutes, then pour over ice: the anise freshness becomes wonderfully refreshing. Try our homemade black tea winter cocktail for another indulgent seasonal idea.
Storage
To preserve the aromatic delicacy of this blend, store it in an airtight metal tin, away from light, moisture and strong odours. A dry shelf, away from heat sources, is all you need. Avoid the refrigerator: its humidity affects the drying of both the leaves and the root.
Stored properly, your tea will hold its full aromatic expression for 18 to 24 months. Remember to close the tin after each use: the anise aromas are volatile and are well worth this small act of care.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of liquorice?
Liquorice root, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, has been used since antiquity in many traditional herbalism traditions. Here, we are talking above all about flavour: its natural sweetness lets you enjoy a sweet cup with no added sugar.
How do you brew a liquorice infusion?
For our liquorice black tea, use 12 to 15 g per litre, water at 100°C, and steep for 3 to 5 minutes. For a pure root herbal infusion, extend to 8 to 10 minutes in simmering water to fully extract the dried root.
Where can I buy liquorice tea?
Our house T&T offers this organic liquorice tea for direct purchase, packed in our own workshop. Orders are placed through our website, with professional customer service and fully traceable sourcing from grower to cup.
Are there any side effects from liquorice?
Consumed in large amounts over a prolonged period, liquorice root may raise blood pressure in certain sensitive individuals. Our recipe contains only 3%, a moderate amount intended for everyday enjoyment. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.
How does liquorice support digestion?
Liquorice root is traditionally associated with a soothing effect on the digestive system, which explains its presence in many after-dinner herbal infusions. For a dedicated look, explore our green tea versus black tea comparison and black tea.
