An ultraviolet box, sparkling with open hearts in golden reflections: Tokyo in Love is recognisable from afar. It contains 30 round traditional cotton muslin tea sachets, net weight 75 g, of a flowering oolong that Mariage Frères dedicates to the gardens of Tokyo, deliciously peaceful, and to the In Love collection, whose rose petals are the symbol.

Oolong, or blue tea, is a semi-oxidised leaf, between green and black, with a velvety roundness and a naturally floral fragrance. Here it welcomes the flowers of plum and cherry trees, precious icons of Japan, and rose petals which bring, according to the house, an enchanting sweetness. The composition combines oolong tea, flavouring, rose petals and blue flowers; the blend may contain traces of nuts.

In the cup appears a fascinating golden colour. The fragrance of plum and cherry blossom is delicate, barely sweet, a little almondy; the rose slips in behind, tender; and the oolong rounds everything off with a silky texture, without bitterness. The finish is floral and long. It is Japanese spring in a cup, that of hanami beneath the cherry trees.

An afternoon tea, low in caffeine, to be drunk plain. It accompanies a mochi, almond biscuits, a red fruit tart, or a green tea cake. It makes a gift for Valentine’s Day, for spring, or for someone who loves Tokyo. Served iced, it keeps its floral sweetness and gains in freshness.

Allow 1 muslin sachet per 200 ml of water at 95 °C and three minutes of steeping. Keep the box closed, away from light and strong odours, so the flowers remain clear to the last sachet. For a teapot, allow one muslin sachet per cup.