By skyforbes 5 Different Tastes of Kava Tea
The earthy, peppery, bitter, nutty, woody, and even sweet notes all have their origins in the kava itself.
This makes every cup of kava tea a unique and exciting journey for your taste buds.
Usually, your taste buds might detect these notes in kava tea:
1. Bold and Earthy
Kava is famous for its distinctive earthy and robust flavor.
This unique taste comes from the kavalactones found in the kava root, which not only give kava its distinct flavor but also contribute to its relaxing properties.
The earthy notes are what make kava tea stand out.
2. Peppery and Bitter Undertones
Kava tea often has peppery and slightly bitter undertones.
This bitterness is a result of the chalcones present in kava, which can vary in intensity depending on the specific kava variety and how you prepare it.
The peppery quality adds a layer of complexity to the overall taste.
3. Nutty and Woody Notes
Some kava teas surprise your taste buds with nutty and woody notes, similar to almonds or chestnuts.
These flavors are influenced by the drying and processing of the kava root.
Factors like how long it’s sun-dried and stored can impact the prominence of these notes, giving your kava experience a richer and more diverse flavor.
4. Hints of Sweetness
While kava is often known for its earthy and bitter notes, there are kava varieties that offer hints of sweetness.
These subtle sweet undertones are due to compounds like flavokavains.
They bring balance to the flavor, making these kavas particularly appealing to those new to kava tea.
5. Mouthfeel and Astringency
When you sip kava tea, you’ll experience a special mouthfeel.
The kavalactones in kava have a numbing effect on your tongue and mouth.
This numbing sensation is a defining characteristic of kava tea and adds to its overall sensory experience.