Professional Documents
Culture Documents
British
ISSUE
Downton Abbey
TEA TREATS
Pages 42
..................
AFTERNOON ON FAVORITE
ON F E TETEA
T E TREASURES
Tea at Sketch
ch B
Pages 55
British Blends
dss of Manchester
Pages 15 Pages 47
DISPLAY UNTIL AUGUST 11,
1, 2020
JULY/AUGUST 2020
..................................
VOLUME 17 . ISSUE 4
Tea —
“
the cups that cheer
but not inebriate.
—WILLIAM COWPER ”
teatimemagazine.com 2
table of contents
21
61 55
Embellishments Infusions Departments
13 Necessary Things: 17 The Perfect Cup: 7 Come for Tea
English Effects Keep Calm and Steep On A note from the editor
Teatime treasures and treats Lessons from History
9 Dear TeaTime
15 Our Favorites: 47 The Tea Experience: Letters from readers
British Blends Teatime in Manchester,
Something for all tastes City of Cotton 11 Tea Events Calendar
From industrial past to energetic present Events in July and August
19 Treasured Teapot:
Silver in the Summer 54 History Through Art 63 Resources for Readers
WM Hutton & Sons’ WMT22 The Met’s British Galleries’ exploration Essential information
of teatime
65 Advertisers’ Index
55 Think Sketch for Tea A guide to supporting companies
Indulgences A deliciously different experience
65 Recipe Index
21 A Cheery Teatime 58 The Tea Diaries: Helpful directory of featured foods
A table bedecked with Royal Albert wares Teatime with Technology
A virtual tea party
31 English Elegance
}
A quite proper afternoon tea 59 Farm to Cup
The story of Williamson Tea ON THE
41 Gluten-free Scone: COVER
Floral Kiss 61 Hen Party at the A Coalport Ming Rose
Elderflower and apricot Top of the World tea set, featured in the
Wedding festivities on the table setting for
42 The Official Orkney Islands “English Elegance” (page 31),
Downton Abbey is beautifully stately.
Afternoon Tea Cookbook Cover photography
Recipes for sweet treats from the new book by John O’Hagan
Styling by Courtni Bodiford
3 TeaTime July/August 2020
NEW
BOOK!
Teatime
BIRTHDAYS
Afternoon-Tea Celebrations
for All Ages
from the editors of TeaTime magazine
code: 83PBT20
July/August 2020 Volume 17, Issue 4
EDITORIAL
D I G I TA L M E D I A A D M I N I S T R AT I V E
MARKETING DIRECTOR Kristy Harrison HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR
MARKETING COORDINATOR Hannah Crowe Judy Brown Lazenby
ONLINE EDITOR Janece Maze IT DIRECTOR Matthew Scott Holt
DIGITAL DESIGNER Stephanie Lambert DEALER PROGRAM MANAGER
Janice Ritter
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT/EDITORIAL
Alex Kolar
I N T E G R AT E D M A R K E T I N G S O LU T I O N S
ACCOUNT DIRECTORS MARKETING COORDINATOR Gretchen Norris
Mary-Evelyn Dalton ADVERTISING PRODUCTION REPRESENTATIVE
Hagan Media/Katie Hagan [AL, FL, TN] Samantha Sullivan
Kathy Gross [FL, GA, MD, NC, SC, VA, DC, WV]
Katie Guasco [LA, MS, AR, TX] For assistance with advertising, please call (888) 411-8995.
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Christy Chachere Lohmann
DIRECT RESPONSE Hagan Media/Katie Hagan
DIGITAL AND SOCIAL BRAND PARTNERSHIPS
Kevin Masse
code: PTEBL19
editor’s letter
T E A PA I R I N G
Chamomile
Lavender Rooibos
paromi.com
Lemon Cupcakes ingredients. Mix well and repeat, stirring ABOUT THE BOOK:
with Lavender Frosting until incorporated. (This is a very light, The first installment of
Makes 48 miniature or 16 regular almost foamy batter.) Pour batter into Daryl Wood Gerber’s
cupcake liners, filling two-thirds full. whimsical new series
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened • Bake until a wooden pick inserted in stars Courtney Kelly,
¾ cup granulated sugar centers comes out clean, 13 to 15 minutes owner of Open Your
6 tablespoons sour cream for mini cupcakes or 15 to 17 minutes for Imagination, a fairy-
½ teaspoon vanilla extract regular cupcakes. Let cool in pan for gardening store and
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest 5 minutes. Remove from pan, and let cool tea shop in Carmel,
3 large egg whites, room temperature completely on wire racks. California. It’s a
1¼ cups all-purpose flour • Place frosting in a piping bag fitted special place brimming
2 teaspoons baking powder with a large star tip, and pipe onto cooled with good vibes, lush
¼ teaspoon salt cupcakes. If desired, decorate with dried greenery, miniature fairy
¼ cup whole milk lavender petals and lemon slice pieces. accessories, soothing
1 tablespoon water fountains, and host to
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Lavender Frosting book club teas. But when
Lavender Frosting (recipe follows) Makes 3 cups a neighboring business
Garnish: culinary dried lavender and owner turns up dead,
lemon slice pieces 1 cup unsalted butter Courtney must enlist
4 cups confectioners’ sugar, the help of some magical
• Preheat oven to 350°. Set 48 mini cup- more if needed friends to clear her name.
cake liners in the wells of a mini muffin 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk
pan or 16 cupcake liners in the wells of a 1¼ teaspoons lavender extract*,
regular muffin pan. more if desired ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Agatha
• In a large bowl, beat together butter and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Award–winning Daryl Wood
sugar with a mixer at medium speed until Gerber writes the French
fluffy. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and • In a small bowl, beat butter until Bistro Mysteries, as well as
lemon zest, and mix for 1 minute. smooth. Add 2 cups confectioners’ sugar, the nationally best-selling
• In a medium bowl, beat egg whites until and mix until smooth. Beat in 2 table- Cookbook Nook Mysteries.
frothy, approximately 2 minutes. Add egg spoons milk and extracts until smooth. She also writes stand-alone
whites to sugar mixture, and mix well Add remaining 2 cups confectioners’ sugar. suspense, which includes the
until incorporated. (If necessary, add more confectioners’ titles Day of Secrets and Girl on
• In another bowl, whisk together flour, sugar or the remaining 1 tablespoon milk the Run. Daryl loves to cook,
baking powder, and salt. to achieve correct consistency.) and she has a frisky golden-
• In a small bowl, stir together milk, doodle named Sparky who
1 tablespoon water, and lemon juice. *We used Lavender Extract Natural keeps her in line.
• Add half of dry ingredients to butter from Olive Nation, olivenation.com or
mixture. Mix well. Then add half of wet 617-580-3667. For more cozy mysteries, visit
KensingtonCozies.com.
July18
tea events calendar
11 15
Celebrate America Teatime Princess and Heroes Tea Party Tea Fest PDX
10:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m.
Anna Marie’s Tea Shop The Rosemary House and Sweet World Forestry Center
Liberty, Missouri Remembrances Tea Room Portland, Oregon
Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
Show your appreciation for the United Gather with fellow tea enthusiasts for a
States of America at a red, white, and Parents and children are invited to an daylong festival celebrating tea culture.
blue celebration full of food, tea, and unforgettable afternoon tea spent among Attendees will be able to peruse through
camaraderie. Sip, savor, and socialize at beloved characters. Hosted in the herb the wares of an impressive selection of
this patriotic tea party honoring those garden, this outdoor festivity, which costs vendors, discover an abundance of new
who have contributed to our privileges $30 per person, is a perfect summertime teas and accessories, and learn from
in this country. Th is event costs $28 activity with a menu everyone will love. seasoned professionals in the industry.
per person. Reserve your spot and learn To hold your place at this event, call For more information or to register for
more by calling 816-792-8777 or visiting 717-697-5111. For more information, this annual event, visit teafestpdx.com.
annateashop.com. visit therosemaryhouse.com.
