The fragrance escapes from the leaves as soon as they are opened, sensual and sweet: fruit and flowers from distant lands, in the words of Mariage Frères, which presents Marco Polo Rouge Sublime as the most extraordinary of its red rooibos teas and keeps its composition a closely guarded secret.

Rooibos is a shrub from South Africa whose oxidised needles give a russet infusion, low in tannins and naturally caffeine-free. The declared ingredients are red rooibos and flavouring; the blend may contain traces of nuts. It carries the house’s Jardin Premier label.

A velvety sweetness envelops the palate. Red berries and vanilla notes give the cup a pastry-like character, and the flavours blend in a balance that the house describes as perfect. The liquor, round and a deep russet, rests on the woody roundness of the rooibos, and the finish remains long and fruity. Those who know Marco Polo Rouge will find an even more delicate version.

Naturally caffeine-free, it suits the whole family at any time of day, and especially after dinner, when you still want the fragrance of Marco Polo. It is drunk plain or with a cloud of milk, with shortbread, a brioche, a red fruit tart or a dessert cream. Infused then chilled, it makes an iced drink that young and old share.

It is sold loose, weighed and packed to order in our shops in Bordeaux and Nice, from 5 g samples up to a kilo, in a bag designed to preserve its fragrance, or in a black metal tea tin of 100 g, airtight and sealed, presented in its gift box. Use 2.5 g per 200 ml of water at 95 °C and let it steep for five minutes. Reseal well after each use, away from light and strong odours.