Frequently Asked Questions

Tea Steeping & Preparation

How do I brew loose leaf tea?

Brewing loose leaf tea is simple and rewarding. Use approximately 4 grams of tea (about 1-2 teaspoons) per 8 oz of fresh, filtered water. Heat water to the appropriate temperature for your tea type: 175°F for white and green teas, 195-200°F for oolong and black teas. Steep for 3-5 minutes depending on the tea variety. Use a strainer, infuser, or teapot that allows the leaves to fully expand. Most premium loose leaf teas can be re-steeped 2-3 times, with each infusion revealing different flavor notes. For detailed brewing instructions, check the product page for each specific tea.

What temperature should I use for different types of tea?

Water temperature significantly impacts flavor extraction. White teas like our Bai Mudan and Simply Gorgeous blend require 175°F to preserve delicate floral notes. Green teas including Japanese Sencha and Gross National Happiness also brew best at 175°F to avoid bitterness. Oolong teas such as Bai Ho Oriental Beauty and Golden Time of Day perform beautifully at 195-200°F, allowing their complex flavor profiles to develop. Black teas like Gloria, Audre, Toni & Zora's Tea Party and Golden Threads of Nepal require full boiling water at 200-212°F for optimal extraction. Using a temperature-controlled kettle ensures consistent results.

How many times can I re-steep my tea?

Premium loose leaf teas offer multiple infusions, each revealing different characteristics. Oolong teas excel at re-steeping—our Taiwanese Bai Ho and Lạc Hồng Vietnamese oolong can be steeped 4-6 times, with many tea enthusiasts preferring the second or third infusion. White and green teas typically yield 2-3 excellent infusions. Black teas generally provide 2-3 good steeps. For subsequent infusions, increase steeping time by 30-60 seconds. The gongfu brewing method, traditional in Chinese tea culture, uses more tea leaves with shorter steeping times and can produce 6-8 infusions from high-quality oolongs.

What is the difference between gongfu and Western brewing methods?

Gongfu brewing is a traditional Chinese method that uses a higher tea-to-water ratio (often 5-7 grams per 100ml) with very short steeping times (15-30 seconds), allowing for multiple quick infusions. This method is ideal for exploring the evolving flavor profile of premium oolongs like our Imperial Ruby Red Robe. Western brewing uses less tea (4 grams per 240ml) with longer steeping times (3-5 minutes), typically producing 1-2 infusions. Western brewing is more convenient for daily enjoyment, while gongfu brewing is a meditative practice that reveals the full complexity of exceptional teas. Both methods are valid—choose based on your time, intention, and the tea you're brewing.

How should I store loose leaf tea to maintain freshness?

Proper storage preserves tea's flavor, aroma, and health benefits. Store loose leaf tea in an airtight container away from light, heat, moisture, and strong odors. Our eco-friendly black canisters with tight-sealing lids are designed for optimal storage. Keep tea in a cool, dark cupboard—never in the refrigerator, as condensation can damage leaves. Most teas maintain peak freshness for 6-12 months when properly stored, though aged teas like Pu'erh actually improve over time. Green and white teas are most delicate and should be consumed within 6 months, while oolongs and black teas can last up to a year. Always use a clean, dry scoop to prevent moisture contamination.

Understanding Tea Types & Processing

What is the difference between white, green, oolong, and black tea?

All true tea comes from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, but processing methods create distinct categories. White tea is the least processed—leaves are simply withered and dried, preserving delicate flavors and high antioxidant content. Our Bai Mudan and Whispers of Yen exemplify this purity. Green tea is heated (steamed in Japan, pan-fired in China) to prevent oxidation, maintaining vibrant color and fresh, vegetal notes. Oolong tea is partially oxidized (15-80%), creating complex flavor profiles ranging from floral to fruity to roasted. Our Bai Ho Oriental Beauty and Twilight Talons showcase oolong's remarkable diversity. Black tea is fully oxidized, producing robust, malty flavors and deeper color, as seen in our Golden Threads of Nepal and Silk Road Black Breakfast.

What does "shade-grown" mean for Gyokuro tea?

