I have a confession to make… I drink a lot more tea when I’m in Ireland than I do here in the States. And I’m pretty sure I know why.
There’s just something about a proper cup of Irish tea.
For me, it has to be Barry’s (made in Cork). Maybe it’s because I was born in Ireland, or maybe it’s because Barry’s has that rich, full-bodied flavor that seems to taste even better when you’re sitting in an Irish kitchen, looking out at the rain. Either way, I’m a Barry’s girl!
Irish tea is traditionally made with stronger blends, often with Assam and African teas, giving it that deep, robust flavor that holds up beautifully to a good splash of milk. And yes, the water can make a difference too. Add in the Irish ritual of letting the tea properly “mash,” adding milk, and perhaps a biscuit or two, and suddenly you have more than a cup of tea.
You have a moment.
Tea in Ireland is hospitality. It’s conversation. It’s someone saying, “Will you have a cup of tea?” when you walk through the door. And somehow, the kettle always seems to find its way onto the stove when there’s catching up to do.
So while I am back in Ireland, I know one thing for certain: I’ll be drinking considerably more tea than I do at home.
Maybe it’s the Barry’s. Maybe it’s the water. Maybe it’s the rain outside.
Or maybe… it just tastes like home.
