What is the flavor profile of this tea, and how does it differ from standard black tea?

Alteja Black Tea with Bergenia and Birch Buds is designed for drinkers who find standard black teas too simple or lack the complexity they seek. The base provides the familiar depth and gentle caffeine stimulation of black tea, but the addition of bergenia leaf and birch buds creates a distinctly northern, forest-like profile. Expect a taste that is slightly astringent, resinous, and softly balsamic, rather than sweet or light.

Bergenia, also known as badan or Mongolian tea, contributes a high tannin content. In the cup, these tannins create a dry, pleasantly puckering sensation on the tongue and give the infusion a darker, more robust body. Birch buds add aromatic compounds and plant flavonoids that shape the scent, contributing a woody freshness that lingers after sipping without making the tea taste "green" or grassy. The result is a deep, brisk cup with an earthy nuance that matches well with the woody notes of the birch.