In a frantic and hurried world, Victoria offers a respite from the chaos of everyday life. The pages are dedicated to living beautifully when entertaining, cooking, and decorating and even in artistic pursuits - and now you can enjoy every single page on your tablet! With a distinct personality all its own, Victoria personifies feminity, passion, and an enterprising spirit. Each issue features decorating and entertaining ideas, recipes, travel stories, essays from inspiring women, and much more.
Victoria
Dear Friends
ELEGANT ESSENTIALS • In this primer, we offer advice on selecting and steeping the ideal blend of loose tea, setting the scene for a memorable gathering, and curating a collection of teatime accoutrements that add beauty to the occasion.
Tea Glossary: FINDING YOUR FAVORITE • Centuries ago, an accidental discovery revealed that dried leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant, combined with heated water, resulted in a delicious and healthy beverage. The revelation led to one of today’s most charming customs—afternoon tea.
The Perfect Pot of TEA • Earl Grey. Darjeeling. English Breakfast. These familiar names have graced many a china teapot. And, as any tea lover knows, when it comes to enjoying these time-honored favorites, a few basic brewing techniques will ensure delicious results.
Tasteful TABLESCAPES • Arranging a beautiful tableau extends a warm welcome—greeting guests with a visual feast that blends a graceful mix of crisp linens, treasured heirlooms, and seasonal elements to make gathering for tea a joy.
Tools of the TRAY • Artfully fashioned silver serving pieces have a utilitarian purpose, but these exquisite implements also add beauty to the teatime experience. Vintage curiosities capture our imaginations—their clever designs and ornate renderings inspiring speculation as to their origins.
TAKING TEA • Pausing from sightseeing to sip a cup of tea offers a moment to soak in the beauty of traveling abroad. In these pages, discover a few of our favorite spots for tea in England, Ireland, and Scotland.
A Manor of Hospitality • Like a significant moment in history, The Milestone Hotel has left its mark on London through elegant surrounds and passionate service.
Stories in STONES & MIST • Amid the atmospheric moors and verdant knolls of the Emerald Isle, venerable edifices rise through the hazy dawn like ancient apparitions. When the longing for travel emerges, these steadfast keepers of history and lore stand ready to welcome visitors as stalwart reminders of Ireland’s enduring and enchanting narrative.
A Lasting REFRAIN • In 1924, Gleneagles celebrated its grand opening with a history-making ball featuring a musical performance broadcast across Great Britain. More than one hundred years later, elegant notes still echo through the storied halls.
A Sparkling GEM • No trip to London is complete without a shopping expedition to Fortnum & Mason, and the Piccadilly location affords a gleaming opportunity to pause for refreshement in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.
MEMORABLE MENUS • From signature dishes developed in the Victoria test kitchens to seasonal tea parties and other themed gatherings, we present ideas, inspiration, and recipes for creating unforgettable memories over afternoon tea.
BREWING Perfect TEA, CUP AFTER CUP • Use these basic tips for all teas. For the most flavorful drink, follow the specific water temperature guide and steep time for the type of leaf you are preparing.
Tea PAIRINGS • Celebrate the ritual of teatime with a selection of delectable recipes developed in the Victoria test kitchens to complement, or even incorporate, favorite blends. From delicate whites, earthy greens, and fragrant florals to the more robust blacks or smoky oolongs, every...