There are devotees who would never dream of corrupting the pure flavors offered by any high quality beverage, be they found in tea or wine or spirits, or really any drink of merit. The thought is often something along the lines of, “Drink the good stuff straight and save the cheaper fare for messing around.” But any good turn of phrase deserves a thought provoking counterpoint, and the adage, “If you wouldn’t drink it, definitely don’t cook with it,” delivers us pause for reconsideration. While a purist at heart, it is nevertheless clear to me that options for new ways to enjoy old favorites benefit everyone.

Although not new by any measure, tea is undergoing a resurgence and experiencing rapid growth in the US. Boba tea is a phenomenon unto itself. Almost every mall has at least one store front. Thankfully high quality tea is also gaining a following, in many ways mirroring the cafe scene explosion that happened decades earlier. In fact, we can learn a lot from cafes…from the discerning eye firmly affixed upon quality, to the development of technique able to encapsulate both artistry and reproducibility, all the way through the creation of their own resonating culture.

It’s fall and I wanted to create a spiced seasonal drink that would serve a slightly different riff on an old favorite, while still highlighting the main tea ingredient rather than overwhelming it. We are primarily after balance, and the goal of having all elements work together to compliment one another. Jin Jun Mei is a great choice for this. The famed tea of Tongmu in Wuyishan, China already delivers a hearty cup. Boasting flavors of malt, milk chocolate, and rye bread, it is exactly what you want to warm the whole of your constitution as the seasons change and the weather becomes a little more brisk. Jin Jun Mei is harvested from tiny, golden spring buds, a very labor intensive process for the experts involved in hand picking. The downey buds contain more sugar and carbohydrate, which lend themselves to notes of malt, as well as to a generous and satisfying palate presence.

Jin Jun Mei also has a hint of nutmeg on its own, so the inherent flavor profile is perfectly suited for the complimentary addition of traditional fall spices.

Add the following ingredients to a serving glass:

1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon of allspice

A few drops of vanilla extract

(option: to include a small amount of fresh minced ginger, not too much)

In preparation, we must first warm the tea pot using boiling water. Filling to 70% full is ideal. After 20 seconds discard the water. This is important because we must retain the high temperature of the brewing liquid so we don’t experience a temperature drop that will negatively impact our extraction during brewing.

Add 7.1 g (1/4 oz) of Jin Jun Mei black tea to the pot. We are using a higher rate of tea because we are brewing with milk; crucial, in order for the flavors to come through as desired.

Add 3 oz of boiling water. Let steep for 45 seconds. Next, add 9 oz of whole milk on top of the water that has been pre-heated and pulled, just as it is beginning to show signs of nearing a boil. Whole milk can be heated first on the stove or in a microwave. Just be sure to keep a close eye on it. Once the heated milk is added you will steep for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.

Again, the steep time is likewise increased so that the flavors fully saturate within the milk used for brewing. Milk has many components that absorb flavor, effectively muting their expression. Additionally, the protein content of milk is one such attribute that will also alter the textural elements imparted by tea. All this really means is you have to use more tea and to steep the tea longer in order to achieve the desire effect you are after. In this case, a flavorful tea latte!

Once steeped you are ready to pour the brewed tea latte into your 12 oz glass or mug. After pouring, stir the spice ingredients thoroughly. You may top with whipped cream. We suggest it! And garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg and orange zest for an enticing accent of color in keeping with the seasonal theme. The essential oils in orange zest help to lift the tea and spice aromas, as well as to overlay another element of flavor. You can get as creative as you like. Add a cinnamon stick for fun. There are quite a few opportunities for your own personal touch. …Why not candy some ginger if you have the time?

There you have it! The Leaf Turn Latte featuring Jin Jun Mei. Not only is this drink satisfying, it is surprisingly refreshing. It out classes the ubiquitous, humdrum pumpkin spiced latte any day of the week. There is more complexity with brighter, more well-defined flavors bursting forth. It doesn’t beat you over the head. It invites you in! And there is something reassuring, almost eternal about the tiny spring buds of Jin Jun Mei still shining bright as ever in a delectable fall concoction that bolsters us as the days continue growing shorter.