79
August
18 22
Jane Austen Weekend: Butterfly Tea Party Tea with Elvis
Persuasion 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 1:00 p.m.
The Governor’s House in Hyde Park Texas Discovery Gardens Belle Grove Plantation
Hyde Park, Vermont Dallas, Texas King George, Virginia
Austenites won’t want to miss this Perfect for guests of all ages, the Texas Join the King of Rock ’n’ Roll for the
weekend full of literary-inspired activities Discovery Gardens at Fair Park welcome afternoon as Belle Grove Plantation
from a Regency-style dinner with English you to come dressed in fancy fi nery at hosts Elvis for afternoon tea. Enjoy
country dancing to quill-pen letter this must-attend affair full of treats, delightful recipes made from some of
writing to an English afternoon tea with tea, arts, and crafts, as well as a variety Elvis’s favorite foods. Sip your cup of tea
a lecture on taking tea in the time of of activities, followed by a special trip while being serenaded by the King with
Jane Austen. Packages for the entire to the Butterfly House for the daily tunes like “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Lonely
weekend are available, or participants butterfly release. Tickets for this event, Tonight.” Tickets for this event cost $40
can opt to purchase tickets for individual which range from $2 to $12, also includes if purchased on or before July 24, or
segments. Advance reservations are admission in the gardens. For more $50 from July 25 to August 22. You can
required. To learn more, call 802-888-6888 information or to purchase your tickets, purchase your ticket and learn more about
or visit onehundredmain.com. visit txdg.org. this tea party at bellegroveplantation.com.
If you would like to publicize a tea event in your area, please send details and information at least four months before
tell
us!
the event date to teatime@hoffmanmedia.com or to Tea Events Calendar, TeaTime Magazine, 1900 International Park
Drive, Suite 50, Birmingham, AL 35243. Your event could be included in a future issue.
TeaTime in Britain
LONDON AND LANCASHIRE, ENGLAND
October 4–11, 2020
We’re taking TeaTime on the road this year and heading across the pond,
so you can be steeped in English tea wares, history, and traditions and learn
recipes for classic British tea fare. This weeklong trip will begin and end
in London, with travel to the picturesque English countryside.
Tea tasting with Jane Pettigrew Daily afternoon teatime Cooking classes with Jon Whaite
English Effects
Delight your inner Anglophile
with these lovely tea treasures.
Classically British
The iconic Big Ben caddy from Ahmad Tea comes with a varied
selection of beloved English teas. ($15.50 for 40 teabags,
ahmadteausa.com or 800-637-7704)
Modern Beauty
Perfect Cup Adorned with black-and-
The gorgeous Camellia teacup and saucer instantly white botanicals, this
elevates teatime to an elegant affair. (£70.00, stylish three-tiered cake
fortnumandmason.com or +44 20 7734 8040) stand by British artist
Sarah Horne is perfect
for almost any tea table.
($139.99, tasteofbritain.com
Commemorative or 770-242-8585)
Blend
Harney & Sons celebrates
The British Galleries at
The MET with a tea-riffic
tribute to England’s long-
time favorite beverage.
(Read more on page 54.)
($10 for 20 sachets,
harney.com or 888-427-6398)
Top It Off
ff
Scrum
Scrumptious Lemon Curd &
Lavender
Laven is a delicious twist
ist
on aan afternoon tea staple
ple
and pair
pairs perfectly with warm m
scones. ($6.95,
( britsusa.com or
785-843-2288) 8)
teatimemagazine.com 14
our favorites
British Blends
From traditional black teas to a caffeine-free tisane, there’s
e’s something for all tastes.
Ringtons’ Fairtrade Earl Grey Taylors of Harrogate’s Mrs. Fry’s Blackcurrant Tea
TASTE OF BRITAIN Afternoon Darjeeling ROSE TREE COT TAGE
tasteofbritain.com • 770-242-8585 BRITS rosetreecottage.com • 626-793-3337
TEACUP: Royal A lbert Moss Rose britsusa.com • 785-843-2288 TEACUP: Royal A lbert Flower of the
“Those seeking a strong black tea will TEACUP: Wedgwood Swallow Month—Violet
thoroughly appreciate the balance of “The leaves of this brew, which come “The natural fruity notes in this blend
citrus notes from the characteristic from the highest gardens of the of Indian and Ceylon teas make it a
bergamot fl avor in this Earl Grey.” Himalayas, release a smooth infusion wonderful beverage morning, afternoon,
—Janice Ritter, dealer program manager with a slightly astringent aftertaste.” or evening.”
—Britt Stafford, associate editor —Leighann Bryant, art director
...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................
A GENTLE REMINDER: Most black teas and tisanes can be steeped in 212° (boiling) water for 3 to 5 minutes. However, some tea
purveyors may recommend less-than-boiling water, so please consult the packaging for the ideal temperature and infusion time.
All cups and saucers are available from Replacements, Ltd., 800-737-5223, replacements.com.
teaandwhimsey.com
Keep Calm
and Steep On
Lessons from history
Text by Bruce Richardson
Image from Benjamin Press Archives
A
s German bombs fell on London in September 1939,
the British government faced a dilemma they had
feared for some time. How would they protect
the vital commodity that fueled an empire?
That fuel was tea.
The London tea auctions, begun in 1679, soon came
to a halt, and the Ministry of Food commandeered the
nation’s tea stocks. Mincing Lane, the center of London’s
tea trade, was bombed in 1941, and half of the brokers’
offices and records were destroyed. More than 8,000
tons of tea were damaged that year. By 1942, most of the London street scene following an air raid circa 1940.
contents of 30 tea warehouses along the River Thames
had been dispersed to 500 locations across the country “Bring me another cuppa tea like this, and I’ll report you
for safekeeping. to the Council!”
Attempts at rationing took place, but somehow there Clean water, too, was hard to come by, which
was always tea to be had. The Rationing Division went prompted some wags to say, “Not so bad. Got a bit of a
so far as to dictate that a pound of tea had to serve 260 funny taste, though.”
cups of beverage—one hundred more cups than usual. Never mind that these workers were trying to cobble
Tea was the great “cheerer-upper” of the war. Every- together a proper pot of tea in a war zone! There was
one from the Queen downward can attest that civilians nothing they could do but keep calm and steep on.
and military alike turned instinctively to the solace of The world is again facing dark and difficult days as
the kitchen teapot, mobile canteen urn, or an improvised we deal with the effects of the COVID-19 virus, and tea
trench-built tea kettle. Their beloved tea ritual bound the is once more proving to be a vital fuel in our battle, as
nation together throughout their darkest hours. many online tea suppliers are reporting increased sales.
Water burners were lit in mobile tea canteens even Our rekindled love affair with tea has meant that many
before the flames of burning buildings were extinguished families consider tea to be one of the staples of the home
so that fire brigades and ambulance drivers might have a cupboard.
cup of tea as they completed their recovery tasks. As it has done for thousands of years, the comforting
Tea carts were spotted not only in the bombed-out ritual of tea is bringing a cup of serenity to frightened
streets of London but also on the back lines of the war’s minds. As it was in Britain 80 years ago, our common
battlegrounds. Hot tea followed the Allied troops as they benediction with fellow tea drinkers around the world
crossed France after D-Day. Grateful communities from might well be, “Keep calm and steep on.”
around the world raised funds to sponsor rolling tea
wagons that brought a bit of home comfort to battle-
weary soldiers. TeaTime Contributing Editor Bruce Richardson is
The workers aboard these mobile units were most Master Tea Blender at Kentucky’s Elmwood Inn Fine
often greeted with, “That was a lovely cup of tea.” But the Teas and coauthor of A Social History of Tea, available
British have strong feelings about their national bever- at elmwoodinn.com.
age. Novice tea makers were likely to be scolded with,
D
ating to 1800, WM Hutton & Sons—originally called
William Hutton—had a very humble start as a silverware
firm in Birmingham in the United Kingdom. Once the
company had established itself as an important player in
the silver industry, William Hutton, its eponymous
founder, moved the business almost 100 miles north
to Sheffield. Throughout its 130-year history, the
family-run manufacturer developed a variety of wares,
including the WMT22 teapot. The ribbed body and
intricately designed shoulders of this piece, along
with the contrasting geometric handle, create a
versatile adornment that can be used for a stylish
summer soirée or a casual celebration.
