With its gentle fruity notes and low astringency, Dutch Afternoon Tea is perfect for those who like their brew hot and straight. Of course, a touch of sweetness never goes astray, so sweet-tooths can transform this tea into a delightfully decadent treat (which also blends beautifully with milk).

In your finest china so your guests can feel like Dutch royalty. Of course, your favourite teacups will also work a treat! In winter, keep your teapot warm with a knitted tea cosy and use a mug you can wrap your mitts around.

Although its soft, sweet fruity notes are a treat to enjoy on their own, Dutch Afternoon Tea is a marvelous match for your favourite bickie. For a traditional treat, try a Dutch stroopwafle (caramel cookie waffles that are softened by placing them over your steaming teacup), gevulde koek (butter cookies with marzipan-like almond filling), speculaas (a spiced crunchy biscuit), or roze koek (flat cookies covered in pink fondant icing). Chocolate lovers will be delighted to know that the Dutch think chocolate is the perfect partner for tea.

All times are good times for tea in the Netherlands. However, Dutch Afternoon tea is true to its name, offering a gentle recharge on lacklustre afternoons when you could use a lift. Evenings are best saved for souls who can handle a caffeine kick after dark.