As an avid tea enthusiast and a fan of Friday Tea's creative blends, I was eagerly anticipating the "Egg Hunt" tea from their Stardew Valley collection. The vibrant, colorful dry mix and the promise of a strawberry-lemon flavor profile piqued my interest, and I had high hopes for this blend.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately struck by the visual appeal of the tea. The large chunks of dried strawberry, coupled with the rainbow sprinkles, created a festive appearance that perfectly captured the spirit of an egg hunt. The inclusion of Dragonwell green tea and white tea leaves suggested a nuanced base that I was excited to experience.
The aroma of the dry leaves was promising, with hints of citrus and berry. However, upon steeping (following the recommended 175°F for 2-4 minutes), I found that the flavor profile didn't quite align with my expectations.
The lemon myrtle takes center stage in this blend, imparting a strong, zesty lemon flavor that dominates the cup. While this creates a bright, refreshing taste, it unfortunately overshadows some of the other elements I was looking forward to. The strawberry notes, despite the generous inclusion of dried fruit, were subtle to the point of being barely discernible. Similarly, the delicate flavors of the green and white teas were somewhat lost beneath the citrusy punch.
I was particularly intrigued by the inclusion of sweet violet flowers, anticipating a floral undertone that would add depth and complexity to the blend. However, this element was also overwhelmed by the lemon notes, leaving me wishing for more balance in the flavor profile.
It's important to note that taste preferences are subjective, and for those who enjoy a bold, lemon-forward tea, "Egg Hunt" could be a delightful choice. The bright, citrusy flavor certainly evokes the freshness of spring and the excitement of a festival, aligning well with the Stardew Valley theme.
While this blend didn't quite meet my personal expectations, I appreciate Friday Tea's creativity and attention to detail in crafting a tea that visually and conceptually captures the essence of an egg hunt. The quality of the ingredients is evident, and the approximately 35mg of caffeine per cup makes it a suitable choice for a gentle energy boost.
In conclusion, "Egg Hunt" is a unique and visually appealing blend that offers a zesty, refreshing cup. While it may not have struck the perfect balance for my palate, it demonstrates Friday Tea's commitment to creating innovative, themed blends. For those who enjoy a prominent lemon flavor in their tea, this could be a delightful addition to their collection. Despite not being my favorite, I remain impressed with Friday Tea's craftsmanship and look forward to exploring more of their offerings.
