Teas of the world: Masala Chai

Enjoyed by millions in India, masala chai, a spiced, sweetened black tea mixed with milk, is now popular around the world. It is sold all over India by chai wallahs, or tea vendors, who pour the tea from big kettles into small cups. The name has been incorrectly shortened to chai (which means simply "milk tea"); masala refers to the combination of spices, which often includes cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, pepper, fennel, and star anise. Every family in India has its own recipe for chai, and they are many regional variations, all, however, following the same principles - boil a combination of spices with sweetened milk. 

Chai is such an integral part of Indian culture, I think that any Indian who scrutinizes Europe’s recent chai craze might wonder, “What took you so long?”Our High Teas collection of masala chai teas is broad, from the homely family style through to the urban and sophisticated. Chai is one of the world’s great comfort drinks without being alcoholic.

From the humble Mumbai Chai to the sophisticated and urban Bangalore Rose Chai, they offer a very enriching experience.

A selection of superb Masala Chai Teas

Cochin Masala Chai: From South India
The finish has cardamon notes peeking out from lively ginger. A real delight especially with milk and sugar.

Bangalore Rose Chai
Light floral notes mingle with masala highlights. A superb balance of tea and spices. Milk and sugar create an extravaganza.

White Chocolate Chai
Seasonal Malabar coast spices with sweet caramel come to the fore leading to a sensuous Belgian chocolate finish. Outstanding!