Tea and Literature:A Journey Through Flavors and Stories

side view cup of tea with open book and pink roses on wooden background

Welcome to our unique exploration where the world of teas collides beautifully with the realm of literature. In this blog post, we dive into the art of pairing different types of teas with various literary genres. Just as wine is paired with food, tea can be matched with books to enhance the reading experience. Let’s embark on this sensory journey of taste and tales.

Welcome to our unique exploration where the world of teas collides beautifully with the realm of literature. In this blog post, we dive into the art of pairing different types of teas with various literary genres. Just as wine is paired with food, tea can be matched with books to enhance the reading experience. Let’s embark on this sensory journey of taste and tales.

1. Calming Chamomile and Light Romance Novels

Tea Choice: Chamomile Tea
Book Genre: Light Romance
Recommended Read: “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman

Why They Pair Well: Chamomile tea, with its soothing and relaxing properties, perfectly complements the light-hearted and uplifting essence of a good romance novel. The gentle, floral notes of the tea mirror the tender moments in romance stories, creating a harmonious blend of warmth and comfort. As you turn through the pages of “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine,” a story about love, healing, and the power of kindness, let the calming effect of chamomile accompany you through Eleanor’s journey of self-discovery and emotional growth.

2. Robust Spiced Chai and Thrilling Mysteries

Tea Choice: Spiced Chai
Book Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Recommended Read: “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins

Why They Pair Well: The complex and bold flavors of spiced chai, with its notes of cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, are the perfect partners for the twists and turns of a gripping mystery novel. “The Girl on the Train” offers a suspenseful narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat, much like how a strong cup of chai invigorates your senses. Each sip mirrors the intensity of the plot, making for a truly immersive reading experience.

3. Earthy Pu-erh and Epic Fantasy

Tea Choice: Pu-erh Tea
Book Genre: Fantasy
Recommended Read: “The Name of the Wind” by Patrick Rothfuss

Why They Pair Well: The deep, earthy flavors of Pu-erh tea serve as an excellent companion to the rich and detailed worlds found in fantasy novels. “The Name of the Wind” is a tale filled with magic, adventure, and folklore. The complexity and depth of Pu-erh echo the intricate world-building and character development typical of epic fantasy, enhancing the escapism that this genre offers.

4. Bright Green Tea and Modern Poetry

Tea Choice: Green Tea
Book Genre: Poetry
Recommended Read: “Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur

Why They Pair Well: The light, refreshing qualities of green tea align beautifully with the crisp, succinct, and often poignant nature of modern poetry. “Milk and Honey” is a collection that explores themes of love, loss, and healing. The simplicity and clarity of green tea complement the raw and honest verses, creating a reflective and meditative environment for the reader.

5. Rich Black Tea and Classic Literature

Tea Choice: Black Tea
Book Genre: Classic Literature
Recommended Read: “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Why They Pair Well: The timeless and robust character of black tea is a match made in heaven for delving into classic literature. “Pride and Prejudice,” with its witty narrative and insightful commentary on 19th-century society, pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of black tea. Just as this tea has stood the test of time, so has Austen’s story, making them an ideal combination for a cozy reading session.


Tea and literature are both about the experience, the journey, and the flavors – whether of the tea itself or of the stories we read. By pairing them thoughtfully, we can enhance our enjoyment of both. So, next time you settle down with a good book, consider which tea might elevate your reading adventure. Happy reading, and even happier sipping!