Shade-growing is a specialized cultivation technique used for premium Japanese teas like our Japanese Gyokuro Reserve Collection. Three weeks before harvest, tea plants are covered with shade structures, blocking 80-90% of sunlight. This stress response causes the plant to produce more chlorophyll and L-theanine (an amino acid responsible for umami flavor) while reducing catechins (which cause astringency). The result is a tea with deep jade color, creamy body, sweet oceanic notes, and pronounced umami complexity. Shade-growing is labor-intensive and reserved for the finest Japanese teas, which is why Gyokuro commands premium prices and is considered one of Japan's most revered teas.

What is the difference between Gyokuro and Sencha?

Both are premium Japanese green teas, but cultivation and flavor differ significantly. Gyokuro (our Reserve Collection) is shade-grown for 3+ weeks before harvest, developing deep umami, sweet notes, and oceanic complexity. It's Japan's most prestigious tea, hand-picked by master growers and commands higher prices. Sencha is grown in full sunlight, resulting in brighter, more vegetal flavor with grassy, slightly astringent notes and refreshing character. Sencha is Japan's most popular daily tea, while Gyokuro is reserved for special occasions. Both are steamed rather than pan-fired (unlike Chinese green teas), giving them characteristic Japanese flavor profiles. If you're new to Japanese tea, start with Sencha; if you're seeking an extraordinary experience, choose Gyokuro.

What is oolong tea and why does it vary so much in flavor?

Oolong tea is partially oxidized, falling between green tea (unoxidized) and black tea (fully oxidized). Oxidation levels range from 15% to 80%, creating remarkable flavor diversity. Lightly oxidized oolongs like our Lạc Hồng Vietnamese oolong (20-30% oxidation) offer floral, fruity notes similar to green tea. Medium oxidation oolongs such as Bai Ho Oriental Beauty (60-70%) develop honeyed complexity and stone fruit character. Heavily oxidized oolongs like our roasted Taiwanese varieties approach black tea's robustness with toasted, nutty notes. Processing also varies—some are rolled into tight balls, others twisted into long leaves. Terroir (growing region), elevation, cultivar, and artisan techniques all contribute to oolong's extraordinary range, making it the most diverse tea category.

What is Pu'erh tea and how is it different from other teas?

Pu'erh is a unique fermented tea from Yunnan Province, China, made from ancient Camellia sinensis var. assamica trees. Unlike other teas that are best consumed fresh, Pu'erh improves with age, much like fine wine. Our Pu'erh Tea - Make Lasting Connections is a Shu (ripe) Pu'erh, which undergoes accelerated fermentation, producing earthy, smooth, woody notes with no astringency. Sheng (raw) Pu'erh ages naturally over decades, developing complex flavors. Pu'erh is prized for digestive benefits, often consumed after heavy meals in Chinese culture. It's traditionally compressed into cakes, bricks, or tuo cha shapes. The tea's microbial fermentation creates unique flavor compounds not found in other tea types, and well-aged Pu'erh can be extraordinarily valuable.

Sourcing, Ethics & Quality

Are your teas organic and pesticide-free?

Yes. All Symphony of Leaves teas are cultivated without chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. We work exclusively with small artisan farmers and family-owned gardens committed to sustainable, responsible growing practices. Many of our teas come from remote, high-altitude regions where chemical agriculture has never been introduced. Our Bhutanese green tea from Gross National Happiness is grown by a women's cooperative using traditional, chemical-free methods. Our Vietnamese teas from H'Mong families are harvested from wild forest tea trees that have never been treated with chemicals. While not all our teas carry formal organic certification (which can be cost-prohibitive for small producers), we verify growing practices through direct relationships and transparent supply chains.

Where do you source your teas from?

We source from 12+ countries, working directly with artisan growers and family-owned gardens. Our collection includes Japanese teas (Gyokuro, Sencha, Matcha), Chinese teas (Pu'erh, white teas, green teas from Fujian and Yunnan), Taiwanese oolongs (Bai Ho Oriental Beauty), Vietnamese teas (Whispers of Yen white tea, Lạc Hồng oolong from H'Mong families), Nepalese teas (Golden Threads, Twilight Talons, Golden Time of Day from Himalayan gardens), Bhutanese green tea (from women's cooperative), Korean teas (Jeong Ritual Malcha, Hwang Cha), Indian Darjeeling, Sri Lankan tea cigars, Kenyan black tea (Savanna Sonata), Thai oolong, and Georgian black breakfast tea. Each origin is chosen for exceptional quality, ethical practices, and unique terroir.

