Austrian tea culture is often overshadowed by the country’s famous coffee houses. During a recent trip to Salzburg and Vienna, I discovered a quieter side of this tradition through the Sacher Blend, a tea served at Café Sacher and crafted by Demmers Teehaus.
Austrian Tea Culture Beyond Coffee
Austria is well known for its traditional coffee houses. Locals spend time there reading newspapers, meeting friends, or simply enjoying a slice of cake. Coffee is central to this culture, and I usually ordered it without thinking twice.
One day, however, while sitting at Café Sacher in Salzburg, a friend ordered tea instead. It caught my attention. I had not given much thought to tea in Austria, assuming most people preferred coffee, especially given how seriously it is taken.
Discovering the Sacher Blend
On my way back to the United States, I picked up a box of the Sacher Tea Original Blend at the airport. I was curious to try it at home.
I usually prefer single-origin teas and tend to avoid blends. However, I am a fan of bergamot, so I enjoyed this one right away. It felt familiar, yet distinct from what I was used to.
The Story Behind the Blend
After returning, I began researching Austrian tea culture, the Sacher Hotel, and the origins of this blend. In Europe, even the most ordinary things often connect to history. A dish like Kaiserschmarrn, for example, has a story tied to imperial traditions.
When something connects to a personal experience, I tend to explore it further. This was no exception.
During my research, I came across Demmers Teehaus and reached out to them. Nadja from their team kindly replied and shared background on the Sacher Blend:
“This tea blend was originally created by Mrs. Mizzi Thum for Anna Sacher. Since Andrew Demmer founded his teahouse in Vienna in 1981, he has been blending this tea for the Hotel Sacher. Both houses are traditional Viennese companies that continue to work together in close collaboration.
The Sacher Blend is a mixture of Darjeeling black tea, bergamot oil, and white cornflower blossoms. The Darjeeling must be from the second flush, which creates a full-bodied and aromatic cup that pairs perfectly with the Sacher cake.”
Tasting the Sacher Blend
I also received a fresh sample from Demmers Teehaus. It tasted noticeably brighter than the one I had purchased at the airport. The bergamot and Darjeeling worked well together, creating a balanced and aromatic cup.
The white cornflower blossoms added a subtle visual and flavor element without overpowering the blend. It remained elegant and easy to drink.
Demmers Teehaus in Vienna
Demmers Teehaus has its flagship store in Vienna, located in Molker Bastei. The brand has expanded internationally, with locations in Hungary, Poland, Slovakia, Romania, Japan, and Finland.
They continue to represent a more traditional side of European tea culture, one that often exists alongside the better-known coffee traditions.
Final Thoughts on Austrian Tea Culture
Austrian tea culture may not be as visible as its coffee houses, but it is present in its own refined way. The Sacher Blend reflects this balance between tradition and taste.
For those who enjoy bergamot and classic European blends, it offers a unique connection between tea and Viennese café culture.
Disclaimer
I received free samples from Demmers Teehaus after I had already planned to write about the Sacher Blend. I appreciate their responsiveness and support of the tea community.
