FAQ

About the blend

What is masala chai?
Masala chai is a spiced tea originating in India, made from whole and ground spices brewed slowly with milk and water. Unlike the powder or syrup versions you find in most cafes, Golden Thread is made from twelve individual spices — each roasted by hand before blending. The result is something more complex, more aromatic, and far more satisfying.

What spices are in Golden Thread Chai?
Juniper berries, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, fennel seeds, ginger, rose petals, pepper berry, vanilla, nutmeg, and black tea. Each one is roasted individually before blending.

Does it contain caffeine?
Yes — Golden Thread contains black tea, so it does have caffeine. It's generally considered a gentler caffeine experience than coffee, making it a popular morning ritual for people stepping back from espresso.

Is it suitable for vegans?
The blend itself is completely plant-based. What you add to it — milk, sweetener — is entirely your choice.

Is it gluten free?
Yes. There is no gluten in our blend.

Brewing

How do I brew Golden Thread Chai?
We brew on the stovetop. Fill your chai pot with water — roughly one third to one half of your final volume. Bring to the boil, lower the heat, and add one heaped tablespoon of Golden Thread. Let it sit for a moment, then add your milk of choice. Keep the heat medium to low, stir slowly, and brew for seven minutes. Strain into your favourite cup. Sweeten to taste — we like honey.

How much chai do I use per cup?
We suggest one heaped tablespoon per serve as a starting point. Adjust up or down to suit your taste — everyone brews differently.

How many cups does each bag make?
The 150g makes approximately 15–20 cups and the 500g makes approximately 55–65 cups, depending on how strong you like it.

What milk works best?
Any milk works beautifully. We brew with Bonsoy, but dairy, oat, almond, and coconut all make a great cup. Each brings something slightly different — experiment and find yours.

Can I cold brew it?
We're working on a cold brew guide — watch this space.

The Strainer

What is the Fine Mesh Chai Strainer made from?
Our strainer features a tightly woven stainless steel mesh and a solid walnut handle. It's built for daily use and designed to sit over your cup while you pour — catching every last spice for a clean, clear brew.

What size cup does it fit?
The strainer is designed to sit comfortably over a standard sized cup or mug. If you brew into a larger vessel like a jug or pot, simply hold it over the opening while you pour.

How do I care for it?
Hand wash only and dry immediately after use — this protects the walnut handle and keeps the mesh in good condition. Avoid soaking or putting it in the dishwasher.

Does it work with Golden Thread Chai?
Yes — it's designed specifically for loose spice blends like ours. The fine mesh catches even the smallest particles from the grind, leaving nothing in the cup but clean, spiced chai.

Can I buy it as part of a bundle?
Yes — the strainer is available as part of our Complete Ritual Bundle alongside our signature chai blend and enamel pot.

Orders & Shipping

Where do you ship to?
We ship Australia-wide and internationally from Newcastle, NSW.

How long does delivery take?
Australian orders are dispatched within 2–3 business days and typically arrive within 3–7 business days depending on your location. International delivery time frames vary by destination.

Do you offer free shipping?
Yes — free shipping on all Australian orders over $200. International orders are calculated at checkout.

Can I track my order?
Yes — you'll receive a tracking number once your order is dispatched.

Packaging

Is your packaging really compostable?
Yes — our packaging is 100% certified home compostable. It can go straight into your home compost or green waste bin. No plastic, no landfill.

General

I have a question that isn't answered here.
Get in touch at goldenthreadchai@gmail.com and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.