Dammann Enveloped Tea Bags - The Vert ala Menthe

Tasting Notes of the Curator

Dammann Frères Thé Vert à la Menthe opens with the unmistakable freshness of mint, but its character is more layered than a simple herbal infusion. The base is Gunpowder green tea, named for the tightly rolled appearance of its leaves. It lends the cup a firm vegetal structure, a lightly smoky undertone, and a pleasant touch of bitterness that keeps the mint from becoming overly sweet or confection-like.

Two kinds of mint shape the aromatic profile. Sweet mint brings a softer, rounded freshness, while peppermint adds a cooler and more penetrating mentholated lift. Together, they create a lively sensation that builds across the palate: green and slightly brisk at first, then increasingly cooling toward the finish. The result is powerful and refreshing, with enough body to remain satisfying even when served with sugar.

This is a tea that feels both invigorating and comforting. Its vegetal backbone gives it substance, while the mint leaves the palate clean and awakened. Dammann Frères recommends enjoying it very hot and sweet, in keeping with the Moroccan tradition that inspired the blend. Each tea bag is individually enveloped to help protect its aromatic freshness and make the tea easy to serve wherever a revitalising cup is needed.

Brewing and Pairing Suggestions

Steep one sachet in water heated to approximately 90°C for 3–4 minutes. Remove the sachet once the tea has reached your preferred strength. For a traditional-style serving, sweeten generously and serve very hot in a small glass or teacup.

Its bright mint character makes it particularly versatile:

• Middle Eastern pastries: Serve with baklava, ma’amoul, date-filled biscuits, or honeyed nuts.
• Chocolate desserts: Mint provides a fresh counterpoint to dark chocolate cake, brownies, or chocolate truffles.
• Fresh fruit: Pair with oranges, watermelon, melon, berries, or a citrus fruit salad.
• After a rich meal: Its brisk green tea base and cooling finish make it a refreshing conclusion to buttery or spiced dishes.
• Afternoon tea: Serve with almond biscuits, madeleines, financiers, or lightly sweetened shortbread.
• Iced tea: Brew slightly stronger, sweeten while warm, chill thoroughly, and serve over ice with fresh mint or a slice of lemon.

Hospitality Poured from the Pot

Mint tea carries a deep association with welcome and hospitality across Morocco and much of North Africa. Traditionally, green tea is infused with fresh mint and sugar, then poured from a raised teapot into small glasses. Beyond creating an elegant stream, the elevated pour helps aerate the tea and form a light layer of foam on the surface.

The drink is often served very hot and notably sweet. Its preparation is not merely functional; it creates a shared pause in the day. Tea may be offered to guests, enjoyed with family, or poured during conversation, transforming a simple combination of leaves, mint, water, and sugar into an expression of generosity.

Dammann Frères’ version captures the broad flavour language of this tradition by pairing rolled Gunpowder green tea with both sweet mint and peppermint. It does not require fresh mint leaves to create its vivid cooling character, making the ritual easier to enjoy at home, at work, or while travelling. The individually enveloped format preserves that sense of readiness: hospitality, neatly wrapped and waiting for hot water.

Storage Instructions

Keep each tea bag sealed inside its individual envelope until ready to brew. Store the box in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, humidity, heat, and strong-smelling foods or spices. Handle the sachets only with clean, dry hands.