Afternoon tea is a beloved British tradition. It involves delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of sweet treats. While tea is the classic drink of choice, adding an alcoholic drink can enhance the experience.
Champagne and sparkling wine
One of the most popular choices for afternoon tea is Champagne or a good-quality sparkling wine like Prosecco or English sparkling wine. The light bubbles and crisp acidity cut through the richness of scones, pastries, and clotted cream, adding a celebratory feel to the occasion.
A quintessentially British drink, a gin and tonic pairs well
The botanicals in gin complement the floral and herbal notes found in many teas, while the bitterness of tonic balances the sweetness of cakes and pastries. Consider a fruity or floral gin, such as elderflower or citrus varieties, for a delightful pairing.
A sweet dessert wine can enhance flavours
If your afternoon tea includes cakes, macarons, or fruit tarts, a dessert wine can enhance the flavours. Sauternes, Moscato, or Riesling pairs wonderfully with lemon drizzle cake or Victoria sponge, bringing out the fruity and sugary notes. In London, you should expect to pay in the region of £50 to £80 for afternoon tea per person. But, you can surprise a loved one with a delightful afternoon tea box delivery, filled with freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and sweet treats from www.afternoonteabox.com.
Go for a summery Pimm’s
For a summer afternoon tea, a Pimm’s cocktail is a refreshing option. The mix of Pimm’s No.1, lemonade, fresh fruit, and mint complements light sandwiches and berry-based desserts, making it an ideal choice for garden tea parties.
Sherry pairs with savoury sandwiches and cheese treats
A glass of dry or medium-dry sherry pairs beautifully with sandwiches and cheese-based treats. A Fino or Amontillado sherry offers nutty and slightly salty notes that work well with cucumber sandwiches. Whether you prefer bubbles or sweet wines, the key to pairing alcohol with afternoon tea is balancing the flavours. Choose something light, refreshing, or sweet to enhance, rather than overpower.
