The Gold Standard: 10 Teas for Goldenrod Honey
September 04, 2024
by Natasha Nesic
Have You Ever Heard of Goldenrod?
Aside from being a lovely ochre-yellow crayon in the signature Crayola collection, Goldenrod—also known as Solidago—is a variety of perennial flowering plants native to North America and parts of Europe. It typically blooms in late summer and early autumn, and guess what? It's edible! How cool is that?
Goldenrod Honey: A Distinctive Flavor
As you might expect, Goldenrod Honey is characterized by its vibrant golden color and rich, robust flavor. Its taste is often described as strong, with slightly spicy undertones and hints of anise or licorice. This unique flavor makes it a favorite among honey connoisseurs and tea lovers alike.The Perfect Tea Pairings for Goldenrod Honey
Now, let's explore which Adagio teas pair best with this delightful specimen of sweetness.1. Chamomile
Starting with a caffeine-free option, Chamomile is an ideal companion for wild, full-flavored honeys like Goldenrod. Its neutral base lets the honey’s flavors shine through. Try adding a teaspoon of honey and savor how the different nuances play with the inherent flavors in the cup.2. Peppermint
Adagio’s Peppermint is zingy and sharp on its own, but adding Goldenrod honey smooths out its bitterness, especially if oversteeped. This combination not only creates a winning flavor but also doubles as a traditional folk remedy during flu season.
3. Spearmint
For a softer alternative to peppermint, try Spearmint. Goldenrod honey elevates this mild tea, letting it sing with sweetness while avoiding any overpowering spiciness. Like the others, it's caffeine-free, making it perfect for winding down at night.
4. Yerba Mate
Yerba Mate often gets a bad rap due to its bitterness, but Goldenrod honey is the perfect solution. This honey mellows out the tannins and enhances the flavor, making it an enjoyable and balanced cup. Start with just a teaspoon and explore how the honey interacts with the yerba mate.
5. Toasted Mate
For a roasty and coffee-like experience, try Toasted Mate. Adding Goldenrod honey brings out the deeper, richer flavors of the mate. It’s a great option for those mornings when you need something bold but still want a touch of sweetness.
6. Dragonwell
Dragonwell is a green tea that’s known to be delicate and easily oversteeped. A bit of Goldenrod honey helps balance its natural flavors and prevents any bitterness from overpowering the cup. For best results, steep this tea at a lower temperature using a [variable temperature kettle](https://www.adagio.com/teaware/utiliTEA_kettle.html).7. Gunpowder
The smoky and earthy notes of Gunpowder tea can sometimes mask its fruity undertones. Goldenrod honey helps reveal hidden flavors, like apricot or almond, making this tea a more complex and enjoyable experience.8. Sleeping Dragon
If you enjoy a grassy vegetal taste, Sleeping Dragon is for you. Adding Goldenrod honey brings out the exciting depths of this tea, allowing you to enjoy both its vegetal and spicy notes.