Scotch and Abram's Big Ben is an afternoon tea blend that takes a different approach - black tea and green tea blended together, with jasmine and cornflower petals adding a delicate floral and aromatic character. The green tea lightens the base and softens the tannins, while the jasmine petals give the cup a fragrant, slightly sweet quality that makes it feel refined and unhurried. Medium bodied, bright, and gently aromatic with a golden coppery colour. The jasmine is present but not aggressive - this is an approachable floral tea rather than an intense one. Best drunk without milk to appreciate the full aromatic character, though a splash is fine if you prefer it. How to brew the perfect cup Use water just off the boil - around 90°C to protect the green tea leaves. Use one heaped teaspoon per cup. Steep for 3 to 4 minutes. Don't over-steep - the green tea turns bitter quickly. Try it without milk first - the jasmine comes through cleanest without it. How does it compare? Lighter: Bewley's Irish Afternoon Similar aromatic character: Edinburgh Earl Grey More bergamot: Scotch and Abram's Earl Grey Bewley's Irish Afternoon is the closest comparison in terms of lightness and all-afternoon character. Edinburgh Earl Grey shares the same refined, aromatic quality but with bergamot rather than jasmine. Scotch and Abram's Earl Grey is the natural step up if you want something more assertively aromatic from the same brand.
