Herbal & fruit infusions

What it is

Infusions can use flowers, herbs, and fruit instead of Camellia sinensis leaves. Some blends also contain tea or other caffeine-bearing ingredients, so check the label.

Names to look for

Hibiscus, rooibos, and peppermint are starting points to explore. They are different plants, not varieties of the tea plant.

A fruit pairing to explore

Try our strawberry-and-hibiscus idea, then compare a little of the plain infusion with the mixed glass. Adjust the fruit before deciding whether to add sweetness.

For your next glass

Unless the product is specifically labeled for cold brewing, prepare herbal and fruit infusions with freshly boiled water before cooling, following its directions.

Pairing suggestions are editorial ideas, not the results of a comparative tasting. Use the brewing directions for your particular tea.