What does "ethically sourced" mean for your teas?

Ethical sourcing means fair compensation for farmers, sustainable environmental practices, and transparent supply chains. We work directly with small producers, ensuring they receive equitable payment rather than commodity prices. Our Bhutanese green tea supports a women's cooperative, empowering female farmers economically. Our Vietnamese teas come from H'Mong families who have cultivated wild forest tea trees for generations, preserving both cultural heritage and biodiversity. We prioritize long-term relationships over transactional purchasing, visiting gardens when possible and maintaining fully mappable supply chains. Ethical sourcing also means no child labor, safe working conditions, and respect for traditional tea-making knowledge. When you purchase Symphony of Leaves tea, you support artisan livelihoods and sustainable agriculture.

What does "artisan tea" mean?

Artisan tea is handcrafted by skilled producers using traditional methods passed down through generations. Unlike mass-produced commodity tea, artisan tea involves hand-picking (often only the finest buds and leaves), small-batch processing, and meticulous attention to detail at every stage. Our Japanese Gyokuro is hand-picked by master growers who understand exactly when leaves reach peak quality. Our Taiwanese Bai Ho oolong is crafted by families with 300+ years of tea-making expertise. Artisan production means the tea maker controls oxidation, rolling, firing, and drying based on sensory evaluation rather than automated timers. This human touch creates teas with distinctive character, complexity, and terroir expression that industrial production cannot replicate. Artisan tea is to commodity tea what craft wine is to mass-market wine.

Do you work directly with tea farmers?

Yes, we establish direct relationships with growers whenever possible, eliminating unnecessary middlemen and ensuring fair compensation. Direct trade allows us to verify growing practices, understand terroir, and build long-term partnerships. For some origins, we work with trusted importers who share our values and maintain transparent supply chains. Our Vietnamese teas come directly from H'Mong families, our Bhutanese tea from a women's cooperative we support, and our Nepalese teas from family gardens we've built relationships with over time. Direct relationships mean we can share origin stories with you, ensure quality consistency, and support sustainable livelihoods. When direct sourcing isn't possible (such as rare Korean teas), we work only with ethical importers who maintain producer relationships and fair pricing.

Gift Sets & Recommendations

Which gift set is best for beginners?

For tea newcomers, we recommend Every Cup A Destination Gift Set, which includes four distinct teas representing different processing styles: Simply Gorgeous (white tea blend), Imagination (green tea blend), Golden Time of Day (oolong blend), and Gloria, Audre, Toni & Zora's Tea Party (black tea blend). This collection provides a comprehensive introduction to tea types with approachable, beautifully blended flavors. The set includes detailed tasting notes and brewing instructions, making it perfect for exploration. Alternatively, The Tasting Atelier offers six premium single-origin teas for those ready to experience pure, unblended expressions of terroir. Both sets include everything needed to begin a tea journey.

Which gift set offers the most variety?

A Global Journey of 12 Teas in 12 Lands Gift Set is our most comprehensive collection, featuring 12 exceptional teas from 12 countries: Bhutanese green tea, Chinese Pu'erh and Ming Qian, Georgian black breakfast, Indian Darjeeling, Korean Hwang Cha, Japanese Gyokuro, Nepalese Sagamartha Gold, Sri Lankan tea cigars, Taiwanese Tieguanyin oolong, Vietnamese Champagne oolong, Kenyan Savanna Sonata, plus three jars of flavored honey and glass canisters. This set is ideal for serious tea enthusiasts, corporate gifting, or anyone wanting to explore global tea culture. It's a curated journey through the world's finest tea-growing regions, showcasing terroir diversity and artisan craftsmanship.

Can I customize a gift set?

Currently, our gift sets are thoughtfully curated collections designed to showcase complementary teas and provide complete tasting experiences. However, you can create a custom gift by purchasing individual teas and adding our honey and tea tumblers separately. For corporate gifting or large orders requiring customization, please contact us directly. We're happy to work with you on special requests, custom packaging, or branded corporate gifts. Our standard gift sets are designed by our tea experts to provide balanced, educational experiences, but we understand that personalization can make gifts even more meaningful.

