A golden yellow, in shades that Mariage Frères describes as magnificent: this is the colour of Blue Valentine in the cup, a smooth and gentle oolong tea that combines floral scents with zesty citrus notes. Oolong tea, that is, a semi-oxidised blue tea, with a velvety base and no harsh tannins, suits delicate aromas.

The declared composition combines oolong tea, flavouring and blue flowers, with possible traces of nuts. The caffeine content is low. It is presented in an iconic 100 g tin, a black metal tin, airtight and with a re-sealable lid, delivered in its gift box.

The liquor is golden and silky. The flowers open, tender and slightly sweet, then the citrus brings a zesty freshness that lights up the whole and keeps the floral from becoming cloying; the oolong, smooth, leaves a long, round, slightly milky finish. The house speaks of a great love story that begins with the very first sip; in the cup, it is a soft and luminous scented tea, which pleases immediately and never tires.

It is drunk in the afternoon, plain, with macarons, a citrus cake, orange blossom biscuits or fresh fruit, and suits a tea for two as well as an afternoon snack. Infused then cooled, it makes a very pleasant floral and zesty iced tea.

Measure 3 g of leaves for 200 ml of water at 95 °C and let it infuse for five minutes. La Boutique du Thé, official stockist of Mariage Frères since 1999, offers you Blue Valentine in its shops in Bordeaux and Nice; once opened, keep the tin closed, dry and away from light and odours.