Yalda, a premium collection of ready-to-drink Iranian teas, has launched in Harrods, with all three of its flavours already recognised with two stars at the Great Taste Awards.
Inspired by Yalda Night, the Iranian tradition of gathering with loved ones on the longest night of the year, the range blends black tea with Iranian flavours, including Cinnamon Darjeeling, Saffron and Peach Assam, and Jasmine and Chamomile.
The Great Taste judges said the Jasmine and Chamomile flavour was: “Elegant on the nose with a top note of sweet jasmine that moves directly onto the palate with delight. A crystal clear drink that is so refreshing; the judges thought it tasted just as good as it looked".
Designed for wellness-focused consumers, iced tea fans, café-goers and those looking for sophisticated non-alcoholic drinks options, the product is made with tea leaves and contains no added sugar or preservatives.
The Brighton-based business was founded in 2024 by father and son Siamak and Babak Abbaszadeh, aiming to provide a culturally rich, premium tea experience and bring a healthier ready-to-drink alternative to the market. The founders have previous experience working in manufacturing businesses and the FMCG space. Also part of the team is Head of Brand & Marketing, Aylar Farrokhzad, who brings extensive experience in launching and designing brands.
Babak Abbaszadeh said: “We’re a British-Iranian family team. My father was born in Iran, and both I and our head of brand marketing, who is also my wife, are of Persian heritage.
“Growing up in this culture, tea and hospitality were central to family life, and those traditions continue to shape how we live and work. Our Persian roots are deeply tied to community, celebration, and the art of bringing people together.
“Tea isn’t just a drink - it’s a way to connect, slow down, and enjoy moments with others. That philosophy guides every part of Yalda. Persian culture is such a vibrant and exciting culture, that not enough people know about. Persian food and drink provide the access to the culture, in the flavours and also the rituals, and what could be more symbolic of Persian culture and drink than tea.”
Aylar Farrokhzad said: “We aim for Yalda to become the go-to premium tea brand in the UK, expanding into cafés, retailers, and events while continuing to champion Persian hospitality and the joy of connection through shared moments.
“The Persian hospitality community in the UK is vibrant, creative, and welcoming. Being part of that community inspires us every day, and we hope Yalda can showcase the warmth and generosity of Persian traditions to a wider audience, blending it with a modern, British approach.”
