Hoogly is the way you pronounce ‘hyggelig,’ a Nordic word used to capture the combined feelings of homely warmth and well being. Hygge is an experience; a year-round feeling of warmth, cosiness and wellness. The Danes have a preoccupation with Hygge and perhaps surprisingly, they are voted one of the happiest nations in the world. So just maybe, this tea could boost the mind as well! Since I’m a self-confessed tea addict and have tried just about everything out there, can Hoogly offer me something new – will the essence of ‘hyggelig’ rub off on me? Well, I recently taste-tested four Hoogly flavours: Rhubarb and Vanilla Green tea, Raspberry Liquorice and Lavender Black tea, Chill Out Mint and Cosy Chamomile Herbal infusion. Read on to find out what I discovered in this review…
Hoogly Teas combine creator Tina Gloggengieser’s love of tea with this mindful Nordic concept to create a unique and healthy indulgent range of blends, made with the finest natural ingredients. All the teas are hand-blended and packed in the South East of England, and are ethically sourced and fairly traded.
With twenty-six blends of tea with tempting names such as ‘ Apple Strudel Green tea’ and ‘Chocolate Brownie Black tea’, these could be perfect for anyone looking to indulge or comfort eat without actually reaching for those calorie-laden desserts!
Presentation & Packaging:
My first impressions of the product packaging is that this is a quality, luxury product with an upmarket and suave feel to it. The tea combines the philosophy of Danish ‘Hygge’ with the Brighton philosophy of trendy and Eco-friendly.
Appearance, Aroma & Taste:
Rhubarb and Vanilla Green Tea
The smell is beautiful and reminds me of aromatherapy, you can see the individual leaves in the product and it looks pretty. The taste is delicate as tea should be and the fruity rhubarb is swiftly followed by warm vanilla a great combination.
Raspberry Liquorice and Lavender Black Tea
There was a pleasant childhood memory for me in this one, as the smell reminds me of wine gums. When the tea is brewed, a light smell of lavender is noticeable overall making for a delicate taste experience.
I think next time I would drink it without milk so that the subtle flavours are not subdued. I find the somewhat novel combination of earthy liquorice, summery raspberry and lavender delightful.
Chill Out Mint
There is a knack to this type of tea brewing, the recommended time is 3- 5 minutes. In my opinion, 3 minutes seems about right for all these flavours just so it doesn’t get too strong (but do steep for 5 if you’d like to experience a deeper taste sensation).
Wow! what an amazing aroma this tea has. This is has to be my favourite so far, a potent mixture of mint with the smell and taste of pine here adding an unexpected twist.
Cosy Chamomile Herbal Infusion
Chamomile is great for relaxing the body and mind. In the appearance of the tea bag, you can see the chamomile flowers and the lavender buds which looks alluring and regal. Lemon verbena and rosehip lifts and brightens the familiar taste of chamomile to give a taste that is soothing yet uplifting. Plenty of ‘Hygge’ infused in here.
Value:
The average price here is £24.50 for a box of 50 tea bags and I would certainly describe this as a luxury product. It’s tea but not as you know it and the product feels like it would make a great Xmas gift, or anytime someone is in need of comforting!
The products carry a certain class about them, almost as if intending to reach out and wrap you up in an indulgent, cosy ‘Hygge’ moment. Unique, lovingly crafted and filled with the Nordic spirit of wellness, this is pretty good value if you truly enjoy the experience of savouring the flavour.
Summary:
The interesting thing about Hoogly tea is the fact that each tea has its distinct signature personality which you could match to the individual you are buying it for. Cosy Chamomile is very different from Raspberry Liquorice and Lavender for example. These teas are a treat but an ethical no-calorie treat at that, so it’s a win-win – what’s not to like?