F a ffun, summertime
For ti
gathering, the WMT22 teapot,
creamer, and sugar bowl
star against soft blue linens
when complemented by the
striking navy and gilt designs
on Wedgwood’s Touraine salad
plate, teacups, and saucers, and
Royal Crown Derby’s Ashbourne
dinner plates. Golden Juilliard’s
Beautiful Blues flatware by Oneida adds a hint
of luxury to the affair.
teatimemagazine.com 20
A Cheery Teatime
A table bedecked with an assortment of Royal Albert wares
and a buffet featuring savories, scones, and sweets aplenty set the ambiance
for a lively and jovial afternoon tea.
Photography by John Bathie / Recipe Development/Food Styling by Janet Lambert / Styling by Courtni Bodiford
teatimemagazine.com 22
“Nowhere is the English genius of domesticity more notably
evident than in the festival of afternoon tea.”
—George R. Gissing, Isabel Clarendon, Volume 1
with a remaining bread slice to make
3 whole sandwiches.
• Using a serrated bread knife in a
gentle sawing motion, trim and dis-
card crusts from each sandwich to
create a 3-inch square. Cut each sand-
wich diagonally into 4 equal triangles.
Serve immediately, or cover with
damp paper towels, place in a covered
container, and refrigerate for a few
hours until serving time.
SAVOURIES COURSE:
Charles Dickens’ Black Tea Blend
SCONE COURSE:
Lewis Carroll’s Black Tea Blend
SWEETS COURSE:
Brontë Sisters’ Black Tea Blend
Walnut-Currant Scones flour, sugar, baking powder, and from dough, rerolling scraps as
Makes 15 salt. Using a pastry blender or needed. Place scones 2 inches apart
2 forks, cut in cold butter until it on prepared baking sheet.
2½ cups all-purpose flour resembles coarse crumbs. Add wal- • Brush tops of scones with remain-
⁄ cup granulated sugar nuts and currants, stirring until ing 1 tablespoon cream. Garnish
1 tablespoon baking powder combined. tops of scones with sanding sugar,
½ teaspoon salt • In a small bowl, stir together if desired.
4 tablespoons cold, unsalted butter, 1 cup cold cream and vanilla • Bake until edges of scones are
cubed extract. Add cream mixture to flour golden brown and a wooden pick
⁄ cup chopped toasted walnuts mixture, stirring until a dough inserted in centers comes out clean,
⁄ cup dried currants* begins to form. Working gently, 18 to 21 minutes. Serve warm.
1 cup plus 1 tablespoon cold heavy bring mixture together with hands
whipping cream, divided until a dough forms. Recommended Condiments
½ teaspoon vanilla extract • Turn out dough onto a lightly • Clotted Cream
Garnish: sanding sugar floured surface, and knead gently • Boysenberry Preserves
until smooth by patting dough and
• Preheat oven to 375°. Line a folding it in half 4 to 5 times. Using a *If desired, before using currants, soak
rimmed baking sheet with parch- rolling pin, roll out dough to a 1-inch them in very hot water for 3 minutes.
ment paper. thickness. Using a 2-inch round cut- Drain well. This rehydrates currants
• In a large bowl, whisk together ter dipped in flour, cut 15 scones and keeps them moist while baking.
teatimemagazine.com 28
Ginger Hob Knob Cookies Sticky Banoffee Cake additional sauce and garnish with
Makes 34 Makes 16 servings banana slices, if desired.
¾ cup all-purpose flour ¾ cup unsalted butter softened Toffee Caramel Sauce
¾ cup old-fashioned oats ⁄ cup firmly packed dark brown Makes 1⁄ cups
¾ teaspoon baking soda sugar
½ teaspoon salt large eggs 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
3 tablespoons chopped crystallized cup mashed ripe bananas ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
ginger (approximately 3 bananas ½ cup heavy whipping cream
½ cup unsalted butter, softened ½ teaspoon vanilla extract ⁄ teaspoon salt
½ cup granulated sugar ¾ cup allpurpose flour
1 tablespoon whole milk 1½ teaspoons baking powder • In a medium saucepan, stir
1 teaspoon golden dessert syrup* ¼ teaspoon salt together brown sugar, butter, and
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract Toffee Caramel Sauce (recipe follows) cream over medium-high heat until
1 (4-ounce) bar white chocolate Garnish: fresh banana slices butter melts and mixture is well
combined. Bring mixture to a boil.
• Preheat oven to 300°. Line 2 rim- • Preheat oven to 350°. Spray an Reduce heat to medium-low and
med baking sheets with parchment 8-inch square baking pan with boil gently until mixture thickens,
paper. cooking spray. Line with parchment stirring constantly, approximately
• In a medium bowl, whisk together paper and spray paper with cooking 8 minutes. Use immediately.
flour, oats, baking soda, salt, and spray.
ginger until combined. • In a large bowl, beat together
• In a large bowl, beat together butter and brown sugar with a Raspberry-Elderflower
butter and sugar with a mixer at mixer at medium-high speed until Fool
medium-high speed until thick and well combined, approximately Makes 6 (2-ounce) servings
creamy, approximately 3 minutes. 2 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time,
Beat in milk, syrup, and vanilla beating well after each addition. 6 ounces fresh raspberries
extract. Using a rubber spatula, fold Add mashed bananas and vanilla 3 tablespoons castor sugar*
flour mixture into butter mixture extract, beating until incorporated. 3 tablespoons elderflower liqueur**
until combined. • In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
• Using a 1 teaspoon-levered scoop, flour, baking powder, and salt until 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
portion dough. Roll dough portions combined. Add flour mixture to ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
into balls between palms of hands. butter mixture, beating until well Garnish: fresh raspberries and
Place dough balls 2 inches apart combined. Using an offset spatula, fresh mint
on prepared baking sheets. Flatten spread cake batter into prepared
each dough ball with a damp finger. pan. • In a medium bowl, using a fork,
• Bake until edges of cookies are • Bake until a wooden pick inserted lightly crush raspberries. Add castor
golden brown, 18 to 20 minutes. in center comes out clean, 25 to 27 sugar and liqueur, stirring until com-
Let cookies cool for 1 minute. minutes. Let cool completely in pan. bined. Let macerate for 30 minutes.
Transfer cookies to a wire cooling Remove cake from pan. • In a large bowl, beat together
rack and let cool completely. (Cook- • Increase oven temperature to broil. cream, confectioners’ sugar, and
ies should be very crisp.) Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. vanilla extract with a mixer at high
• Melt white chocolate according to • Using a long serrated knife, trim speed until thickened. Add raspberry
package directions. Transfer melted top of cake to create a level, even mixture to cream mixture, stirring
chocolate to a piping bag, and cut surface. Place cake, cut side down, to swirl together. Divide among
a small hole in tip of bag. Drizzle on prepared baking sheet. 6 (2-ounce) serving glasses.
melted chocolate onto cooled cook- • Using an offset spatula, spread • Garnish with a fresh raspberry and
ies. Let sit until chocolate hardens. ⅓ cup Toffee Caramel Sauce over sprig of mint, if desired. Serve imme-
• Store at room temperature in an top of cake. Broil cake 6 inches from diately, or place serving glasses on a
airtight container with layers sepa- heat until toffee sauce is bubbling, rimmed baking sheet and refrigerate
rated by wax paper for up to 3 days. approximately 1 minute. Carefully up to 2 hours before serving.
transfer cake to a cutting surface.
