Today I finally got around to checking out Duck and Decanter which is mainly a deli. I was actually very surprised to learn they carried loose leaf tea; and apparently coffee beans and a crazy ton of wine/beer. Pretty much a Phoenix landmark since it opened in 1972, they were definitely a pioneer in the coffe/tea bar operations. Today they carry about 50 loose leaf teas and will custom brew anything for about $3.00 (sorry couldn't find my receipt).
They're kind of a jack of all trades store. You're greeted with a beautiful patio area with lots of seating to enjoy this amazing (80 degree) weather. There are two entrances, the left leads to their wine bar, and the right leads to the main shop/deli portion. They had quite a few brewed tea options, 5 I believe, for deli patrons getting iced tea with their meals. None of those options really grabbed me but I did notice they carry a Prickly Pear black.
Is prickly pear a common flavoring outside the desert? I love it! It makes great margaritas and martinis. Intrigued, I got that iced. They also had an oolong I'd never heard of called Sechung. The label said that it was a partially fermented tea so I couldn't pass it up. Most of their offerings were flavored but they did have a pu'er and a lapsang and even a Darjeeling so it's a great little shop for the budding tea enthusiast.
Prickly Pear Black
Brewed: At the shop in a gravity infuser
Steep Time: Was real short, don't think the barrista had a timer, just kind of winged it.
Taste: Very smooth. Not a very bold black as the prickly pear was definitely the most prominent charicteristic which is kind of a mellow tartness.
A refreshing tea, great for a "spring" desert day!
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