Teas

Karen Pruitt
14 min readJul 26, 2024

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Pour yourself a warm cup of tea and join us as we explore a delightful selection of teas that will tantalize your taste buds. In this roundup article, we’ll be showcasing an array of teas, from the classic black tea to the refreshing green tea, catering to the diverse preferences of tea enthusiasts. Grab your favorite mug and embark on a journey of flavor and tranquility as we uncover the world of tea.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you!

Reviews

Organic India Original Tulsi Tea — 3.5 oz Canister

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Savor the delight of Organic India’s Tulsi tea, a delectable concoction blending the finest Tulsi leaves grown from sacred three varities, each with powerful restorative effects. The tea offers a well-balanced aroma with a calming and earthy taste that soothes the soul and boosts energy levels.

Its distinct flavor profile makes it a popular and healthful choice for tea lovers. With environmentally responsible packaging, the tea promises not just indulgence but also well-being for all. Organic India Tulsi tea is a remarkable addition to your daily routine offering relaxation and rejuvenation in every sip making it a perfect companion for winding down.

Harney & Sons Premium Paris Black Tea

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A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon Harney & Sons’ Black Tea Paris in my local grocery store. My curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to give it a try. Let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised by the blend!

As soon as I opened the tin, I was greeted by its inviting aroma. The sweet scent of vanilla and caramel was impossible to ignore, and it only excited me even more for the taste. The tea leaves themselves were of good quality, and I appreciated that it was loose leaf, leaving room for custom steeping times and strengths.

When I poured boiling water over the tea leaves, I was immediately greeted with what felt like a tea party in Paris. The blend was a delightful mix of flavors — the vanilla and caramel were present, and the hint of lemony Bergamot added a nice touch. As I took my first sip, I felt a warm, comforting sensation as the flavors danced across my palate.

This is now my go-to black tea blend for the day, and I highly recommend it for anyone seeking a well-balanced, flavorful cup of tea. It’s perfect for tea lovers who are looking for a blend that’s smooth and has distinct, yet not overpowering flavors. Give yourself a taste of Paris with every sip!

Good Earth Herbal & Black Tea Original: Sweet & Spicy Tea with Exciting Flavors

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Indulge in the delightful flavors of Good Earth’s Sweet & Spicy Herbal & Black Tea, a harmonious blend of premium black tea leaves and aromatic herbs. With robust black tea notes and a touch of sweetness, this tea boasts a well-balanced taste bud. The perfect choice for sweet tea lovers, this tea offers a symphony of exciting flavors, including cinnamon, orange, lemongrass, peppermint, anise seed, and ginger.

Bask in the comforting aroma and let it soothe your senses. Whether you prefer it hot or cold, this tea is sure to become a beloved favorite. It’s gluten-free, Kosher certified, and free of artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, making it a healthier and more sustainable choice.

Lipton Tea 3-Pack 8.3 oz Cartons

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I recently had the pleasure of trying Lipton Black Tea Bags in a 3-pack, 8.3 oz carton. I must say, these tea bags are a delightful addition to my daily routine. The natural smooth taste of these freshly picked tea leaves is truly refreshing, especially when enjoyed during meals.

One of the standout features of this product is the secure lock-box packaging. It’s sturdy and makes it easy to store, with the wrapped stay-fresh tea trays helping to preserve the tea’s taste and aroma. However, I did notice that they aren’t as durable as I would have liked — my trays became damaged during storage. It would be nice if the packaging were a bit more resilient.

Another positive is that the tea bags are made with 100% rainforest alliance certified tea. This allows me to feel good about supporting sustainable practices and helping the environment. But, the packaging has been changing over the years, and I miss the convenience of the individually wrapped tea bags, which made carrying them around so much easier.

Despite the minor packaging concerns, I’ve really enjoyed this product and its ability to add a touch of natural sweetness to my daily brew. So, if you’re in search of a refreshing and naturally tasting black tea, Lipton’s bags are worth giving a try — just be prepared to handle the new packaging with more care.

