This is a very tart and crisp tea.  I love the flavorings -  the raspberry is delicious and very prominent and the lemongrass is also very discernible.

I think that the hibiscus and rosehips were an unfortunate addition to this blend, because it would have tasted so much better without them (too many fruit blends rely heavily on hibiscus and rosehips…if you’ve ever had a “zinger” tea, it probably had hibiscus and rosehips in it).  The hibiscus and rosehips contribute heavily to the tartness inherent in this blend.

Because this blend is so naturally tart, a low steep time is recommended.  I think the 5-6 minutes suggested by Teavana is a bit much – 1-2 minutes found this tea much more palateable.

Teavana describes this tea as:

Get all-day energy from the invigorating fusion of tart raspberry and lemon, with a high-octane jolt of pure Argentinean Maté. The brisk lemon and tangy raspberry give this green Maté the character and flavor you’re craving.

This Maté tea contains 21 vitamins and minerals. In addition, studies show that Maté teas are a cardiovascular aid, help suppress hunger, aid in weight loss, and act as a mental and physical stimulant. This tea contains approximately the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee.

Use 1.5 teaspoons of tea per 8oz of water. Heat water to 208 degrees and steep for 5-6 minutes. 2oz of tea equals 25-30 teaspoons.

Ingredients: Green Yerba Maté, raspberries, apple bits, rosehips, hibiscus blossoms, lemongrass, and pink rose buds.

Because of its palate-cleansing tartness, zingy fruit flavor and caffeine, this is the PERFECT morning tea, served hot on cold mornings or cold on hot mornings.  This tea is EXCEPTIONAL when iced; I was extremely impressed with how the flavors balanced well when iced.

The appearance of the dried leaves is absolutely stunning, which is par for the course for a Teavana blend…you can see giant whole dried raspberries, long crisp stalks of lemongrass, chunks of apples, and the most beautiful pink rosebuds amidst the green squares of Yerba Maté.