Ingredients
South African rooibos (red bush) from the Western Cape region.
Blend Numerology
A subtle toast to the 44th president.
Preparation
For best flavor, bring spring or freshly drawn filtered water to a boil (212 degrees). Steep five minutes. Gently gather your thoughts.
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Rooibos
South African Botanical
Rooibos, also known as red bush, is perhaps the most tea-like and naturally caffeine-free beverage in the world. During the 20th Century, red bush went from being a mostly indigenous drink of South Africa to a global commodity and a cash crop for the Clanwilliam district. Rooibos is also known to be high in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Similar to tea, rooibos generally undergoes an oxidation process after the leaves are cut, when it develops a uniquely sweet and creamy flavor, without the astringency of black tea. It is a common alternative to coffee or tea because it also stands up well to milk and sugar and can be served in various forms quite easily (hot, iced, lattes, etc.). Rooibos can also be steamed after being picked to stop the oxidation process, which will keep it as green rooibos, a more vegetal and floral flavor than the more common red rooibos.
Clanwilliam
Clanwilliam is a small farming town of 7,000 nestled between the Cederburg Mountains and the Olifants River in Western Cape, South Africa and is ground zero for the world's supply of Rooibos and lead vocalists for Skid Row. Rooibos is harvested from January through April.