Dammann Frères Enveloped Tea Bags - Verbena

Tasting Notes of the Curator

Dammann Frères Verbena is an elegant herbal infusion with a distinctly fresh and lemony personality. As the leaves steep, they release a clear golden liquor and a delicate fragrance reminiscent of lemon zest, crushed green leaves, and sun-warmed herbs. The aroma is bright but not sharp, carrying the polished freshness that makes verbena especially pleasant after a meal or during a quiet evening.

The first sip is light and gently citrusy, with a natural sweetness that keeps the infusion from feeling austere. Its lemon-like character is softer than that of actual citrus fruit, leaning more toward fragrant peel and aromatic foliage than acidity. Subtle green and herbaceous notes sit beneath the brightness, giving the cup enough depth to remain interesting from beginning to finish.

There is no tannic grip or bitterness, only a smooth, clean texture and a refreshing finish that lingers softly on the palate. Served hot, the infusion feels warm and composed, with its herbal sweetness becoming more apparent. Chilled, its citrus character becomes especially crisp and refreshing.

Naturally caffeine-free, Verbena can be enjoyed throughout the day and into the evening. Each Cristal® sachet is individually enveloped to help protect the leaves’ delicate aroma while making every serving easy to prepare at home, in the office, or while travelling.

Brewing and Pairing Suggestions

Steep one sachet in freshly boiled water at approximately 100°C for 6 minutes. A slightly longer infusion will deepen the herbal and citrus notes without producing the strong bitterness associated with over-steeped traditional tea. Remove the sachet before serving.

Verbena is best enjoyed plain, although a small amount of honey can soften and round its natural citrus character.

Lemon pastries: Serve with lemon madeleines, citrus loaf cake, lemon tart, or butter biscuits scented with zest.

Light fruit desserts: Pair with poached pears, peach tart, apple compote, or a fresh fruit salad.

Honey and almond: Enjoy with financiers, almond cake, baklava, or honeyed nuts.

Vanilla and cream: Its brightness complements panna cotta, vanilla custard, cheesecake, and creamy rice pudding.

Fresh cheeses: Pair with ricotta, mild goat cheese, or mascarpone served with fruit and honey.

After a rich meal: Its clean herbal finish makes it a graceful conclusion to buttery, creamy, or heavily seasoned dishes.

For an iced version, brew slightly stronger than usual, allow it to cool completely, and serve over ice with a slice of lemon, peach, or a few fresh mint leaves.

A Leaf with the Scent of Lemon

The herb most commonly enjoyed as verbena tea is fragrant or lemon verbena, known for the vivid citrus perfume released when its slender leaves are crushed. Despite its aroma, the plant is not a citrus tree. Its freshness comes naturally from the aromatic compounds within its leaves, giving the infusion the impression of lemon without its pronounced acidity.

Originally associated with South America, fragrant verbena later became a familiar presence in European herb gardens and French tisane traditions. Its appeal is easy to understand: the plant offers a cup that is both bright and gentle, aromatic enough to awaken the senses yet soft enough for an evening ritual.

In France, a simple verveine after dinner carries an almost domestic elegance. It belongs to the realm of quiet hospitality—a warm cup offered after a long meal, a final pause before the table is cleared, or a calming infusion enjoyed when the day begins to loosen its grip.

Dammann Frères gives this understated tradition a practical form through individually enveloped Cristal® sachets. Each portion waits neatly protected until hot water releases the leaf’s delicate citrus fragrance once more.

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, heat, humidity, and strongly scented foods or spices. Handle the sachets only with clean, dry hands.