What Makes Desert Chai Different
Desert Chai is not your standard chai. It starts with a full-bodied Assam black tea base, then adds pieces of cinnamon, cardamom, and liquorice root. Sweet vanilla and almond give it a twist that sets it apart from spiced tea blends you may have tried before. Because of its loose-leaf format and chunky spice pieces, brewing it well makes a real difference in the cup.
Brewing for Best Flavor
Use freshly boiled water and let it cool slightly before pouring over the tea. A standard teapot or infuser works well. Steep for a few minutes until the liquor takes on a deep amber color. The exact time depends on how strong you like your tea—shorter for a lighter, more delicate spice note, longer for a bolder, richer cup.
Because the blend contains whole spice pieces, give the tea room to expand. A spacious infuser or a teapot with a wide basket lets the water circulate around the cinnamon and cardamom, releasing their full character.
What the Flavor Delivers
Desert Chai is described as a comforting and indulgent blend. The Assam black tea provides a rich, full-bodied base. Warming spices come through clearly, while vanilla and almond add natural sweetness and nutty notes. The liquorice root contributes a subtle, earthy sweetness that lingers. It's a complex cup that works well on its own or with a splash of milk.
Product Facts at a Glance
- Desert Chai by Matthew Williamson - 75g: Desert Chai is a comforting and indulgent blend made with Assam black tea and pieces of cinnamon, cardamom, and liquorice root. The addition of sweet vanilla and almond gives it a unique twist on this classic tea. The whole spice pieces and vanilla flavoring are central to the brewing advice: they need enough room to infuse and benefit from a slightly longer steep than fine-leaf teas.
Desert Chai by Matthew Williamson - 75g - Desert Chai by Matthew Williamson - 75g: Created by Newby Master Tea Tasters in collaboration with Matthew Williamson, Desert Chai is expertly blended with Assam black tea, premium spices, and natural vanilla flavour. It is packed in our carbon-neutral centre to preserve freshness. Knowing it's a master-blended product reassures you that the spice balance is intentional—no need to adjust ratios yourself.
Serving Ideas and Trade-Offs
Desert Chai is sweet enough to enjoy without sugar, but you can add honey if you prefer a sweeter cup. A splash of warm milk or a dairy alternative turns it into a creamy chai latte. The loose-leaf format means you control the strength, but it also requires a strainer or infuser—something to keep in mind if you're used to tea bags.
The caddy's design, featuring a leopard motif by Matthew Williamson, makes it a gift-worthy addition to your tea shelf. Just remember that the blend is fairly sweet on its own, so it may not suit those who prefer a dry, tannic black tea.
