At a glance: An organic Assam black tea with bright notes of grapefruit, mandarin and lemongrass. Steep 3 to 5 min at 100°C, 12 to 15 g per litre, ideal as a morning cup or iced in summer.
Mathaouri is a signature creation from our house, designed as a sensory awakening. On a base of organic Assam black tea, we have crafted a citrus-lemongrass pairing that stirs the senses from the very first sip.
This aromatic infusion embodies our vision of a fruity tea: refined, never artificially sweetened, where every ingredient holds its own. Explore our black teas to continue the journey.
The aromatic profile of Mathaouri
The first impression is bright and sun-drenched. The essential oils of mandarin and the natural grapefruit aroma release an immediate freshness, carried by the herbal fragrance of organic lemongrass.
In the heart of the cup, the Assam black tea unfolds its characteristic malty roundness. This generous base balances the lively citrus acidity and carries the flavours with a beautiful finish.
The finish reveals lemon peel and a touch of passionflower, adding a soft floral note. Together, they create a luminous, fragrant fruit character, never cloying, where the gentle bitterness of grapefruit plays against a hint of candied mandarin.
- Top notes: vibrant grapefruit, zesty mandarin
- Heart notes: malty Assam, fresh lemongrass
- Base notes: lemon peel, soft passionflower
This grapefruit tea appeals both to lovers of full-bodied black teas and to those looking for a bright, fruity infusion. If you are deciding between styles, our green tea vs. black tea guide will help you choose the right cup for the moment.
How to brew Mathaouri
Brewing follows the classic black tea method, with particular attention to temperature to preserve the vibrancy of the citrus notes.
- Dosage: 12 to 15 g per litre, roughly one tablespoon for a 500 ml teapot
- Temperature: 100°C, freshly boiled water
- Steeping time: 3 to 5 minutes, depending on desired strength
- Water: low in minerals, filtered if possible
For a balanced cup, start at 3 minutes: you will get a fruity, lively brew. At 5 minutes, the Assam expresses itself more fully and adds body. Beyond that, the tannins may overshadow the delicacy of the grapefruit.
Served cold in summer, this tea is wonderful. Brew hot following the method above, allow to cool, then serve over ice with a slice of lemon. The iced version fully reveals the aromatic character of the citrus.
You can also try a cold brew directly: 15 g per litre, 8 hours in the refrigerator. The result is smoother, less tannic, perfect for a refreshing experience. Try Mathaouri iced for your sunny afternoons.
Storing Mathaouri
Packaged in our workshop, this tea keeps best in an airtight tin, away from light, moisture and strong odours. The citrus essential oils remain vibrant for 18 to 24 months when the container is properly sealed.
Avoid clear containers and the refrigerator: ambient temperature and darkness are what best preserve the fragrance. Julien Huot, founder of Thés & Traditions, personally selects every batch and ensures packaging that protects the aromatic integrity of each tea.
Frequently asked questions
What does grapefruit tea taste like?
Grapefruit tea offers a bright, lively flavour, slightly bitter and zesty, balanced by the malty roundness of Assam black tea. Mandarin softens the whole, while lemongrass brings its characteristic herbal freshness.
How do you brew grapefruit tea?
Use 12 to 15 g per litre of freshly boiled water at 100°C, and steep for 3 to 5 minutes. For an iced version, allow the infusion to cool, then serve over ice with a slice of fresh lemon.
What are the benefits of grapefruit tea?
Black tea contains polyphenols studied by EFSA for their antioxidant properties. Citrus and passionflower complement this profile with notes traditionally valued for their freshness and calming qualities.
What recipes can I make with grapefruit tea?
Beyond a classic cup, this tea lends itself to homemade iced tea, alcohol-free cocktails with sparkling water and mint, or as a base for a fragrant jelly to accompany dessert. Its fruity flavour also pairs beautifully with lemon pastries.
Where can I buy organic grapefruit tea?
Our house offers this grapefruit tea in a 100% organic version, selected and packaged in our workshop. To explore other options, visit black tea: which varieties to choose and find the one that suits your palate.
Sources
Our information on black tea polyphenols draws on the scientific opinions of ANSES and research indexed on PubMed regarding the antioxidant compounds of Camellia sinensis. To go further, black tea and its properties.
