One for the Sisterhood

Column in “The Skinny”, Central Highlands.

No More Jiggling or Dangling.

“Feminism Hits the Tea Market”

Tea, it must be said, can have a problematic image. On one side, blends such as Earl Grey and English breakfast suggest worthy, dull gentility. On the other, forms such as chamomile and chai evoke uncomfortable thoughts of meditating types clad in natural fibres and patchouli oil. And then there’s that awful Nigella Lawson woman…

Thank heavens, then, that Daylesford Artist Jodie Fergusson-Batte has launched a business that aims to give tea, at last, a bit of serious cred and coolness. A cup of Bitch is Back, anyone?

Ms Fergusson-Batte’s business is called She Tea, which provides a fair indication of the intended market. Insde canisters decorated with her own artwork, she and business partner Vanessa have based tea blends geared to assist with the management of, and we quote, “PMS or menopause, career challenges or heartbreak, hangovers or quests for purity.”

This may explain the names given to the blends on sale: Booze Hound, Virginal Quest, Bitch is Back, Scorned, Warrior and Dirty Hippie. Beats a bag of Twinings any day, we reckon.

She Teas retail at around $20 per canister. They are available from selected shops (try the trendy ones in Vincent St, Daylesford) or online at www.she-tea.com.au.