Russian Blend Whole Leaf Tea was introduced to Russia in the early seventeenth century by China. Prior to its introduction, the drink of choice was sbiten, a brew of hot water, honey and herbs. Today, tea remains the most popular non-alcoholic drink. Our blend refers to an old Russian formula. Whole black leaf, light- to medium-bodied, with an amber liquor and a highly aromatic, slight smoky character on the palate.