In many parts of the United States, the brilliant fall colors are taking their places, bursting forth in a riot of eye-catching tones. Temperatures are cooling and autumn is firmly in place. Tea drinkers are seeking out comforting, warm flavors.
Cinnamon, cardamom and other spices: As cinnamon and cardamon take their place as dominant flavors it is not surprising that chai becomes a popular choice. Because traditional masala chais often include spices like clove and ginger as well, their popularity extends beyond the fall and through the winter holidays.
Apple: With fall comes apple picking season. There is nothing more traditionally fall than that first crunch into the crisp red fruit.
Pumpkin: The creamy, rich bites of pumpkin are an autumn staple. From toasted pumpkin seeds to sweet pumpkin pie, everyone is on the hunt for pumpkin this time of year.
Cranberry: These tart red berries add brightness and a fresh fruity taste to dishes this season. Cranberries are often paired with fall spices in herbal and black tea-based blends.
Caramel: Sticky and sweet, caramel is a comforting favorite. It starts appearing in many black tea blends to add sweetness and richness to the cup.
Maple: Maple syrup is a decadent treat with a bold, much-loved flavor. It is appearing more frequently in fall lineups.
Looking to test out some of these fall flavors? These companies have created fall collections.
DAVIDsTEA: Pumpkin Chai, Sweet Apple Cider, Maple Sugar, Snickerdoodle and Yes We Cran
Teavana: Pumpkin Spice Brûlée Oolong, Spiced Apple Cider Rooibos, Maharaja Chai Oolong and more.
Capital Teas: Includes Apple Strudel, Caramel Toffee Pu-erh, Coconut Chai Rooibos, Pumpkin Chai and Roasted Almond
Republic of Tea: Includes Cardamon Cinnamon, Hot Apple Cider, Cranberry Spice, Cinnamon Plum, Caramel Apple and Caramel Vanilla
Flying Leaf Tea Co.: Includes A Pear to Remember, Mulled Apple Cider, The Nutty Butterscotch and Smashing Pumpkins