*We used Lyle’s Golden Dessert Syrup. Using a sharp knife, cut cake into *If castor sugar is not available, extra-fine
If not available, substitute 1 teaspoon 16 (2-inch) squares. granulated sugar may be used instead.
honey. • Just before serving, top with **We used St. Germain.
teatimemagazine.com 32
“Under certain
circumstances, there are
few hours in life more
agreeable than the hour
dedicated to the ceremony
known as afternoon tea.”
—Henry James
Mushroom-Dijon Aïoli
Makes ⁄ cup
1½ tablespoons water • Remove and discard trout skin. rectangles. Place bread rectangles
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin Using a fork, flake trout into pieces. onto prepared baking sheet.
4 ounces smoked trout • In the work bowl of a food proces- • Bake until firm and crisp, 7 to 10
½ cup sour cream sor, pulse together trout, gelatin minutes. Let cool completely.
1 tablespoon prepared creamy mixture, sour cream, horseradish, • Place 3 radish slices on each of
horseradish dill, lemon zest, whipping cream, 12 bread rectangles, overlapping slices.
1 tablespoon snipped fresh dill and pepper until combined. Trans- • Transfer cold salmon mousse to a
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest fer trout mousse to a container and piping bag fitted with a large open-
1 teaspoon heavy whipping cream refrigerate until cold and firm, at star tip (Wilton#1M). Pipe mousse in
⁄ ground white pepper least 6 hours. a scrolled shell pattern on top of rad-
12 very thin slices whole wheat bread • Preheat oven to 350°. Line a ish layer.
36 very thin slices radish* rimmed baking sheet with parch- • Cover each with a remaining bread
ment paper. rectangle. Serve within 1 hour.
• In a small bowl, stir together • Using a serrated bread knife, trim
1½ tablespoons water and gelatin. and discard crusts from bread slices. *We used a Kyocera adjustable
Let sit until gelatin dissolves. Cut bread slices into 24 (2½x1-inch) mandoline.
teatimemagazine.com 34
TEA
sommelier
....................................................................
SAVOURIES COURSE:
Hampstead Tea’s Organic English Breakfast Tea
marktwendell.com • 978-635-9200
SCONE COURSE:
Elmwood Inn Fine Teas’ Black Currant Black Tea
elmwoodinn.com • 800-765-2139
SWEETS COURSE:
Ahmad Tea’s Lemon & Ginger Herbal Tea
ahmadteausa.com • 800-637-7704
Orange Cream Scones • In a large bowl, whisk together dipped in flour, cut 13 scones from
Makes 13 flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, dough, rerolling scraps as needed.
and orange zest until combined. Place scones 2 inches apart on pre-
2½ cups all-purpose flour Using a pastry blender or 2 forks, pared baking sheet.
⁄ cup granulated sugar cut in cold butter until it resembles • In a small bowl, whisk together
1 tablespoon baking powder coarse crumbs. remaining 1 tablespoon cold cream
½ teaspoon salt • In a small bowl, whisk together and remaining egg until combined.
2 tablespoons fresh orange zest ½ cup cold cream, 1 egg, and vanilla Brush egg mixture over tops of
4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, extract. Add to flour mixture, stir- scones.
cubed ring until a dough begins to form. • Bake until edges of scones are
½ cup plus 1 tablespoon cold Working gently, bring mixture golden brown and a wooden pick
heavy whipping cream, divided together with hands until a dough inserted in centers comes out clean,
2 large eggs, divided forms. 18 to 21 minutes. Serve warm.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract • Turn out dough onto a lightly
floured surface, and knead gently R
Recommended d d Condiments
C di t
• Preheat oven to 375°. Line a 4 to 5 times. Using a rolling pin, roll • Devonshire Cream
rimmed baking sheet with parch- out dough to a 1-inch thickness. • Orange Marmalade
ment paper. Using a 2-inch fluted round cutter
teatimemagazine.com 36
Lemon Drizzle Cake *We used Micro Sun Daisies from Gour- Lightly flour top of dough. Lightly
Makes approximately 12 servings met Sweet Botanicals, 800-931-7530, flour an embossed rolling pin. Using
gourmetsweetbotanicals.com embossed rolling pin, roll pin over
1 cup unsalted butter, softened dough once to imprint pattern. Using
1¼ cups plus 2 tablespoons Lemon Syrup a 1¾-inch fluted square cutter, cut
granulated sugar, divided Makes 1 cup 30 cookies from dough. Using a thin-
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest edge metal spatula, carefully transfer
4 large eggs ⁄ cup water cookies to prepared baking sheets.
2 cups self-rising flour, sifted and ⁄ cup granulated sugar Repeat with remaining dough half.
divided ½ cup strained fresh lemon juice • Bake until edges of cookies are
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract barely lightly golden brown, approxi-
Lemon Syrup (recipe follows) • In a small saucepan, heat ∕ cup mately 7 minutes. Let cookies cool
Garnish: assorted fresh berries and water and sugar over medium-high completely.
edible flowers* heat, stirring occasionally, just until • Place Custard Cream Filling in a
water simmers and sugar dissolves. piping bag fitted with a medium
• Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a Let cool. Add lemon juice, stirring round tip (Wilton #12). Pipe Custard
9-inch springform pan with cooking until combined. Use immediately. Cream Filling around edge of flat side
spray. Line bottom with parchment of half of cookies, filling in outline.
paper and spray paper with cooking Cover with remaining cookies, pat-
spray. Custard Cream Cookies terned side up.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat together Makes 30 • Using a dry, clean paint brush,
butter, 1¼ cups sugar, and lemon brush edible dusting powder on tops
zest until light and fluffy, approxi- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened of cookies, if desired. Serve immedi-
mately 3 minutes. Add eggs one at ½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar ately, or store cookies in an airtight
a time, beating well after each addi- 2¼ teaspoons granulated sugar container and refrigerate, up to
tion, adding 2 tablespoons flour with ½ teaspoon salt 2 days. Let cookies come to room
the last egg to help prevent curdling. 1 large egg temperature before serving.
Add vanilla extract, stirring until ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
incorporated. Using a rubber spat- ¼ teaspoon almond extract *We used a Uspacific embossing rolling
ula, fold in remaining 1¾ cups plus 3 cups all-purpose flour pin, available from amazon.com.
2 tablespoons flour until combined. Embossing rolling pin* **We used Kerry Vincent Pastels Berry
• Using an offset spatula, spread bat- Custard Cream Filling (recipe follows) Mist Edible Dusting Powder from CSA
ter into prepared pan, creating a level Garnish: edible dusting powder** Sugar Art. Visit csasugartart.com for
surface. Tap pan gently on counter- retailers.
top to level and reduce air bubbles. • In a large mixing bowl, beat together
• Bake until edges of cake are golden butter, sugars, and salt with a mixer Custard Cream Filling
brown and a wooden pick inserted at medium-high speed until thick Makes 1¼ cups
in center comes out clean, 43 to 45 and creamy, approximately 2 minutes.
minutes. Let cake cool in pan for Add egg, vanilla extract, and almond 1¼ cups confectioners’ sugar
5 minutes. Using a skewer, deeply extract, beating until combined. ¼ cup British custard powder*
pierce cake at least 20 times. Slowly Using an offset spatula, fold in flour ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
pour Lemon Syrup over cake, let- until incorporated. (If necessary, use 1 tablespoon whole milk
ting it absorb. Sprinkle remaining hands to bring dough together.)
