Much like a wine or cheese, the quality of any given tea is highly dependent on where it was harvested. For certain teas, however, when it was harvested is just as, if not more, important. For example, during the first few weeks of spring, as assamica tea plants in northwestern India begin to mature, their first flush of leaf buds end in a distinct, golden tip. These golden-tipped leaves are prized for being richer, sweeter, and even slightly higher in caffeine than standard Assam leaves (which are already quite excellent)—and they’re exactly what you’ll find in every box of Trader Joe’s Organic Assam Golden Black Tea. Bold and malty, with a faintly fruity profile, this full-flavored Assam Golden Black Tea is cultivated for us using organic practices in India’s bountiful Brahmaputra valley, nestled in the state of Assam (from which this tea gets its name, in fact). It serves just as well hot or iced, as-is or with a splash of milk or your favorite non-dairy creamer. We find that its strong character and notes of toasted rice make it a lovely pairing option for breakfast pastries, fresh fruit, or a nice, sharp Cheddar cheese. And just as timing is important to this tea’s harvest, it’s also paramount if you want to pick up a box at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s, because supplies of this Organic Assam Golden Black Tea are decidedly limited.