When I first opened Tea Market in 2002, Black Currant was my personal favorite. While my tastes have expanded into realms that sometimes seem a galaxy away, I have fond memories when I think back to those early days. Grab a cup of tea and I'll spill the Inside Scoop on my first love, Black Currant...

Stacie Robertson

My First Love Wasn't Green Tea

(1 minute read)

I have such nostalgia when I think about those early days when Tea Market was the only tea shop in Kansas City and Black Currant kept me company. Loose leaf tea was not yet a "thing" and my advertisting budget was non-existent. I was off to shall we say, a slow start. From the very first day, Friday, August 2, 2002, when I turned that little wooden sign around to open Tea Market I offered everyone who entered a sample of tea. 

On most of those early days I steeped a pumper pot of Black Currant as the Tea of the Day because it was very likely I would be the one drinking it.

My how things have changed. One that hasn't is my fondness for this noble tea friend. With a sweet tart taste all its own, I love the subtle berry notes Black Currant offers. And to this day, I continue to recommend it to those getting to know tea for the first time! 

20th Anniversary Celebration

Save the Date: August 18th

4:00 to 7:00

You'll want to put this date on your calendar!

August 18th I'll be hosting Tea Market's 20th Anniversary. Beginning at 4:00 there will be treats, libations, and of course a special Black Currant Anniversary Tea Blend! 

Be sure to STAY for the door prize giveaways

on the hour begining at 5:00!

Over the past 20 years I've met some wonderful people who continue to support me and my little business. I have so much to be thankful for. Please help me share my gratitude with you.



Photo Credit: Lea Murphy Photography

Black Currant - the Forbidden Fruit

If black currants have higher levels of antioxidants, more total vitamins and minerals than blueberries or pomegranates and 4 times the Vitamin C in oranges why were they banned? Here's the Inside Scoop!

The Brits turned to black currants during WWII when it was hard to get citrus fruit and this is likely how they found their way into tea. They were also popular in the US but came to be referred to as a forbidden fruit.

Growing black currants was banned in the early 1900s for spreading a fungus considered a threat to the pine logging industry. Over time new varieties were developed and finally, in 1966, the federal ban was lifted.

Our Black Currant is a premium black tea with a deep fruit forward berry flavor from all natural dried currants. It's a classic anytime you want a flavorful cup with just a hint of berry sweetness.