The Best Nordqvist Teas for Afternoon Tea: A Tasting Roundup

Afternoon tea is a cherished ritual—a pause in the day to gather with friends, sip warm brews, and indulge in delicate treats. While the tradition hails from Britain, it has found a charming home in Scandinavia, where natural flavors and minimalist elegance shape the tea experience. Nordqvist, a Finnish tea house rooted in Nordic heritage, offers a collection of teas perfectly suited for this occasion. From robust black teas to inventive flavored blends, their range elevates the classic afternoon tea into something uniquely Scandinavian.

Choosing the best tea for an afternoon spread can be daunting, especially with so many delightful options. That's why we've curated a roundup of Nordqvist's standout teas—by flavor, strength, and pairing potential. Whether you're hosting a tea party or simply enjoying a quiet cuppa with scones, these selections promise to make every sip memorable. Read on for our tasting notes and recommendations.

The Classic Black Tea – The Heart of Afternoon Tea

No afternoon tea is complete without a reliable, full-bodied black tea. Nordqvist's English Breakfast 800 g is a masterful blend of Assam and Ceylon leaves, delivering a malty, brisk flavor that stands up beautifully to milk. With its deep amber color and satisfying strength, it's the ideal partner for buttery scones, clotted cream, and finger sandwiches. English Breakfast also keeps its character even after cooling slightly, so it remains enjoyable throughout a long tea party.

For those who prefer a more nuanced cup, Blend No 1 - Black tea 800 g offers a slightly softer profile with floral undertones. This classic Nordic favorite balances briskness with a gentle finish, making it a versatile companion for both sweet pastries and savory quiches. Both teas are available in generous 800 g loose-leaf packs, perfect for frequent entertaining or daily indulgence. They represent the gold standard for afternoon tea—proven, reliable, and crowd-pleasing.

• For the most authentic experience, serve these black teas with a splash of warm milk and a sugar cube. The malty notes of English Breakfast shine especially well with clotted cream and jam.

Fruity and Spiced Flavors for a Nordic Twist

If you want to surprise your guests with something beyond the ordinary, Nordqvist's flavored black teas add a delightful Scandinavian twist. Plum Cinnamon combines sweet, juicy plum with the warm spice of cinnamon, creating a comforting yet sophisticated brew. The aroma fills the room with cozy notes, and the taste lingers with a gentle sweetness—no sugar needed. This tea pairs wonderfully with spiced cakes or apple tarts, making it a standout at any autumn or winter afternoon tea.

Another innovative option is Cranberry-Salted Caramel, which merges tart cranberries with a hint of salted caramel for a uniquely balanced sip. The slight saltiness cuts through sweet treats like macarons and chocolate truffles, while the cranberry adds a refreshing tang. Both teas hold up well to longer steeping without becoming bitter, thanks to high-quality black tea bases. They invite your guests to explore new flavor territories while still honoring the classic tea ceremony.

• When serving flavored teas, consider offering a small tasting card with notes on the ingredients—Plum Cinnamon's spiced plum or Cranberry-Salted Caramel's sweet-tart profile—so guests can savor each note.

A Touch of Whimsy – Moomin Teas for Afternoon Tea

Nordqvist's Moomin tea collection infuses afternoon tea with playful charm, perfect for gatherings that include children or whimsical adults. Moomin Sweet Heart 100 g is a black tea blended with strawberry and rose, delivering a floral and fruity cup that feels like springtime. Its light, sweet character pairs beautifully with delicate meringues or shortbread, and the adorable packaging makes it a conversation starter on your tea table.

For a refreshing alternative, Moomin Lemon & Mint tea NEW offers a zesty, herbaceous lift—ideal for warmer afternoons or as a palate cleanser between courses. The lemon and mint combination is bright and invigorating, yet gentle enough not to overwhelm finger foods like cucumber sandwiches or smoked salmon rolls. Both teas are available in limited-edition Moomin-themed tins, adding a dash of Nordic nostalgia to your tea set. They prove that afternoon tea can be both elegant and enjoyable for all ages.

• To pair with Moomin teas, serve light savories like mini quiches or cheese straws—they won't overpower the delicate fruit and floral notes.

Whether you prefer the timeless comfort of a classic black tea or the creative charm of a Nordic flavored blend, Nordqvist offers a tea for every afternoon tea spread. English Breakfast 800 g remains an unbeatable staple for its robust, reliable flavor, while Plum Cinnamon adds seasonal warmth. For a touch of whimsy, the Moomin collection delights both young and old. Explore these teas and more to craft your perfect tea party—each cup tells a story of Scandinavian craftsmanship and love for the ritual of tea.