Have you heard the term "tea cocktail" before? A new genre of cocktails, combining tea and alcohol, is currently gaining attention both in Japan and abroad. We will thoroughly explain its types, history, and how to enjoy it.
What is a Tea Cocktail?
A tea cocktail is a general term for cocktails that use tea components extracted from tea leaves as their base. While traditional Japanese drinks like "Ocha-wari" (tea with alcohol) and "Ryokucha-hai" (green tea highball) are broadly considered tea cocktails, in recent years, the method of bartenders directly infusing tea leaves into spirits has become globally widespread.
Types of Tea Cocktails
Japanese Tea-Based
Such as green tea (sencha, gyokuro), hojicha, and genmaicha. Representative examples include "Ryokucha-hai" (green tea highball) with green tea and shochu, and "Hojicha-hai" (hojicha highball) with hojicha and whiskey. The unique umami component (theanine) of Japanese tea mellows the alcoholic taste of the drink.
Black Tea-Based
Cocktails that utilize the elegant aroma of black tea, such as Earl Grey with gin, or Darjeeling with champagne. They are particularly popular with women, often enjoyed as an extension of afternoon tea.
Chinese Tea-Based
Such as Oolong tea with rum, or Pu-erh tea with brandy. The refreshing bitterness of oolong tea pairs excellently with rich meals, making it a superb drink to enjoy with food.
Why Are Tea Cocktails Gaining Attention Now?
The rising health consciousness is a major reason. Catechins in tea have antioxidant properties, and theanine has relaxing effects. The appeal of tea cocktails lies in being able to enjoy alcohol while also consuming these beneficial components. Furthermore, there is data suggesting that when tea is brewed with alcohol, the amount of catechins extracted is about 1.4 times greater than with hot water.
Enjoying Tea Cocktails at Home
You can enjoy authentic tea cocktails at home without going to a bar. The simplest method is to simply steep your preferred tea leaves in alcohol for about an hour.
If you want to enjoy it even more easily, we recommend ZEN TEA BREW's craft tea cocktail kits. Carefully selected tea leaves from Shizuoka Prefecture, along with dried fruits and spices, are blended into tea bags. Simply immerse them in alcohol, and you'll have a professional-grade tea cocktail. You can choose from four types: green tea, black tea, hojicha, and oolong tea.