Stash Tea Sample Box: A Superb Variety Pack Gift for Tea Lovers

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I was thrilled to discover the Stash Tea Sampler Assortment Box, a truly perfect gift for so many occasions in my life. It’s not often that you find a tea variety pack as diverse and delicious as this one, featuring flavors like English Breakfast, Green, Moroccan Mint, Peach, and Chamomile. The elegantly designed box makes it a delight to present as a gift, while the individually wrapped foil tea bags preserve the aroma and rich flavor.

What stood out for me the most was the smoothness of the teas. The Stash Tea Sampler Assortment Box truly delivered on its promise of offering a wide range of high-quality, all-natural options. The herbal and natural teas in this collection were particularly impressive, and I found myself reaching for them more often than not.

While I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with this product, I did notice that some users might find the individual tea bags a bit small for their liking. However, this was a minor inconvenience compared to the vast array of delicious teas this assortment has to offer. Overall, I highly recommend the Stash Tea Sampler Assortment Box as a delightful and versatile gift for friends, family, or even yourself.

Celestial Seasonings Caffeine-Free Herbal Tea Sampler

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If you’re a herbal tea lover, you can’t go wrong with the Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler. This caffeine-free blend is perfect for unwinding after a long day, with an array of fruit-infused flavors that are naturally refreshing and soothing.

The box contains 18 tea bags, each one teeming with flavors that range from floral and light to fruity and robust. With no artificial colors or preservatives, you can enjoy the pure taste of these teas without any worries. The tea bags are also individually wrapped, so they’re perfect for gifting and taking on the go.

But the good news doesn’t stop there. This variety pack is also environmentally friendly, with recyclable packaging that ensures you’re not just sipping on great tea, but also contributing to a healthier planet. So whether you’re a tea enthusiast or someone who’s just looking for a healthier beverage option, the Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea Sampler is sure to delight and satisfy.

Blueberry Lavender Tea: Gluten-Free, Caffeine-Free, and Perfect for Daily Use

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Savor the delightful flavors of blueberry and lavender with this unique tea from The Republic of Tea. This gluten-free and caffeine-free blend is perfect for those seeking an alternative to traditional black teas.

Each tea bag contains a unique blend of organic green rooibos, hibiscus, butterfly pea flower, lemongrass, rose hips, apple, hibiscus extract, lemon balm, bamboo, blueberry, and schizandra extract. Enjoy the smooth and well-balanced flavors, while also promoting a radiant complexion. Follow the brewing instructions for optimal results, and start your day with a refreshing, aromatic cup of tea that’s both attractive and delicious.

Schisandra Berry Organic Herbal Detox Tea Bags — Traditional Medicinals

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Discover the invigorating taste and potent benefits of Traditional Medicinals’ Organic Everyday Detox with Schisandra Berry. Each tea bag contains a delightful combination of organic herbs, delivering a one-of-a-kind blend that boosts your immune system and supports liver function. The dynamic, complex formula boasts all five tastes, culminating in a unique drink that you can’t help but savor.

Choose from this reusable, kosher, and non-GMO option to create a refreshing ritual that nourishes your body and mind.

Discover Your Favorite: Wellness Tea Collection Assortment — 48 Count

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As someone who enjoys trying different types of tea, this assortment sampler was a delightful surprise. I found the packaging to be quite clear and easy to understand, with a nice touch to it. The variety of flavors in the package, including Chai Tea Breakfast, Stress Free, and Balance, allowed me to discover my favorite teas. However, I did notice that the sample count of some flavors was a bit higher than others, which made it a little unbalanced.

One feature that stood out to me was the caffeine level, which made it suitable for people like me who prefer to avoid excessive caffeine. It was convenient to have the assortment of tea types right at my fingertips. Despite a few minor packaging discrepancies, my overall experience with this tea sampler was enjoyable and a great way to explore various tea options without committing to a full-sized box of each type.

Harney & Sons 42 Count Assorted Tea Gift Pack

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The Harney & Sons Assorted Tea Bag Sampler is a delightful assortment of 42 tea bags, each featuring a different flavor. With honey crystal packets included, it’s perfect for adding sweetness to your tea or using as a flavorful gift. This versatile assortment is ideal for birthdays, hostess gifts, or co-worker celebrations, and the selection suits various tastes, from hot cinnamon spice to lemon herbal.

