The History of Kusmi Tea: A Russian-French Tea Tradition That Spans Centuries

Few tea brands carry a story as rich and dramatic as Kusmi Tea. Born in the heart of the Russian Empire, forced into exile by revolution, and reborn in the creative crucible of Paris, Kusmi’s history is a tapestry of tradition, resilience, and innovation. Today, it is celebrated worldwide as a French tea brand with deep Slavic roots—a unique duality that sets it apart in the world of premium teas.

Understanding the kusmi tea history is more than a lesson in commerce; it is a window into how cultural heritage can survive upheaval and thrive in a new land. From the samovars of St. Petersburg to the chic tea salons of modern Paris, Kusmi has carried its tea heritage across borders and generations. In this article, we trace the brand’s evolution, its signature blends, and the spirit that makes it a timeless favorite.

The Russian Beginnings: A Tea House in St. Petersburg

The story begins in 1867, when Pavel Michailovich Kousmichoff, a visionary tea merchant, opened a small tea shop in St. Petersburg, then the glittering capital of the Russian Empire. Russia had long been a nation of tea drinkers—importing tea via the famous camel caravans from China—but Kousmichoff saw an opportunity to offer refined, high-quality blends to the aristocracy and the burgeoning middle class. His shop quickly gained a reputation for exquisite taste and impeccable sourcing.

By the turn of the century, the Kousmichoff brand had become a supplier to the Imperial Court of Tsar Nicholas II. The company’s teas were served in the grand palaces and enjoyed by nobles across the empire. This royal patronage cemented its status and created the foundation of its tea heritage. The original Russian blends were bold, often smoky or floral, designed to complement the rich foods and cold climate. This era also saw the creation of some of the earliest signature recipes that still influence Kusmi today.

• Founded in 1867 by Pavel Michailovich Kousmichoff in St. Petersburg
• Became official supplier to the Imperial Court of Tsar Nicholas II
• Specialized in blends for the Russian palate, often with floral and smoky notes

Exile and Rebirth in Paris

The Russian Revolution of 1917 shattered the empire and upended the lives of its elite. The Kousmichoff family, like many others, fled the Bolsheviks. With little more than their recipes and knowledge, they escaped to France and settled in Paris. There, they reopened the business in 1920, adapting the name to the more French-friendly "Kusmi Tea." This unlikely rebirth in a new country became the defining chapter of the brand’s story.

In Paris, Kusmi had to reinvent itself for a Western European audience while honoring its Russian soul. The family began blending traditional Russian teas with French elegance—creating lighter, more aromatic blends that appealed to Parisian tastes. The shop on the Rue de Rennes became a meeting place for Russian émigrés and French gourmands alike. By the mid-20th century, Kusmi had established itself as a uniquely Franco-Russian tea brand, blending the best of both worlds.

• Fled the Russian Revolution in 1917 and resettled in Paris
• Reopened the tea business in 1920 with the name Kusmi Tea
• Adapted Russian recipes for French palates, creating new signature blends

Modern Revival and Global Expansion

After decades of family ownership, Kusmi Tea faced decline in the 1990s. But in 2003, the brand was acquired by a group of enthusiasts who re-energized it with modern marketing, sleek packaging, and a focus on organic and high-quality teas. The revival brought Kusmi into the 21st century, with flagship stores in Paris, New York, and Tokyo, and a robust online presence. Today, Kusmi offers hundreds of blends, from classic black teas to innovative herbal infusions.

The brand’s commitment to quality and tradition remains unwavering. Many of the original recipes from the Russian era are still produced, such as the robust English Breakfast, a perfectly balanced black tea that pays homage to early morning rituals. Meanwhile, newer creations like matcha-221226">matcha-premium-221231">Matcha premium reflect Kusmi's ability to innovate while staying true to its tea heritage. The company also focuses on sustainable sourcing and beautiful, gift-worthy packaging that appeals to modern tea lovers.

• Acquired in 2003 and revitalized with organic focus and modern design
• Global presence with stores in major cities and a strong e-commerce platform
• Blends like English Breakfast and Matcha premium honor both past and present

Signature Blends: A Taste of History in Every Cup

What makes Kusmi Tea truly special is how each blend tells a story. The Russian origins are most vividly captured in teas like Thé du matin N°24, a robust morning tea that echoes the strong brews enjoyed in St. Petersburg. The French influence is seen in lighter, aromatic blends such as White Berries, which combines white tea with berry notes for a refreshing, contemporary taste. These contrasts reflect the brand’s dual heritage.

Beyond flavor, Kusmi has also introduced a range of accessories and sets that enhance the tea experience. The Carafe verre à thé glacé 1,10L is a perfect example—a elegant glass carafe designed for iced tea, merging French design with practical use. Gift sets like Coffret Les Thés Noirs bio avec infuseur à thé offer a complete tasting journey, allowing newcomers to explore the black tea traditions that started it all. Each product is a piece of the brand’s continuing narrative.

• Thé du matin N°24: a direct descendant of the original Russian morning blend
• White Berries: a modern French-inspired white tea with fruity notes
• Accessories like the Carafe verre à thé glacé and gift sets make the tea experience complete

Kusmi Tea is more than a beverage; it is a living bridge between two cultures, a story of survival and adaptation, and a testament to the power of tradition. Whether you are drawn to its Russian depth or French finesse, each cup offers a taste of history. Explore the full range of classic and modern blends to discover your own favorite chapter in this extraordinary legacy.