2 tablespoons sugar over cake. Let • Turn out dough onto a lightly • In a large mixing bowl, beat
cake cool completely in pan. Remove floured surface, and divide in half. together confectioners’ sugar, custard
from cake pan. Shape each dough half into a disk, powder, butter, and milk with a mixer
• Garnish with fresh berries and and wrap in plastic wrap. Refriger- at medium-high speed until com-
edible flowers, if desired. Serve ate for at least 60 minutes. bined, 3 to 4 minutes. Place Custard
immediately. • Preheat oven to 400°. Line several Cream Filling in a covered container
rimmed baking sheets with parch- and refrigerate until slightly chilled,
MAKEAHEAD TIP: Lemon Drizzle Cake ment paper. approximately 20 minutes. (Mixture
can be made up to 3 days in advance and • Working with one dough half at a should be soft enough to pipe onto
stored at room temperature in an airtight time, turn out dough onto a lightly cookies.) Use immediately.
container. Garnish just before serving. floured surface. Using a rolling pin,
roll out dough to a ∕-inch thickness. *We used Bird’s Original Custard Powder.
Floral Kiss
Elderflower, an iconic
British flavor, pairs beautifully
with dried apricot for a
delectable scone that is perfect
for any teatime.
Elderflower-Apricot
Scones
Makes 11 to 13
parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together
sommelier Wu Yi Rock Oolong
A
lmost five years after offers an in-depth look at how the aristocracy and
the conclusion of the serving staff might have enjoyed tea. Published by
popular television Weldon Owen International in partnership with
series D
Downton Abb
Abbey andd a year following the release Carnival Films (the company that produced the movie),
of the franchise’s feature film—along with the anti- this cookbook features an impressive collection of
cipation for a sequel—the fanaticism for the British recipes, broken up into four chapters: Scones, Biscuits
historical drama ceases to fade. Whether it’s the & Cookies; Cakes & Tarts; Tea Sandwiches & Savory
fascination with the theatric entanglements among Bites; and Curds, Preserves & Creams. This assemblage
characters or the Anglophilic admiration for past is perfect for those looking to recreate a traditional tea
British style and traditions, avid fans continue to want party that would please even the Dowager Countess.
more. The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon Tea Cookbook, Toothsome fare, such as English Cream Scones and
a new tome released in April 2020, brings the spirit of Battenberg Cake, are accompanied by vivid photography
the series to the beloved British tradition of teatime. and stills from the show and film, making the book an
For those who aspire to host afternoon tea in the immersive read for fans wanting a glimpse into life in
style of the characters of Downton Abbey, this book the Edwardian period and the 1920s.
teatimemagazine.com 42
“Most of the recipes in the book would have been
treats the family would have encountered on their cake
stands,” explains food historian Regula Ysewjin, who
The fare for The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon Tea Cookbook managed the historical research for book. “Others are
drew inspiration from treats the seen throughout the show and film. those that they might have encountered on a trip to
In addition to a collection of recipes for savories, scones, and sweets, Paris. None of the recipes would have looked odd to the
the tome also offers a thorough history of afternoon tea and a guide family, which we thought was important.”
for proper attire and etiquette in the Edwardian period. Despite its title, The Official Downton Abbey Afternoon
Tea Cookbook holds more than recipes in its pages. A
thorough introduction, written by Regula, guides read-
ers through the nuances of tea traditions for the upper
class and nobility in contrast with the downstairs serv-
ing class, as well as a detailed history of afternoon tea
from its introduction to British society to the emergence
of public tearooms. Readers will also learn the impact tea
had for female empowerment through social gatherings
and the transformation of women’s attire.
“Afternoon tea was experiencing its height in popular-
ity in the era in which Downton Abbey was set,” Regula
notes. “Therefore, its custom doesn’t differ too much
from a grand afternoon tea in a London hotel today. It’s
tradition! And that is important to Brits. In village tea-
rooms, the custom is far more relaxed, as it would have
been in the tearoom in Rippon, where Lady Rose meets
with her beau.”
From cover to cover, The Official Downton Abbey
Afternoon Tea Cookbook contains content for not only
Downton Abbey devotees, but also those who appreciate
afternoon tea.
.........................................................................................................
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, plus a large spoon, stir in the currants • Using a pastry brush, lightly
more for the work surface and cream just until combined. brush the tops of the scones with
1 tablespoon baking powder Using your hands, gently gather the the egg white mixture, then sprin-
2 teaspoons sugar, plus 1 tablespoon dough together, kneading it against kle evenly with the remaining sugar.
for sprinkling the side of the bowl until it holds • Bake the scones until golden,
1 teaspoon salt together in a rough ball. 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a wire
½ cup (70 g) dried currants • Lightly flour a work surface and rack to cool. Serve warm or at room
¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons (200 ml) turn the dough out onto it. Roll temperature.
heavy cream out the dough about ¾ inch (2 cm)
thick. Using a 3-inch (7.5-cm) round Recommended Condiments
FOR THE TOPPING cutter, cut out rounds from the • Devonshire Cream
1 egg white, lightly beaten with dough, pressing straight down and • Raspberry Jam
1 teaspoon water lifting straight up and spacing them • Orange Marmalade
as closely together as possible. Place
• Preheat the oven to 425°F the dough rounds at least 2 inches
(220°C). Have ready an ungreased (5 cm) apart on the sheet pan. TEA ETIQUETTE
sheet pan. Gather up the dough scraps, knead A scone should always be torn in two
• In a large bowl, whisk together briefly on the floured work surface, rather than cut with a knife, which
the flour, baking powder, the roll out the dough again, cut out more would make the scone seem heavy.
2 teaspoons sugar, and salt. Using rounds, and add them to the pan.
teatimemagazine.com 44
Madeleines Battenberg Cake
Makes 12 tilting the pan to coat evenly and Makes 8 to 10 servings
then tapping out the excess.
These seashell-shaped French tea • In a bowl, using an electric mixer, Also known as a domino cake or
cakes were a customary addition to beat together the eggs, granulated church window cake, this almond-
the afternoon tea tray at Downton sugar, and salt on medium-high flavored checkerboard-style con-
and were kept in biscuit jars by speed until light and fluffy, about fection was named in honor of the
the beds of Mary, Edith, and Sybil 5 minutes. Beat in the vanilla. Turn 1884 marriage of Queen Victoria’s
for late-night snacking. They were off the mixer and sift the flour over granddaughter Victoria to Prince
also a favorite of Matthew, whose the egg mixture. With the mixer on Louis of Battenberg. Because of
middle-class upbringing showed low speed, beat in the flour until anti-German sentiment in Britain
when, on his first visit to Downton, fully incorporated. Turn off the during World War I, the Prince gave
he loaded up his plate with the mixer again and, using a rubber up his German name and dynastic
small, delicate cakelike madeleines. spatula, gently fold in half of the titles in 1917 and took an English
melted butter just until incorpo- name, Mountbatten (the surname
rated. Fold in the remaining melted of the current Prince Philip of
4 tablespoons (60 g) unsalted butter, butter just until blended. England, his grandson).
melted and cooled, plus room- • Scoop a heaping tablespoonful of
temperature butter for the pan the batter into each prepared mold.
