Tea and Chocolate pair well at Huntington Woods Library

Mindo chocolates and tea from Socra Tea were featured at this weekend's pairing

Chocolate, tea and a little bitter/sweet history was on the menu at the Huntington Woods Library last Saturday.

In connection with the current DIA Exhibit, Bitter|Sweet: Coffee, Tea and Chocolate, Barb's Tea Service hosted: "Tea History with a Tea and Chocolate Pairing" to a "sold out" crowd at the Huntington Woods Library. Teas from Socra Tea were matched with tasting squares from Mindo Chocolate.

Rachel & Pam of BTS prepare the tea and serve guests chocolate

Four different tasty teas, ranging from Earl Grey to White Chai, were paired with absolutely delicious Mindo chocolate. Three of the sampling squares were dark chocolate featuring fruits or spices along with one milk chocolate with a hint of peppermint.

Four different types of chocolate were served

In one afternoon, we spanned several centuries and a few continents, covering the introduction of coffee, tea and chocolate to Europe around the 17th century. Although the focus was mostly on tea, we talked about the Royals early adoption of coffee and chocolate and, of course, those amazing chocolate rooms at Hampton Court Palace.

Barb T. and Barb G. at the Chocolate and Tea Pairing

Barb's Tea Service team (aka Rachel and Pam), brewed the tea onsite and served the chocolate. Guests each received a tea and chocolate pairing card and a BTS pen to take notes!

This was an amazing group of guests  and it was a pleasure to linger after the program and talk to everyone. We were introduced to some wonderful new friends and met up with a few of BTS's bff's, including Barb T.

Guiliana L. talks about Newby teas and presents samples to all guests

The program ended with a special treat from Newby Teas. Guiliana Loaiza, outreach coordinator for Newby Teas, presented one guest with a special zodiac tea for her birthday. All other guests received a sample tea packet to take home.

A special thanks to Anne Hage, Huntington Woods Librarian, for inviting us to present as well as all the guests who participated!

If you are interested in having BTS prepare a chocolate and tea pairing for your group, contact us anytime at barb@barbsteashop.com or 248-840-4356.  We'd be delighted to create and prepare a special tasting event just for you!