Tetley has introduced a new tea flavour into their range called Tetley Redbush. The new tea has been available in the UK since January this year and has rapidly gained popularity because it is naturally low in caffeine, very high in antioxidants and offers an alternative aromatic flavour to conventional tea, which is described as revitalising and refreshing.

Tetley released their new brand of Redbush tea in January 2011

Tetley Redbush is produced from the Rooibos bush (Aspalathus linearis, legume family) found in South Africa on the North Western Cape in the Cedarberg region (8,000 tonnes per year produced). Rooibos is the Afrikaans word for Redbush and was coined because when the green, needle-like leaves of the plant are cut and left to dry they develop a deep red hue. The Rooibos bush thrives in the very poor soil of marginal land and requires no irrigation or fertiliser.

The Rooibos plant, Aspalathus Linearis

The tea first came onto the commercial market in 1904 and first gained popularity during shortages of black tea especially during WWII. There are a whole host of health claims attributed to the tea and as such it has now been widely adopted as a healthier version of the Great British Cuppa. For those who are aware of Alexander McCall Smith, his No1 Ladies Detective Agency series has also helped the reputation of Redbush tea as his main character, Precious Ramotswe, drinks it quite a lot.

The Tetley Teafolk have made a comeback and will be promoting the new Redbush tea

The tea may be enjoyed without milk or any other additive. However a tastier drink may be produced by adding a splash of milk, a slice of lemon or a little honey.  The tea is a lot less bitter than black tea and needs no sugar to be added. It can also be reheated without affecting the flavour so no more stewed tea. It can also produce a fine iced tea or can be mixed with alcoholic drinks for a different flavour. In cooking the tea liquid can be used to tenderise meat and can be added to soups, puddings and desserts. In South Africa there is even an alcoholic version!

Tetley Redbush is available at Sainsbury’s, Asda, Morrisons and Tesco’s for around £1.69.