½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour, Bake the madeleines, rotating the FOR THE CAKE
plus more for the pan pan back to front halfway through ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter,
2 eggs baking, until the tops spring back at room temperature, plus more
⁄ cup (70 g) granulated sugar when lightly pressed with a finger- for the pan and foil
¼ teaspoon salt tip, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the 1⁄ cups (170 g) all-purpose flour,
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract pan from the oven, immediately plus more for the pan and foil
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting invert it onto a wire rack, and tap ⁄ cup (40 g) almond flour
(optional) the pan on the rack to release the 1 teaspoon baking powder
madeleines. If any of them stick, ½ teaspoon salt
• Preheat the oven to 375°F turn the pan upright, loosen their 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
(190°C). Using a pastry brush, coat edges with a butter knife, and then 3 eggs, at room temperature
the 12 molds of a madeleine pan invert and tap again. Let cool com- ¾ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
with room-temperature butter, pletely. If desired, lightly dust the ½ teaspoon pure almond extract
carefully coating each and every tops with confectioners’ sugar just ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
ridge. Dust the molds with flour, before serving. 1 to 3 drops red or pink food coloring
FOR ASSEMBLY
⁄ cup (105 g) apricot jam
Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
1 tube (7 oz/198 g) marzipan
(preferably white)
teatimemagazine.com 46
the tea experience
Teatime in Manchester,
CITY OF COTTON
From industrial past to energetic present
Text by Jane Pettigrew
Photograph Courtesy of Marketing Manchester, marketingmanchester.com
B
efore the 18th century, Manchester was a flourishing market town that thrived on the wool trade. Then, at
the beginning of the Industrial Revolution in the 1760s, it found itself at the heart of the cotton industry,
as water-powered cotton mills sprang up in the north and east of the city. As weaving, spinning, and textile
design expanded in nearby towns, Manchester became the marketplace and distribution centre for raw cotton
and woven and spun yarn. Solid brick-built warehouses, smart office buildings, ostentatious banks, and a
Royal Exchange, where traders met to do business every week, dominated the city. And, although the area also
became important for engineering, foundries, and other heavy industry, by the mid-19th century, Manchester
was affectionately known as Cottonopolis.
Today, Manchester is going through a period of revival and regeneration. Reclaimed warehouses have become
bars, tearooms, restaurants, galleries, music venues, and performance spaces. It is young, vibrant, exciting, multi-
cultural, cutting edge. It’s a city of festivals, fashion, a world-renowned music scene, markets, canals, art galleries,
and museums—and plenty of good places to drink tea. Tea was, of course, extremely important during the noisy,
relentless days of the cotton mills. As more and more people left farm jobs and took employment in the heavy
mechanized industries, tea—made with safe boiled water, diluted with milk, and sweetened with sugar—offered
the comfort of a hot drink and the caffeine and energy that helped workers keep going through long, gruelling
10- or 12-hour shifts.
The following five hotels and tearooms, the best the city has to offer, all have close links to Manchester’s past
industries but also fit naturally into its energetic present.
teatimemagazine.com 48
the tea experience
Photograph by Filmsprockets
Photograph by Jane Pettigrew
Photograph by Filmsprockets
SUGAR JUNCTION
60 Tib Street, The Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1LG books, an old delivery bicycle hung on the back wall,
+44 161 839 1444 • sugarjunction.co.uk and a whimsical mix of 1930s and 40s pictures and dec-
orative objects on walls and shelves. It is comfortable,
What is today known as Manchester’s Northern Quar- relaxed, companionable, and serves excellent food,
ter was the site of the city’s first cotton mill, opened alcoholic drinks, and 18 types of quality tea. The tiered
in 1783, and by the 1840s, had become the epicentre Afternoon Tea stand includes sandwiches with various
of the textile industry, where wealthy merchants lived fillings that change daily, a fruit scone with dollops
cheek by jowl with the poor who depended on the mills of jam and clotted cream, and amazing pastries and
for their livelihood. The regeneration of the district slices of home-baked cake chosen from the selection of
today has given it an appealing bohemian charm and the day (such treats as raspberry and white chocolate
has encouraged the opening of independent fashion gâteau, lemon and blueberry cakes, Guinness cake,
stores, music shops, bars, quirky restaurants, art- Victoria sponge, and berry and passionfruit gâteau).
ists’ studios, and vintage clothing boutiques located Table wares are mix-and-match vintage, and teas include
in reclaimed warehouses and shops. Sugar Junction, a all the classics plus blends such as Tea at Tiffany’s
much-loved neighbourhood tearoom, is located in what (bergamot-infused black tea with lemon zest and rose
was once one of Tib Street’s famous pet shops, and petals), Northern Quarter (black tea blended with cara-
the welcoming interior has a vintage style that com- mel and hops), and Cherries Are a Girl’s Best Friend
bines the rough simplicity of bare brick walls, assorted (Japanese sencha with rose petals, cocoa shells, and
wooden chairs and tables (some converted from classic cherry flavour). Everything here is blended perfectly to
sewing machine bases), piles of well-thumbed hard-back create a really sociable and cheery tearoom.
teatimemagazine.com 50
the tea experience
GREAT JOHN STREET HOTEL Tea delivers tasty canapé-style bites, sweet treats, and
Great John Street, Manchester M3 4FD cheese and crackers. And, instead of, or as well as tea,
+44 161831 3211 • eclectichotels.co.uk/great-john-street try Gentleman Jack’s cocktail, a fusion of Jack Daniels,
citrus, and raspberry.
Atherton Street School, today the handsome Great John Like all these different locations, Great John Street
Street Hotel, was built in 1912 to educate children from Hotel weaves together so many important threads that
the families of wealthy local shopkeepers and the off- run through the city’s dense history and vigorous pres-
spring of poor water gypsies who lived on the nearby ent. Taking afternoon tea against this compelling back-
canals. In 2004, the building was acquired by the drop throws into new focus the layered and absorbing
Eclectic Hotel Collection and has been beautifully and story of tea’s past and present in Britain, its place at the
sympathetically converted to become a charming bou- heart of the industrial revolution and in our lives today,
tique hotel that retains many of the old school’s features. and Manchester’s similar talent for so successfully
Solid cast-iron radiators still warm the rooms; original merging the old with the new.
fireplaces have been restored; doors are marked
Headmaster’s Office, Library, and Girls’ Classroom; and
the staircases are still signposted Girls and Boys. The
outdoor Terrace Lounge and guests’ hot tub occupy
what was once the school playground—unusually on the
roof, presumably because there was no space at ground
level where the children could let off steam.
Afternoon tea is served in the Library Lounge, where
the coral and silver-grey décor creates a calm, elegant
ambience, or in the Oyster Bar, a smaller, more intimate
space decorated in warm shades of taupe, bronze, and
gold. Tea is served on an attractive mix of vintage china,
and the cake stand, prettily decorated with colourful
fruits, features delicious savouries, fresh-baked scones
and clotted cream, and beautiful cakes and pastries. For
chaps who want something more robust, The Gentleman’s
Contributing Editor Jane Pettigrew, an international tea expert who has written many books on the subject, including
her newest, Jane Pettigrew’s World of Tea, is a recipient of the British Empire Medal. A former tearoom owner, she
is a much-sought-after consultant to tea businesses and hotels, a conference speaker, and an award-winning tea edu-
cator. Although her travels take her around the globe, she resides in London, England.
teatimemagazine.com 52
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TEATS14/TEATS15
The reopening of The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s British Galleries
boasts a historical depiction of the different stages of the Empire’s
history, including a spotlight on the tea industry, which features a
collection of almost 100 teapots and other related wares.
Through Art
the utilitarian accoutrement to pieces of art. Visitors
will have the chance to admire wares from a variety of
ceramicists and potters, ranging from the Chelsea por-
celain manufactory to Staffordshire potteries, several
The Met’s British Galleries’ of which have not seen the light of day for decades. In
Exploration of Teatime addition to the two towers of teapots, the collection
includes other accessory items, such as a tea caddy and
sugar caddy from the 18th-century English silversmith
Text by Britt E. Stafford
Paul de Lamerie.
Photography Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Along with the return of this monumental exhibit,
The Met has partnered with renowned master tea
blenders Harney & Sons to create a trio of offerings as
A
fter a three-year abeyance, the English have once part of the museums’ milestone anniversary celebra-
again invaded the halls of The Metropolitan tion. These teas, along with a variety of other memen-
Museum of Art in New York City through the tos, are available for purchase at The Met Store or online
return of the British galleries. As a part of its yearlong at store.metmuseum.org, and through Harney & Sons at
150th anniversary celebration, the museum unveiled harney.com.
the Annie Laurie Aitken Galleries and Josephine Mercy .........................................................................................................
