A cup of Christmas comfort

By Michelle Post; courtesy photo

According to Ancestry.com, 77% of my ethnicity is located in England, Wales and Northwestern Europe. Perhaps this is one of the reasons I love tea.

My mother, Annie, was a proud Newfoundlander who was born and raised on tea. In my book, Heaven Has Tea Parties, I share my story of faith and my English mother who loved a cup of tea. I had the privilege of sharing many cups of tea and the opportunity to attend high teas with my mom. Wherever I live, I look for tea rooms that serve an enjoyable high tea experience.

My definition of a high tea consists of fancy tablecloths, linen napkins, china teacups and a three-tiered plate filled with finger sandwiches, scones and decadent desserts. Most importantly for me, a high tea must have raspberry jam, lemon curd and clotted cream for the scone. I prefer a smooth black tea with cream and sugar. There are many varying traditions associated with high tea, but I learned mine from my mom.

We Coloradans are blessed to have an abundance of tea room options where we can experience a magnificent high tea.

The Brown Palace in Denver (www.brownpalace.com) a favorite, especially at Christmas time. The afternoon tea takes place in the lobby. You are surrounded by the beautiful Christmas decorations while hypnotic piano music plays in the background. The table is brilliantly set with china teacups, plates and ornate cream and sugar sets.

The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse in Boulder (www.boulderteahouse.com) is an authentic teahouse from Dushanbe, Tajikistan that was given to its sister city, Boulder. The teahouse is nestled in the foothills and sits alongside Boulder Creek. Words are not enough to describe the amazing experience.

Glen Eyrie Castle in Colorado Springs (www.gleneyrie.org) is the home of General William Jackson Palmer and his family. The castle is currently serving its Yule Tea to celebrate the Christmas season. There is something magical about a high tea in a music room with breathtaking views of the castle grounds and red rocks of the canyon.

And finally, Cherokee Ranch & Castle in Sedalia (www.cherokeeranch.org) is a local favorite. The castle is a rare example of a 15th century architectural masterpiece, housing a collection of world-class art, antiques and rare books – all serving as the perfect backdrop for a unique tea experience. You’ll be treated like royalty when you attend tea at Cherokee Ranch & Castle, which includes a seasonal menu, complete with scones, finger sandwiches and pastries.

No matter where you live in Colorado, you are sure to find a tea room near you that captures the authentic high tea experience. Just remember, make sure they are serving scones with raspberry jam, lemon curd and clotted cream – the requirements of a high tea, according to Annie.

To find your next high tea visit www.destinationtea.com/colorado.