The holidays are the perfect time to head home, reconnect with family and friends, and, of course, indulge in some TV marathons. Looking for a series to get lost in over the next few days? Here are a few suggestions to pair with your favorite tea. Try a “sip-along” with these characters for a unique twist on a drinking game!
A Charlie Brown Christmas
A calming, simple tea like chamomile or rooibos reflects the gentle, heartwarming essence of A Charlie Brown Christmas. These teas are caffeine-free and soothing, perfect for cozying up with the sweet, reflective tone of the movie.
Star Trek: the Next Generation
The inimitable Patrick Stewart takes on the role of of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in this classic sci-fi show. With a healthy dose of harrowing space adventures and the constant threat of Klingons, it’s no wonder the captain can often be found steadying his nerves of steel with a nice Earl Grey.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
What do a bunch of crazy kids from California living in the 90’s know about tea? If you guessed “nothing” you’re absolutely right! Thank goodness British ex-pat Giles is around to help Buffy learn a thing or two about the importance of good tea. When he’s not helping to halt the next Apocalypse or helping Buffy and the gang slay the monster of the week, this ever-sophisticated, book-loving librarian is often enjoying a hot cuppa. His persona would pair well with a tea as classic, layered, and mysterious as he is. Try our smoky Lapsang Souchong Chinese Black Tea.
The Polar Express
Our South of the Border Chocolate Tea with a hint of cinnamon (as in Mexican hot chocolate) and chili pepper, matches the warmth and magic of the train ride to the North Pole. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the cozy, wintry journey.
Dr. Who
Another great show for all of the Sci-Fi buffs out there. This staple of British television has been around since the 60’s and features a different lead actor in the part of “The Doctor” every few seasons. If you’re looking to get lost in a show with a huge, sprawling mythology, a British sensibility, and the occasional spot of tea, this is a great one! For a cozy Doctor Who viewing session, try a classic English Breakfast.
Downton Abbey
If everything else on this list sounds a bit ‘lowbrow’ to you, you might be interested in taking high tea with the Dowager Countess at Downton Abbey instead (although, you should be warned, she may not be very nice to you depending on your pedigree). The series explores the twists, turns, pitfalls and more of the Crawley family and their servants. This post-Edwardian drama is perfect for fans of the film Gosford Park who love intrigue, romance and a splash of history. If you’re trying to sip-along with this one, just make sure you have a lot of tea brewed and ready to go. These folks drink tea like it’s their day job, because for some of them, it is! Known as the “champagne of teas,” Darjeeling is light and floral, mirroring the elegance of the Crawley family. It’s perfect for a formal tea that would be enjoyed in the Downton drawing room.
The Holiday
This cozy and romantic movie calls for something warm and spiced like Gourmet Almond Biscotti Black Tea, reminiscent of holiday baking. The sweet and spicy notes bring warmth, much like the film’s charm and comfort.