Do gift sets come with brewing instructions?

Yes, all our gift sets include detailed brewing instructions for each tea, including water temperature, steeping time, tea-to-water ratio, and re-steeping guidance. Our Every Cup A Destination Gift Set includes an extensive tasting guide with origin stories, flavor profiles, food pairing suggestions, and tasting journal prompts. We believe education enhances enjoyment, so we provide the information needed to brew each tea optimally and appreciate its unique characteristics. Many of our gift sets also include information about the tea's origin, the farmers who grew it, and cultural context. You can also find detailed brewing instructions on each product page on our website.

What's the difference between The Compass Collection and The Grand Voyage?

The Compass Collection features four bold, creative blends representing different global inspirations: Creole Queen (green tea with figs and lemongrass), Cocoa Day (black tea with cloves and apples), Garden of Tangiers (North African-inspired black tea), and Sexy & Dapper (smoked black tea). This set is adventurous, flavor-forward, and perfect for those who enjoy unique, artisan blends. The Grand Voyage showcases six pure, single-origin teas from Asia: Japanese Sencha, Taiwanese oolong, Vietnamese oolong, Bhutanese green tea, Nepalese oolong, and Kenyan black tea. This set emphasizes terroir, traditional processing, and the distinct character of each origin. Choose Compass for creative blends, Grand Voyage for pure single-origin exploration.

Shipping, Orders & Policies

What countries do you ship to?

We currently ship throughout the United States. For international shipping inquiries, please contact us directly. We're continually expanding our shipping capabilities and are happy to discuss options for international customers. All domestic orders are carefully packaged to protect tea freshness during transit, using eco-friendly materials whenever possible. Our teas are packaged in airtight canisters that maintain quality during shipping and provide optimal storage once they arrive.

How long does shipping take?

Standard shipping within the United States typically takes 5-7 business days. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout for faster delivery. Orders are usually processed and shipped within 1-2 business days. You'll receive tracking information via email once your order ships. During peak seasons (holidays, special promotions), processing times may be slightly longer. We take great care in packaging to ensure your tea arrives fresh and undamaged. If you need tea by a specific date for a gift or event, please contact us and we'll do our best to accommodate your timeline.

What is your return policy?

We want you to love your tea. If you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, please contact us within 30 days of receipt. We'll work with you to make it right, whether that means a replacement, exchange, or refund. Because tea is a consumable product, we ask that you contact us before returning opened products so we can understand any quality concerns. Our goal is your complete satisfaction and we stand behind the quality of every tea we sell. For damaged or incorrect shipments, please contact us immediately with photos and we'll resolve the issue promptly.

How are teas packaged to maintain freshness?

All our teas are packaged in eco-friendly, airtight canisters with tight-sealing lids that protect against light, air, and moisture—the three enemies of tea freshness. Our black cylindrical containers are made from environmentally friendly materials and are designed for both shipping protection and long-term storage. Each canister contains 30 grams of tea (approximately 7-10 servings, depending on brewing method). Gift sets are beautifully presented in elegant packaging suitable for gifting. We never use plastic bags or materials that could compromise tea quality or contribute unnecessarily to environmental waste. Once you receive your tea, simply keep the canister sealed and stored in a cool, dark place.

Do you offer wholesale or bulk pricing?

Yes, we offer wholesale pricing for retailers, cafes, restaurants, and corporate clients. Wholesale partnerships allow us to share our ethically sourced, artisan teas with wider audiences while supporting businesses that value quality and sustainability. For wholesale inquiries, minimum order requirements, and pricing information, please contact us directly. We're particularly interested in partnering with businesses that align with our values of ethical sourcing, sustainability, and tea education. We can also discuss custom blends, private labeling, or exclusive offerings for wholesale partners.

Health & Caffeine

How much caffeine is in different types of tea?

