Say Cheers with a Refreshing Glass of Iced Tea, Courtesy of The Winchester Hotel

From the bright sunshine of Beach Road and the Sea Point Promenade, the lobby of The Winchester Hotel feels cool and calm. A smartly dressed porter tips his hat and ushers you into the hotel foyer adorned with monochrome patterned tiles and whimsical chandeliers. Here guests can help themselves to a glass of refreshing iced tea made from South African rooibos tea, fresh lemons and mint leaves. This is the perfect thirst quencher with which to start off ones stay at this iconic Cape Town hotel and the hotel has finally revealed the recipe for those that would like to make this restoring drink at home.

A Little Taste of Local Flavour in Every Sip

South African iced tea is traditionally made with rooibos tea, which is indigenous to the Western Cape. It continues to be a locally grown, proudly South African commodity that is enjoyed the world over and makes a fine cup of iced tea with its caffeine-free quality and naturally sweet, earthy taste.

It is believed that the Khoisan were the first to discover rooibos, and it was documented by a European botanist Carl Thunberg in 1772. Later, the Ginsbergs, a Russian immigrant family in Cederberg, came up with a production method and founded the oldest brand of rooibos tea.

Today, it is loved for its natural taste and distinct aroma, and it remains a South African favourite in almost every kitchen.

The Winchester Hotel’s Iced Tea Recipe

Embracing this local flavour, the Winchester Hotel has its very own secret recipe for the perfect iced tea, guaranteed to help you cool down on a hot day. If you’re craving a little zesty sweetness in your day, here is the recipe, straight from our experts to you to help spread some of that flavoursome Winchester magic:

Ingredients:

• 2.5 litres of boiling water
• 3 bags of South African rooibos tea
• ½ cup of sugar[1] 
• 1 x fresh lemon sliced into pieces
• A handful of fresh mint leaves

Method:

Brew the tea bags in the boiling water. Stir the sugar into boiling tea mixture. Allow to cool before adding fresh lemon slices and mint leaves. Chill and add ice cubes to your liking. Raise a glass and enjoy!

If you’d prefer the real thing, our doors are always open at the Winchester Hotel. Come visit us on the Seapoint Promenade or book a stay here to experience a world-class hospitality icon and luxury at its finest.