Intensity is not always a sign of quality

In the world of tea, certain flavours reveal themselves immediately. From the moment the tin is opened, then from the very first sip, they unmistakably fill the space. Others are more discreet: they sometimes require a few moments of attention before revealing themselves.

Neither of these approaches is necessarily better. They simply express two different ways of composing a tea.

At Hollin, we have often chosen restraint. Not because we seek discretion at all costs, but because we like to leave room for the tea itself. When we compose a blend, we seek a balance between leaves, fruits, flowers and spices. We do not want any single element to take all the light.

Take Éveil Bergamote, for example.

When the tin is opened, the bergamot is clearly present. In the cup, it becomes more subtle. The black tea retains its presence, the orange brings roundness, and the apple softens the whole.

The bergamot accompanies rather than dominates. This choice is deliberate.

In fashion, certain pieces immediately assert their identity. Others give precedence to the material, the cut or the detail. Both approaches have their admirers.

Tea sometimes works in the same way. Some people seek an immediately recognisable aromatic signature. Others appreciate more nuanced flavours that emerge gradually over the course of the tasting.

Restraint is not absence. A discreet flavour is not a non-existent flavour. It simply expresses itself differently: sometimes less overtly, sometimes with greater nuance.

At Hollin, we do not seek to compose fragrances. We seek to compose teas. That is why some of our creations may seem quieter at first. Rather than seeking to impress, they invite you to take the time to observe.

Intensity is not always a sign of quality. Sometimes, subtlety is too.