In the early 20th century, English speaking Westerners called the Xujiahui neighborhood of Shanghai “Siccawei.” Originally established as a Catholic sanctuary for must of East Asia, its fate was overturned by history. With it came the rise and fall of the Jesuits’, followed by fire and persecution in the mid-century.

A quiet hymn to martyred saints. We chose congou, or more accurately gongfu, black tea as the base. A tea that demands skill and patience to shape its long, wiry strands without breaking the leaves during oxidation. Flavored with lychee, then blended with rose and lemongrass to temper any hints of “soapiness” that sometimes lurk in floral/fruity black tea blends.

Serving Suggestion: start with 3-4 grams or 1 teaspoon in 8 ounces of water at 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit then steep for 3-4 minutes.