Cordyceps and Turmeric Honey: Hidden in Bhutan’s far west, Haa (pronounced “hah”) is one of the country’s smallest and most secretive districts. Only opened to outsiders in 2002, this stunningly preserved valley sits close to the border with Tibet. It is from this secluded valley that our honey is sourced, harvested by Monks. The bees feed on high-altitude flowers that bloom briefly each year, drenched in cold sun and mountain mist. Because the air is so pure and the soil so mineral-rich, the honey develops a crystalline sweetness with notes of wild rose, linden, and the faint resin of blue pine—light, floral, and almost electric on the tongue. The same team then infuses the honey with Cordyceps, a medicinal superfood sought for centuries for its incredible vitality. The collection of Cordyceps is a physically demanding task. Harvesters must trek for days to reach remote alpine pastures, at elevations between 3,000 and 5,000 meters. The air is thin, the weather is unpredictable, and the task of spotting the tiny fungus is painstaking. To ensure the long-term health of the Cordyceps population, the Bhutanese government strictly regulates the harvest. Only a limited, permitted number of people are allowed to participate, and only hand-picking is permitted to minimize environmental damage. We finish the blend by adding Bhutanese Black Turmeric and a touch of bright Ginger. The result is a savory, spiced honey with an unexpected and perfectly balanced taste. Available in our Winter Subscription box, with a collection of 9 other items harvested from Bhutan. X Richard