It’s the beginning of Spring and that means hope, possibility, and optimism.  A lot of us, including myself, can only take so much winter before our we start losing that hope.  I’m thankful we’ve gotten to this point.

The first day of Spring coincides with Iranian or Persian New Year.  And as much as I don’t bring up my culture, I do like to embrace it. I was born in the states and have spent all of my life here.  So I’m fully ingrained in the USA but that doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate where I come from.  Plus it’s another reason to get together with family and dear friends.

Fortunately, I got to do just that this past Sunday with my dad.  In previous years I’ve been to various gatherings and events that all culminated with the celebration of New Year, which in Farsi is pronounced Nowruz.

And I’m grateful I get to write about a tea that is only befitting of such a celebration.

The Earl Grey from Shah Abbasi Tea is a masterpiece.  I’ve been sharing cups with my father for quite a number of years now, and it never disappoints.

We’ve had a compilation of teas from Iran and other parts of the Middle East, but this one really clicks.  I have a spiritual and metaphysical connection with this tea.

The Bergamot letels are so powerful that some might be turned off by it.  I love it, and to me it’s just right.    I do believe the company and loving family only seems to heighten the greatness of it.   And that’s makes this experience all the more spiritual.

How about that color?  That’s a tea you can be proud to purchase and proud to drink.  It’s mesmerizing.   They put their heart and soul into crafting this.  I’m yearning for a cup right now.  As a matter of fact, I’m brewing a cup as we speak.

A funny thing of note, my dad did all the infusing so not pictures were taken during that part.  But maybe none were meant to be for this go around.

We were enjoying life and enjoyed some delicious pastries to go with our cups. We do this more than once a year.  It’s more say, once or twice a month, and we can never do it enough.

The company of the people you love should never be taken for granted.  And being with great company should be done as much as humanly possible.  A holiday, a celebration, or a special event are one of the many reasons to get together.  But no reason at all should also be at the top of the list.  However, New Year and the dawn of Spring are special and heartwarming times.

I cannot recommend this tea enough.  It’s artistry at immeasurable levels.  If you can find a package at a local Middle Eastern or International Market, jump on it. There is a lighter version as well, for those who don’t want to all the magic to hit you at once.

Locally, we purchase ours at Gourmet Bazaar in Rockville, MD.

Here is there contact info if you’d like to pursue further.

So for the time being, we enjoyed the view of the various Haft-Seen displays, enjoyed ourselves, and the people we love the most.

I wish you all a Happy New Year, Happy Spring, and the happiest of times ahead.

Ideen