While the packaging might not be the most luxurious, the tea itself is organic and gluten-free, ensuring a healthier option for tea enthusiasts. And if you can’t decide on a favorite flavor, this sampler lets you explore the variety offered by Harney & Sons.

Earl Grey Loose Leaf Tea: Unique Non-Traditional Flavor

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I recently stumbled upon this unique Earl Grey tea blend from The Tea Spot, and it has become my go-to for a refreshing cup of tea. The addition of other citrus flavors, vanilla, licorice root, and mallow flowers elevates the classic bergamot taste to create a symphony of flavors in every sip. The captivating aroma fills the room, and the deep, well-balanced liquor is smooth and bright, with just a hint of creaminess.

It’s like a nostalgic orange-creamsicle transformed into a tea form. I particularly enjoy pairing it with strong cheeses or even as a companion to my favorite creme brulee. It’s a delightful departure from the traditional Earl Grey, and a must-try for those looking to explore new tea horizons.

Tropical Green Tea by Mighty Leaf: 15 Pouches, 1.32 oz Box

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Introducing the Mighty Leaf Tea Tropical Green Tea, an ultra-premium artisan whole leaf tea that’s sure to exceed your expectations. This blend comes from a dedicated partnership with She’s the First, a global non-profit organization that provides scholarships, mentorship, and empowerment to girls in developing countries. The tea is contained in hand-stitched artisanal pouches wrapped in award-winning commercially compostable packaging, ensuring only the best for both the environment and your taste buds.

CERTIFIED GLUTEN-FREE, kosher, and genetically modified organism-free, this tea is made from 100% unbleached cotton, making it 100% biodegradable and commercially disposable. Moreover, committed to fair trade, every pouch ensures that the growers receive a fair price for their product. This is more than just a cup of tea; it’s a journey of quality, sustainability, and empowerment all wrapped into one.

Experience Mighty Leaf Tea’s handcrafted whole tea leaves that touch all the senses, infused with intoxicatingly fragrant fruits, spices, and blossoms. The blend showcases a delicate balance of green tea leaves, pineapple bites, natural flavors, safflower blossom, and cornflower blossom, providing a diverse range of flavors to discover throughout your brew.

When it comes to brewing, simply place the pouches in a cup, pour water just off the boil over the pouches, let them steep for three minutes and then savor and enjoy. For a tropical iced tea, check the website for a detailed guide on how to brew this delightful tea that you can enjoy chilled, making it a perfect partner for a hot summer day.

Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to choosing the perfect tea, there are numerous factors to consider. Whether you’re a fan of herbal blends or prefer the bold flavors of black tea, this buyer’s guide will help you navigate the world of tea and make informed decisions on your next purchase.

Important Features

To ensure you get the best tea experience, there are several features to consider. These include the type of tea, origin, processing method, and packaging. Let’s dive into each of these aspects in detail to help you make a well-informed choice: ⁩ ⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩⁩

Type of Tea

Tea comes in various types, each with its unique flavor profile and health benefits. The most common types include black, green, white, oolong, and herbal teas. Black tea is known for its bold flavors and high caffeine content, while green tea is popular for its earthy taste and high antioxidant levels. White tea is delicate and subtle, with a mild flavor, and oolong tea lies somewhere between black and green tea in terms of flavor and caffeine content. Finally, herbal teas are made from a combination of dried flowers, seeds, and fruits, and are usually caffeine-free. Choose the type of tea that aligns best with your taste preferences and health goals.

Origin

The origin of the tea can also influence its flavor profile and quality. Tea is primarily grown in countries such as China, India, Sri Lanka, and Japan. Each region has its unique growing conditions, which can impact the taste and quality of the tea. For example, Darjeeling tea from India is known for its musky, floral aroma, while Japanese green tea is prized for its vegetal flavors and delicate aroma. Consider the region’s climate, soil, and traditional tea-making techniques when selecting your tea.

Processing Method

The processing method used to make the tea can also affect its flavor and quality. There are several processing methods, including steaming, pan-frying, and withering. Steaming is a common method used for making green tea, which helps preserve its delicate flavors and aroma. Pan-frying is used for making oolong tea, which gives it a unique roasted flavor. Withering is a process used for making black tea, which involves drying the tea leaves in the sun or under a hot air drier, giving it a bold, robust flavor. Choose a tea that has been processed in a way that aligns with your taste preferences.

