There are few rituals more comforting than a cup of tea.
For me, growing up in the Midlands, tea wasn’t simply a drink -it was a welcome. The kettle would go on before coats were even off, and within minutes you’d be handed a steaming mug as naturally as a hug. Tea meant you were home.
So when I was invited to sample a range of high-end loose-leaf teas from Eastington-based company Great Tea, I knew this wasn’t something I could turn down.
Join us now to watch Alex chatting with Faye over tea
Founded by Alex Bomberg, Great Tea was born from a genuine passion. Through his international career in security, Alex has travelled extensively, staying in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and restaurants. It was there he discovered that exceptional hospitality often begins with the simplest gesture – a truly great cup of tea.
Today, the entrepreneur curates more than 50 varieties, sourced from around the globe, with plans to expand the collection even further.
When I met Alex at his home in Eastington, the experience felt more like a tasting ceremony than an afternoon brew. Three bowls of loose-leaf tea were laid out before us. The leaves were striking -whole, rustic, beautifully imperfect. Twisted silvers, deep forest greens, earthy browns. Nothing like the uniform granules many of us are used to.
“This,” Alex explained, “is how tea used to look in Britain over 100 years ago — before tea bags changed everything.”
We began with Silver Needle, steeped briefly and served without milk. As someone devoted to a strong builder’s tea, I expected delicacy to mean weakness. I was wrong. The liquor was pale and luminous, yet layered with subtle sweetness and soft floral notes. Clean, elegant and unexpectedly indulgent. Even better, the leaves can be infused three or four times, evolving gently with each brew, before being composted-entirely biodegradable and free from microplastics.
Next came an organic Oolong, hand-picked from ancient trees in the Chinese mountains and roasted over charcoal. The aroma alone was captivating. On the palate, it was smooth and refined, with a whisper of smokiness that lingered beautifully. It felt contemplative- a tea to sit with.
Finally, we tried a Pu-erh made from wild-grown tea trees. Richer and deeper in character, it carried the comforting strength I associate with home, but without a trace of bitterness. Bold yet pure. It was, quite simply, gorgeous.
What struck me most wasn’t just the flavour-it was the experience. Slowing down. Noticing aroma, colour, texture. Allowing tea to be more than background fuel for a busy day.
Perhaps we’ve forgotten that tea can be an occasion.
To explore the full range and discover your own ritual, visit www.great-tea.co.uk.
