Sometimes you find the best things by accident.  Finding Pax Tea, for me, was one of those lucky finds.  Listed in the MOFGA, Organic Maine!, summer 2010 flyer, I never expected to find loose-leaf tea in Maine, let alone organic and nearby.

     My favorite tea by far is Lapsang Souchong, a black tea smoked over pine needles.  This is a stronger flavor than Russian Caravan and well worth searching for.  I didn't see it listed on Pax Tea's website, so I sent them an email. Steve, the owner of Pax Tea, responded right away, informing me there was a new shipment of Lapsang Souchong due.  That's when my wife and I decided to make the trip from Chesterville to Kingfield.

      We travelled on the rainiest day of the year - pouring buckets actually.  Pax Tea was easy to find, right on Main Street, next to The Herbert.  We entered the shop and met Steve, busy at work with containers of loose-leaf tea. The shop also doubles as a processing area for tea orders.  We chatted with him while he bagged up the tea in special "bags ... made from rice paper or natural kraft with a corn based biodegradable flavor barrier."  Of course, the aroma of the shop was wonderful and we ordered additional teas - Chai, Pomegranate and Black Tea, and Ginger Sprite Tea.

     Started less than a year ago, Pax Tea offers a wide selection of teas, tisanes and tea equipment. If you are looking for an alternative to coffee and a wide range of choices, Pax Tea is a great place. Check them out soon! I know I'll be back often.