Blackcurrant Bergamot Last Round

Blackcurrant adds a dark, tart fruit flavor to Earl Grey, and lemon gives the finish a cleaner edge. Bergamot's citrus aroma makes the combination feel more distinctive than a plain berry iced tea. Choose juice rather than undiluted cordial unless you want a much sweeter result. Keep the tea brew moderate so it doesn't become harsh. This is a fuller-flavored cooler for a small dinner or afternoon glass, with a slightly tannic finish and some caffeine.

Ingredients

• 1 tea bag Earl Grey black tea
• 6 oz Water
• 1 oz Blackcurrant juice
• 1/4 oz Lemon juice

Make it

1. Brew the tea in the measured water, using the temperature and steeping time on its packet. Remove the tea bag.
2. Cool the tea in a heatproof container, then chill for about 30 minutes.
3. Mash any soft fruit in a separate glass. Lightly bruise herbs or ginger; add these and the listed juices or spices to the cooled tea.
4. Stir well and taste. Remove ginger or herb sprigs when their flavor suits you. Strain if you prefer a smoother drink, then serve chilled.

Benefits

Lemon · a little vitamin C

You get a small vitamin C contribution from lemon in the Earl Grey tea and blackcurrant mixture, supporting normal immune function alongside a clean citrus sharpness.

A different side of blackcurrant

There is a deep, tart berry flavor from the measured blackcurrant in the Earl Grey tea and lemon mixture, giving that ingredient a place without drowning out the other flavors.

Contains caffeine.