Caffeine content varies by tea type, processing, and brewing method. White teas (Bai Mudan, Simply Gorgeous) contain 15-30mg per 8oz cup—less than green tea because they use younger buds. Green teas (Sencha, Gross National Happiness) have 25-50mg per cup. Oolong teas (Bai Ho, Golden Time of Day) contain 30-60mg, varying by oxidation level. Black teas (Golden Threads, Gloria Audre Toni & Zora's) have the highest caffeine at 40-70mg per cup. For comparison, coffee contains 95-200mg per 8oz cup. Factors affecting caffeine: water temperature (hotter extracts more), steeping time (longer extracts more), and leaf size (broken leaves release more caffeine). If you're caffeine-sensitive, choose white or lightly oxidized oolong teas.

What are the health benefits of tea?

Tea is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that support overall health. White and green teas contain high levels of catechins (especially EGCG), which have been studied for anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits. L-theanine, an amino acid abundant in shade-grown teas like Gyokuro, promotes calm focus and may reduce stress. Oolong tea has been associated with metabolic support and digestive health. Black tea contains theaflavins and thearubigins with cardiovascular benefits. Pu'erh tea is traditionally consumed for digestive support after heavy meals. All true tea (from Camellia sinensis) provides hydration, antioxidants, and a mindful ritual that supports mental wellbeing. However, tea is not medicine—enjoy it as part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Consult healthcare providers for specific health concerns.

Is tea safe during pregnancy?

Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider about tea consumption, as recommendations vary. Generally, moderate caffeine intake (less than 200mg daily) is considered acceptable during pregnancy, which allows for 2-3 cups of tea daily. White and green teas have lower caffeine and may be better choices. Some herbalists recommend avoiding high-caffeine teas in the first trimester. Our tea blends contain various botanicals—while ingredients like ginger and rose are generally considered safe, always check with your healthcare provider about specific herbs. Herbal infusions (tisanes) that don't contain Camellia sinensis may be caffeine-free alternatives, though some herbs should be avoided during pregnancy. Your health and your baby's health are paramount—always seek professional medical advice.

Tea Culture & Education

What is a tea ceremony?

Tea ceremonies are ritualized methods of preparing and serving tea, deeply rooted in cultural traditions. The Japanese tea ceremony (Chanoyu) is a choreographed ritual emphasizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, often using matcha (powdered green tea). The Chinese gongfu tea ceremony focuses on skillful brewing technique, using small teapots and multiple short infusions to appreciate a tea's evolving character—ideal for our premium oolongs. Korean tea ceremony (Darye) emphasizes simplicity and mindfulness. While formal ceremonies require training, the underlying principles—mindfulness, respect for the tea and its origins, attention to detail, and creating space for contemplation—can be incorporated into daily tea drinking. Even brewing a simple cup can become a meditative practice when approached with intention.

What is the best way to learn about tea?

The best tea education comes through tasting, comparison, and curiosity. Start with our Every Cup A Destination or Tasting Atelier gift sets, which provide structured exploration across tea types. Taste mindfully, noting aroma, flavor, mouthfeel, and how the tea evolves as it cools. Compare teas side-by-side (e.g., Sencha vs. Gyokuro) to understand how processing affects flavor. Read the origin stories and brewing notes we provide with each tea. Experiment with brewing parameters—try the same tea at different temperatures or steeping times to see how it changes. Join online tea communities, follow tea educators, and consider taking a tea sommelier course if you want formal training. Most importantly, drink tea regularly and pay attention. Your palate will develop, and you'll discover your preferences through experience.

How do I host a tea tasting party?

A tea tasting party is a wonderful way to share tea culture with friends. Choose 4-6 contrasting teas (our gift sets are perfect for this). Brew each tea properly and serve in clear cups so guests can observe color. Provide tasting notes sheets and encourage guests to record impressions. Taste from lightest to boldest: white → green → oolong → black. Offer palate cleansers (plain crackers, water) between teas. Include food pairings: our Simply Gorgeous pairs beautifully with Brie and berries, Golden Time of Day with almond biscotti, Gloria Audre Toni & Zora's with dark chocolate. Create ambiance with simple, elegant presentation. Share origin stories and brewing techniques. The goal is education, exploration, and enjoyment—not perfection.

Have more questions? Contact us through our website. We're passionate about tea and love helping customers discover their perfect cup.