At a glance: our organic wild berry rooibos brews best at 100°C, for 7 to 10 minutes, using 15 to 20 g per litre. A fruity, caffeine-free infusion with raspberry, blackcurrant and elderberry, delicious hot or iced.
Some infusions earn a permanent place in your kitchen, gentle enough for evenings yet bright enough for mornings. Our wild berry rooibos belongs to that rare family of generous drinks, ones that awaken the palate without ever overwhelming it.
In the cup, the red tea forms a sweet, woody backdrop for a harvest of berries: raspberry, strawberry, redcurrant, blackcurrant and elderberry. Together, they create a naturally rounded, fruity character with no caffeine, as appealing to children as to the most discerning tea lovers. Explore our selection of red berry rooibos to continue the tasting journey.
The aromatic profile of wild berry rooibos
The first impression is immediate: a scent of freshly picked berries rises the moment hot water meets the leaves. Raspberry sets the tone, fresh and lightly tart, closely followed by ripe strawberry and the roundness of grape.
At the heart of the cup, blackcurrant and redcurrant bring a bright, almost crystalline edge that balances the honeyed sweetness of the rooibos. This interplay between sweet fruit and tangy berry is what gives the blend its distinctive character.
Elderberry, quieter and more discreet, makes its presence felt in the finish. It lingers with a slightly woody, almost floral note that calls to mind a walk through the forest at the end of summer.
This deep red infusion is best enjoyed pure, without sugar, so the natural flavour of the berries can speak for itself. Children love it warm; adults often reach for it iced in summer, over a few cubes with a slice of lemon.
How to brew wild berry rooibos
The brewing method is simple, but a few small details make all the difference. Use 15 to 20 grams of leaves per litre of water, roughly one heaped tablespoon for a large mug.
Bring the water to a full boil at 100°C, then pour it directly over the leaves. Unlike green or white teas, rooibos handles boiling water perfectly, releasing its full aromatic range without any bitterness.
Steep for 7 to 10 minutes depending on the intensity you prefer. The longer the infusion, the rounder and fruitier the cup becomes, yet rooibos never turns bitter since it contains no harsh tannins.
For a summer iced version, double the amount of leaves and steep for 10 minutes hot before cooling. Serve over ice with a few fresh raspberries for an instantly refreshing result. Rooibos can be enjoyed throughout the day, any time you like.
When to drink it and what to pair it with
With no caffeine whatsoever, this is an ideal drink from morning to bedtime. At breakfast, it pairs effortlessly with buttered toast and red fruit jam.
In the mid-afternoon, served warm, it complements a shortbread biscuit, a financier or a slice of fruit loaf beautifully. In the evening, it makes a natural alternative to black tea for anyone looking to avoid caffeine without giving up the pleasure of a warm cup.
As a latte with a splash of warm almond milk and a touch of honey, this infusion becomes a comforting, indulgent treat. For a more adventurous cup, add a sliver of fresh ginger or a few mint leaves.
Storage
To keep the berries fresh and the rooibos smooth, store the leaves in their original tin or an airtight container, away from light, heat and moisture. Careful storage preserves the aromatic vibrancy for 18 to 24 months after opening.
Benefits of wild berry rooibos
Rooibos is traditionally valued for its rich polyphenol content. According to research referenced by the ANSES, polyphenols contribute to the body's antioxidant balance.
Free from both caffeine and theine, this infusion can be enjoyed at any hour, including in the evening, without affecting sleep. A body of literature available on PubMed documents the naturally caffeine-free profile of Aspalathus linearis, the plant from which rooibos is made.
Julien Huot, founder of Thés & Traditions, personally selects each harvest to ensure consistent organic quality. To go further, visit our guide Everything You Need to Know About Rooibos.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of rooibos?
Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free and rich in polyphenols. It contributes to your daily antioxidant intake and can be enjoyed at any time of day, with no impact on sleep.
How do I brew wild berry rooibos?
Pour boiling water at 100°C over 15 to 20 grams of leaves per litre. Steep for 7 to 10 minutes. Serve hot, warm or iced depending on the season, and without sugar to let the natural aromas shine through.
Where can I buy wild berry rooibos?
Our organic wild berry rooibos is available directly on the Thés & Traditions website and in our shop. Every batch is packed in our workshop upon receipt of each harvest.
What does rooibos taste like?
Plain rooibos offers smooth, woody and lightly honeyed notes. Our wild berry version adds raspberry, strawberry, blackcurrant, redcurrant and elderberry for a bright, flavourful cup.
Where does rooibos come from?
Rooibos comes from Aspalathus linearis, a shrub grown in certain regions of southern Africa. To learn more, visit our dedicated guide on the origins of rooibos.
