Greece - 1450 Hellenic Exceptional Herbs - Organic Greek Mountain Tea

1450 Exceptional Mountain Herbs' Organic Greek Mountain Tea is composed exclusively of the flowering tops of Sideritis raeseri, a high-altitude species found in the mountains of the Kastoria region, Greece. Growing in dry, rocky terrain with minimal intervention, the plant develops slowly under wide shifts between day and night - conditions that shape both its structure and its expression in the cup.

Unlike typical mountain tea preparations, which include stems and leaves, 1450 selects only the flowers for use. This decision, made at the point of sorting, reflects a focus on quality over yield - retaining the most aromatic and refined part of the plant while setting aside the remainder. 1450’s approach remains focused on preserving that integrity in the Kotyli area. The herb is grown at altitude, sorted by hand, and dried using traditional methods, allowing the plant and its origin to remain fully intact from harvest to cup.

Clear and pale gold when brewed, it carries a gentle aromatic lift of dried meadow hay, wild herbs, and soft florals like chamomile, with a faint brightness that recalls citrus peel. The flavour is clean and composed, with a rounded body and a subtle, natural sweetness. A light mineral clarity runs through it, leading into a dry, steady finish that lingers without weight or bitterness.

Used in Greece since antiquity and noted by Dioscorides, Sideritis became a staple infusion in mountainous regions where it grows naturally and could be gathered, dried, and prepared with ease. Its place is not ceremonial, but constant - a herbal tea returned to regularly, often in the evening or after meals.

This tea has been recognised consistently at the Great Taste Awards over multiple years, reflecting its quality across harvests. It was further awarded Gold at the The Leafies 2025 - where Cha Dodo first encountered its character directly, and where its clarity of aroma and structure in the cup set it apart without need for explanation.

At Cha Dodo we offer this tea in two forms. The 20g box includes cotton tea bags and pegs, providing a considered way to prepare and share it. The 80g HoReCa pouch is presented simply, intended for those who wish to work more directly with the leaf.

Infusion Recommendations:
This herbal tisane can be infused at least two times, with each infusion revealing more of its character. Use freshly boiled water at 95°C and steep for 8-10 minutes, adding a little more time with each round.

Also excellent cold brewed overnight - just place 7-8g of tea in a 1 litre jug of water and leave it in the fridge for around 8-12 hours. Adjust quantity and time to taste.