March 23, 2005

Brewed Awakenings

Tea Forte Silken Infusers

In 1773, a mob of unruly Bostonians dressed as Native Americans set out for a not-so-dainty tea party. Now, more than 200 years later, we tend to take our tea with a dash more couth.

Such newfound refinement might be thanks to Tea Forté, the Concord-based purveyor of gourmet teas. The range of fragrant and unusually bright flavors — from the heady black currant and refreshing citrus mint to the exotic chamomile tisane — come packaged in exquisite, handcrafted, pyramid-shaped pouches (each topped with a delicate green leaf handle) that you’ll be forgiven for mistaking for potpourri.

The sacs are intense enough to be used several times. Between uses, store them on Tea Forté’s custom-sized holders — bright green ceramic squares that showcase the tea like a miniature stage. Sounds like the makings of a spring tea party to us.

Just, please, leave the Indian headdress behind.

Tea Forte (800-721-1149 or teaforte.com).