Heathcote Gallery on March 2, which feature 11,000 Afternoon tea is served daily in The Dining Room from
square feet dedicated to British art, design, and sculp- 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended and can
ture produced from the 16th to the 20th centuries. be made by calling 212-570-3975.
teatimemagazine.com 54
Think Sketch for Tea
A deliciously different experience for anyone London-bound
S
tepping over the threshold into the velvety powder pink
interior of Sketch in London is like plunging into a strawberry
mousse soufflé. From ceiling to floor, everything is deliciously
pink with rose metallic accents in the artsy décor, even down to
the chair legs wearing ballet slippers. Thanks to celebrated artist
David Shrigley’s surreal architectural concepts, the traditional
Mayfair townhouse, built in 1779 and housing the posh restaurant,
conceals disconnected elements of surprise. From the fantasy atmo-
sphere of The Glade (a mythical woodland cocktail bar) to a plethora
of satirical artworks smothering the walls in The Gallery, it feels as
if one has stepped into another world.
Sketch is the clever brainchild of restaurateur Mourad Mazouz
and celebrated Michelin-rated French master chef Pierre Gagnaire.
Hidden behind the scenes in a kitchen consistently whipping up
the most incredible pastries and mouthwatering teatime recipes,
we find a multinational group of chefs, as well as a small cache
An understated, conservative façade conceals a of French executive chefs who have crossed the English Channel,
colorful art-filled interior. determined to add their twist to an established British classic.
teatimemagazine.com 56
Photograph by Kerry Vincent
WELL, DID YOU EVER?
Taking tea is always an adventure, but who would have thought
the entertainment at Sketch might be found in the powder
room? All-white and with jeweled ceilings, it holds clusters of
egg-like pods that are actually individual restrooms. Because
patrons from around the world find this so intriguing, they
happily exchange cameras to capture memories of this most
unusual setup. As the tea captain cautions, before you follow the
crowd, enjoy your tea first. No one ever returns to the table in
less than 25 minutes, by which time your tea will be stone cold.
Award-winning cake designer Kerry Vincent is a televi- Architect David Shrigley also designed the quirky porcelain tea
sion host and a global traveller who seeks out interesting sets and tableware imprinted with cute messages to keep table
places for tea wherever she goes. conversation humming.
Technology gifted the tea set to them for their American Girl dolls
years before. The collective tea party didn’t mind in the
least what we were drinking from, though.
Text by Sylvia Evans
With the formal tea etiquette adhered to, we quickly
exploded into conversation about how online classes
W
hat better way to relieve the boredom of were going, what each was doing to keep entertained in
sheltering in place as a result of the unprece- our confinement, and even wished a happy Sweet 16
dented coronavirus pandemic than to take a birthday to our
deep breath, put on our best tea party hats, whip up second-born grand-
some yummy scones, and have a virtual tea party with daughter, Daniela, in
our granddaughters? Being a devotee of anything North Carolina.
teatime related, I was so excited to receive an email Our virtual after-
invitation from my daughter to attend a unique face- noon tea was one of
to-face tea party from coast to coast with our two the best tea parties I
North Carolina and two San Francisco granddaughters have ever attended. It
and our daughter. But the twist—it would be online! brought us all together
Then, considering my non–tech-savvy computer abil- when we couldn’t
ities, panic wafted over me. Could I get it together on my physically gather, gave
end with no IT department? All my nervousness escaped us an event to eagerly
when my very calm and knowledgeable 10-year-old anticipate, and sparked
granddaughter miraculously appeared on the computer our ingenuity in
screen and talked me through adjusting the sound and creatively conquering
clicking an icon to allow all of us to be seen on the screen social distancing and
at the same time. Isn’t technology wonderful? stay-at-home guide-
And there we were, all seven of us able to see each lines. Best of all, it was
other! We quickly poured our respective tea choices, such fun!
smeared clotted cream and jam on our scones, and lifted
our beautiful teacups to toast our love to each other. A tea aficionado, Sylvia Evans has instilled a love for tea
Some of us dined off of treasured heirloom china; one parties in her four granddaughters from an early age. She
group set a table of blue-and-white china, antique tea- also enjoys sewing and creating colorful glass and china
cups, and a teapot with a Christmas motif; but the third totems from thrift store finds for different seating areas
tea table brought laughter to everyone. A miniature in her Vista, California, garden, always incorporating a
65-year-old china tea set brought to me by my father teapot in each vignette.
teatimemagazine.com 58
Farm to Cup
The Story of Williamson Tea
Text by Britt E. Stafford
Photos Courtesy of Williamson Tea
F
or 151 years, Williamson Tea’s legacy in the tea “Kenya is God’s gift to tea growing, with fertile soils,
realm has gained acclaim for assuring quality in regular rainfall, and plenty of sunshine, making ideal
each blend and brew sold, from bush to cup. With conditions for growing high-quality teas,” says Edward,
tea farms in Kenya, the fifth-generation–run company who serves as Managing Director of Williamson Fine Tea.
strives to cultivate a treasured product, from its artfully Today, Williamson Tea—the retail side of the business
designed packaging to the leaves found within. known as Williamson Magor & Co.—works out of Little
The company began as a partnership between Captain Bedwyn in the United Kingdom. Over the course of its
J. H. Williamson and Richard Blamey Magor. Richard, extensive history, the company has expanded, owning
who had not been brought up in the tea industry, left a total of four farms: Changoi, Tinderet, Kaimosi, and
his home in Cornwall. “At the time in Cornwall, you Kapchorua in Kenya.
either went down a mine or went to sea,” Richard’s “Williamson Tea has over 150 years of experience
descendant Edward Magor explains. Rather than in the art of growing and producing fine teas,” Edward
adhere to either option, Richard moved to the Far East notes. “It is this experience and knowledge that allows us
and found work at the Great Eastern Hotel in Calcutta. to produce the famed high-quality teas that set us apart
A chance meeting with Captain Williamson, who was from other brands. As farmers, we are also unique. All
already well-versed in tea production in Assam, struck of our teas come with a ‘Tea Passport,’ a code of conduct
a partnership that neither could have predicted would endorsed by third-party certification bodies guarantee-
thrive another 150 years later. After World War II, ing not only our distinctive quality of manufacture, but
Richard left India to set up tea farms in East Africa. also truly sustainable and ethically produced tea.”
An African elephant serves as the iconic symbol for “We have a 150-year view on farming and the
Williamson Tea, as it represents not only the farms in importance of sustainability,” he says. “Caring for our
Kenya, but also the company’s commitment to wildlife farms and communities in an instinctive commitment.
conservation, started by Edward’s grandfather, who was As farmers, we are guardians of the land, and giving
heavily involved in the effort in India. In 2015, Edward back to the land, soil, and communities that live on our
set up a charitable partnership between Williamson Tea farms is essential if future generations are going to be
and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. The trust works sustained just as those before us have been.”
to offer hope for the survival and future of Kenya’s The amalgamation of Williamson Tea’s care and
elephant and rhino population against poachers and consideration for its hardworking employees, as well as
the loss of natural habitat due to human population, for the environment, results in an impressive variety of
human confl ict, deforestation, and drought. teas, which come straight from the lands of its private
“Wildlife conservation has always been very impor- farms and remain its hallmark and crowning glory.
tant to Williamson Tea,” Edward remarks. “The world .........................................................................................................
can live without many things, but it would be a sad day Williamson Tea products can be purchased from the
if there were no longer elephants and rhinos.” company’s website at williamsontea.com, or through
This effort and devotion are apparent not only Mark T. Wendell Tea Company (978-635-9200 or
through this special partnership, but are also reflected (marktwendell.com) or British Delights (britishdelights.com).
through the unique tea caddies designed by Edward’s
father, Philip Magor. Originally made from porcelain,
each container—now made of tin—depicts a different
elephant adorned in various artistic themes and makes
up a part of the Williamson Tea “herd.” This collection
has expanded over the years with decorative limited-
edition designs released annually.