FAQ

What is the difference between black, green, and white teas?

Black tea is made from fully oxidized tea leaves, and it has a strong, bold flavor. Commonly, black teas are used for blending and flavored teas, such as English Breakfast, Ceylon, and Earl Grey. Green tea is made from tea leaves that have been rapidly heated to prevent oxidation, which helps in retaining its fresh and light flavor. The most famous type of green tea is Japanese Sencha. White tea is made from the youngest leaves and buds of tea plants and has a delicate, subtle flavor. It is least processed among all tea types.

Clearly, the differences primarily lie in the processing and oxidation levels of the leaves, which in turn affects their taste and aroma. Each type has its distinct flavor profile and health benefits, so it’s a matter of personal preference and specific benefits that a person might be looking for when choosing between them.

What is herbal tea?

Herbal teas, also known as tisanes, are made from a variety of dried flowers, fruits, seeds, leaves, roots, and bark. Unlike those made from the Camellia sinensis tea plant, herbal teas typically do not contain any actual tea leaves. They are naturally caffeine-free and are available in a diverse range of flavors and health benefits.

For example, chamomile tea helps with relaxation and sleep, while peppermint tea aids digestion. Some popular herbal teas include chamomile, peppermint, hibiscus, and rooibos. The wide range of tastes and health benefits of herbal teas makes them a versatile and accessible choice for many tea lovers.

What is the ideal temperature for brewing tea?

The ideal temperature for brewing tea depends on the type of tea you are using. White tea should be brewed at 175°F (80°C), while green tea requires a temperature range of 160°F to 180°F (71°C to 82°C). Black tea and herbal teas generally need water between 200°F to 212°F (93°C to 100°C). It is essential to pay attention to the water temperature, as it affects the flavor, aroma, and nutritional profile of the tea, ensuring a delicious and enjoyable cup.

If you’re using an electric kettle or water heater, set the water to the appropriate temperature, and then let it cool slightly before pouring it over the tea. If you’re using a thermometer, you can check the water temperature before adding it to your tea. Proper temperature control is an essential part of brewing an excellent cup of tea, and it can significantly enhance your tea drinking experience.

How long should you steep tea?

Steep time for tea varies depending on the type of tea and your personal taste preferences. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to steep green tea, white tea, and most herbal teas for about 2 to 3 minutes. Black teas can be steeped for 3 to 5 minutes, as they can handle a longer steeping time without becoming bitter. However, this may vary depending on the tea’s quality and your taste preferences.

The aim is to extract the desired flavors and compounds from the tea leaves without over-extracting the bitter components. Experimenting with steeping time can help you find the perfect brew that suits your taste buds. You can also use a timer to ensure consistency and accuracy while steeping your tea.

Can you re-steep tea leaves?

Yes, you can re-steep tea leaves, as they still contain some flavor after the first steeping. However, the flavor and strength of the tea will lessen with each successive steeping. Typically, you can re-brew green tea leaves 1 to 2 times, while black tea leaves can be re-steeped up to 3 times. Herbal teas can also be re-steeped, but it might depend on their individual constituents. Experimenting with steeping times and the number of re-steepings can help you find the optimal brewing process for your desired taste and desired health benefits.

Remember that re-steeping will not yield the same strength and flavor as the initial steeping. Additionally, the second or third steeping will extract different compounds, possibly altering the overall taste profile. But it is still a good way to extend your tea-drinking experience and make the most of your tea leaves.

How do you choose good quality tea?

Finding good quality tea involves considering several factors such as flavor, aroma, appearance, and taste. Look for tea leaves that are vibrant in color and have a fresh, pleasant fragrance. A well-steeped tea should have a rich, complex flavor and leave a smooth aftertaste. Avoid teas with a bitter or astringent taste, as that indicates poor quality or over-processing.

Consider the origin and type of tea, as high-quality teas often come from specific regions with ideal climate and soil conditions. Pay attention to the certification (such as organic or fair trade) and the company’s reputation for quality. Additionally, read reviews and seek recommendations from tea experts or enthusiastic users to guide your selection. Remember to always store your tea in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and quality.

As an Amazon Affiliate™ I receive compensation from qualified purchases at no cost to you!

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