High altitude teas rank among the worlds finest because the cool temperatures and increased rainfall allow tea bushes to grow slower, creating distinctive teas.  One region of high altitude tea that recently became available in the United States is Bolivian teas.  The Yungas of La Pax, part of the watershed of the Bolivian Amazon, is a region of rich valleys and cloud shrouded peaks.  Bolivian teas are grown on the high slopes where the Amazon Basin meets the Andes.  This rare location, where cool air from the Andean snowcapped peaks combines with warm moist air from the Amazon, has produced unique teas with extraordinary flavor and a distinctive aroma for over seventy years.  The newly available teas are certified organically grown on family farms and hand-picked to insure high quality. Four different Bolivian teas are currently available: Black Tippy Small Leaf, Black Large Leaf, Green Jasmine, and Green Large Leaf. If that doesn't tell you much don't worry, below is the low down on what these teas are and how they taste. But before we go into the details keep in mind that all of these teas are very distinctive compared to other similar teas, so if you are looking for some variety in your tea these are a definite option.

Bolivian Black Tippy Small Leaf:  The tea has small jet-black leaves that produce a bright amber cup.  It has a wonderful, smooth, full-bodied flavor that infuses very quickly.  The taste has a hint of a fruity-plum flavor that makes it distinctive from other black teas. Of all the Bolivian teas this was the Project Foodie team's overwhelming favorite.  

Bolivian Large Leaf Black:   This tea has very large 2" to 3" jet black leaves.  The resulting brew is bright amber cup with a garden-like aroma.  This tea is also full-bodied and produces an apricot peach after taste.
    
Bolivian Green - Jasmine:  This tea has medium sized, olive-green leaves with a jasmine aroma that produces a surprisingly bright yellow-green cup with a clear jasmine taste. If you are a green tea enthusiast who enjoys Jasmine this is a tea to try.
    
Bolivian Green - Large Leaf: Like its black counterpart, these olive-green leaves have a truly unique 2-3" length. The wet leaf has an herbal green bouquet with a bright sparkling appearance in the cup. The taste is clean, smooth and slightly sweet; similar in style to a Japanese green.

About the Tea Taster

Simpson & Vail are purveyors of fine tea with an on-line store and a retail store.  At Simpson & Vail you will find a wide selection of Teas, Coffees, teaware, and food related items.  If you are in the area of Brookfield, Connecticut stop by and visit them.  Each Saturday from 10 am - 4 pm they offer samplings of 4 teas.  Whether on-line or in-person, Simpson & Vail is a great place to explore new teas or to simply indulge in your long time favorites.