But wildlife conservation is not the company’s only
charitable focus. The Williamson Tea Foundation invests
in social and environmental projects on all of its tea
farms and surrounding communities. Edward notes that
its biggest mission is to provide healthcare and education
to the farmers, their families, and their children.
teatimemagazine.com 60
Hen Party
at the Top of the World
Text and Photography by Rebecca Reuter
A
t first glance, the cold, treeless, and wind- and
rain-battered Orkney Islands north of Scotland
may seem more like a place where adventure
seekers go than a wedding destination. Upon closer
look, though, humans—including my fiancé’s ances-
tors—have called Orkney home for millennia.
Our first visit to this island archipelago was a quick
two-day trip in 2013. Two years later, when my fiancé
proposed, Orkney was the first place I thought of for
our wedding. My decision was based on the mysterious
connection I felt to a stone circle older than Stonehenge,
Photograph by Vishal Goklani, veeshphotography.com called the Ring of Brodgar. Walking halfway around
the stone circle to where the ceremony would be held,
and then walking the second half as man and wife, was
something out of a fairy tale I had never read. The cer-
emony would blend the old with the new and reclaim
the Orkneys into our family.
As word got out to our close friends and family, we
suddenly had 35 people flying in from the United States.
The wedding became more than just a ceremony with
our officiant.
For two years, I planned the wedding from Seattle,
Washington—4,000 miles away and in another coun-
try. One of the rewards for traveling to these islands at
59 degrees north latitude, just south of the Shetland
Islands, is to visit the 5,000-year-old UNESCO World
Heritage sites, including the Ring of Brodgar, called the
Heart of Neolithic Orkney.
teatimemagazine.com 62
resources for readers
19 21 31
COVER 800-888-0776, homegoods.com. Garden vintage 2-tier cake stand ($60), and
Coalport Ming Rose teapot ($349.95), décor and location courtesy of Sweet 3-piece place setting ($60); Polka Blue
footed cup and saucer set ($37.99), Pea’s Garden Shop, 2829 Linden Avenue, vintage 2-tier cake stand ($60); Cheeky
and sugar bowl and lid ($69.95) from Homewood, AL 35209, 205-879-3829, Pink vintage 3-tier cake stand ($85)
Replacements, Ltd., 800-737-5223, sweetpeasgardenshop.com. and 3-piece place setting ($60) from
replacements.com. Royal Albert, 877-720-3488, royalalbert
TREASURED TEAPOT: .com. Gorham Chantilly modern hollow
TITLE PAGE SILVER IN THE SUMMER knife ($19.99), salad fork ($59.99), and
Page 2: Royal Albert Polka Rose 3-piece Pages 19–20: WM Hutton & Sons teaspoon ($43.99) from Replacements,
tea set ($165) and Polka Blue vintage mix WMT22 sterling teapot ($649.95); Ltd., 800-737-5223, replacements.com.
3-piece place setting ($60) from Royal Wedgwood Touraine footed cup and The Hostess Collection condiment bowl
Albert, 877-720-3488, royalalbert.com. saucer set ($21.99) and salad plate ($4.99) from HomeGoods, 800-888-0776,
Flowers by Lindsey Harrington at ($21.99); Reed & Barton English homegoods.com. Floral arrangement by
Furbished Nest, 205-913-4841, Provincial sterling teaspoon ($39.99) and Lindsey Harrington at Furbished Nest,
thefurbishednest@gmail.com. Pink salad fork ($37.99) from Replacements, 205-913-4841, thefurbishednest@gmail
tablecloth from private collection. Ltd., 800-737-5223, replacements.com. .com. White napkins and pink tablecloth
Bella Casa runner ($9.99) from HomeGoods, from private collection. Location courtesy
MASTHEAD 800-888-0776, homegoods.com. of Mary Cummings.
Page 5: [Clockwise from top left] [Stately Jubilee] John Round & Son
Royal Albert Polka Blue vintage mix 10846 sterling creamer ($299.95) and ENGLISH ELEGANCE
3-piece place setting ($60) and New open sugar bowl ($299.95); Coalport Pages 31–39: Coalport Ming Rose teapot
Country Roses Assorted vintage ceramic Admiral White & Gold dinner plate ($349.95), footed cup and saucer set
spoon ($44 for set of 4) from Royal ($49.99); Coalport Sandringham Gray ($37.99), dessert plate ($33.99), creamer
Albert, 877-720-3488, royalalbert.com. salad plate (price not available) and ($45.99), sugar bowl and lid ($69.95),
Wedgwood Touraine footed cup and saucer footed cup and saucer set ($69.95); 5-inch ϐlared vase ($19.99), jam and jelly
set ($21.99); Coalport Sandringham Gray Towle Old English sterling modern hollow container with lid (price not available),
footed cup and saucer set ($69.95) from knife ($49.99), salad fork ($47.99), and square handled cake plate (price not
Replacements, Ltd., 800-737-5223, teaspoon ($23.99) from Replacements, available), smooth cake plate (price not
replacements.com. Royal Crown Derby Ltd., 800-737-5223, replacements.com. available), and bon bon bowl ($19.99);
Carlton Gold ϐlat cup ($85) and saucer Crown Linen Designs Victorian Linen Coalport 6143 Cobalt Blue dinner plate
($50) and Ashbourne footed cup ($105) napkin ($15) from Bromberg’s, 205-871- ($35.99) and 15-inch oval serving platter
and saucer ($65) from Bromberg’s, 3276, brombergs.com. Tablecloth from ($99.95); Oneida Silver Damask Rose
205-871-3276, brombergs.com. private collection. [Beautiful Blues] knife ($33.99), salad fork ($34.95), and
Royal Crown Derby Ashbourne dinner teaspoon ($29.99) from Replacements,
COZY CORNER plate ($150) from Bromberg’s, Ltd., 800-737-5223, replacements.com.
Page 10: Paciϐica Home Calla teacup and 205-871-3276, brombergs.com. Thyme & Sage tablecloth ($14.99) from
saucer set ($6.99) from HomeGoods, Wedgwood Touraine footed cup and HomeGoods, 800-888-0776, homegoods
saucer set ($21.99) and salad plate .com. Napkins (discontinued) from World
($21.99); Oneida Golden Julliard new Market, 877-967-5362, worldmarket.com.
Lady French hollow knife ($13.99), salad fork Flowers by Lindsey Harrington at
Bedford’s ($17.99), and teaspoon ($39.99) from Furbished Nest, 205-913-4841,
Tea Parlour & Gift Shoppe Replacements, Ltd., 800-737-5223, thefurbishednest@gmail.com. Glass
Celebrating 11 Years! replacements.com. Light blue tablecloth bowl for Devonshire cream and linen
and napkin set ($16.99) from HomeGoods, for scones bowl from private collection.
800-888-0776, homegoods.com. Location courtesy of Cherry Fishburne.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Recipe titles shown in gold are gluten-free, provided gluten-free versions of
processed ingredients (such as flours, prepared meats, sauces, extracts, and stocks) are used.
25
advertisers’ index
Ahmad Tea ....................................1 Hoffman Media Books .............. 53
Beverly Bremer Silver Shop ...... 18 Kensington Books ..................... 10
Chicago International Lady Bedford’s Tea Parlour ....... 63
Tea Festival ................................ 14 Mark T. Wendell Tea Company 18
Elmwood Inn Fine Teas............. 18 Mid-Atlantic Tea Association ... 16
Erika’s Tearoom ......................... 14 Ross Simons .................................8
Grace Tea Company ................... 65 Simpson & Vail, Inc. .................. 67
Grandma Rae ............................. 65 Stauer ......................................... 64
Gravity Defyer ........................... 66 Teatime Birthdays..........................4
Heilala Vanilla............................ 40 TeaTime in Britain ..................... 12
Highland Gourmet Scones........ 18 TeaTime Note Cards .....................6