Steeping is the key to unlocking the rich flavors and aromas hidden within tea leaves, but did you know there’s more to it than just soaking leaves in hot water? From the origins of the word steep to the nuances that differentiate it from brewing, this guide explores the art of steeping, covering optimal temperatures, steeping techniques, and even traditional methods like Gongfu and Grandpa style. Whether you prefer bold black tea, delicate white tea, or a refreshing cold steep, mastering your steeping process can transform your tea experience. Ready to elevate your cup? Let’s dive in!
Tea Term Tuesday: Tea Grading
Hey there, tea lovers! Ever wondered what’s up with those mysterious tea grades like FTGFOP or BOP? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Tea grading is all about sorting leaves by size, shape, and quality. Spoiler alert: it has nothing to do with flavor but can still tell you a lot about your brew. Back in the 19th century, British merchants came up with the Orange Pekoe (OP) grading system to keep things consistent as they shipped tea worldwide. Think of it as a quality control checklist for tea leaves. Today, grades like “Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe” (GFOP) or “Broken Orange Pekoe” (BOP) help tea enthusiasts decode what’s in their cup, whether it’s a smooth, whole-leaf luxury or a bold, quick-brewing powerhouse. So next time you see FTGFOP on a label, you’ll know it’s not just alphabet soup—it’s tea royalty. Cheers to steeping smarter!
Sip Away the Sunday Scaries: Our Guide to a Stress-Free New Year
The Sunday Scaries don’t have to take over your weekend, especially as you embrace the possibilities of a new year. Moody Teas is here to help you conquer those Sunday night blues with two transformative blends: Notffee for a gentle energy boost to start your week strong, and Dream Come Blue for a calming wind-down to ensure restful sleep. Whether you're tackling resolutions, reorganizing routines, or just trying to stay ahead of the grind, our teas can turn stress into serenity. Ready to make every week a little brighter? Sip, strategize, and shine with Moody Teas!
Spilling the Tea on Natural and Artificial Flavors
Ever wondered what makes your favorite tea blends taste so irresistible? In this post, we’re spilling the tea on natural and artificial flavors—what they are, where they come from, and why Moody Teas takes a different approach. From the complexities of flavoring processes to allergen concerns and transparency, we’re diving deep into what’s really in your cup. At Moody Teas, we skip the additives and rely on whole ingredients to deliver bold, authentic flavors you can trust. Ready to sip smarter? Let’s dive in!
Tea Term Tuesday: The Buzz About Caffeine in Tea 🍵
Looking for the perfect energy boost? Tea's natural caffeine pairs beautifully with L-theanine to deliver steady, focused energy without the jitters. In this week’s Tea Term Tuesday, we explore how caffeine varies across different teas, how brewing techniques affect caffeine content, and why tea alternatives like guayusa and yaupon deserve a spot in your cup. Whether you need a morning motivator, a midday lift, or a caffeine-free unwind, we've got all the tips and tea blends to match your mood.
Spilling the Tea: WTF is a Tisane?
When it comes to tisanes (pronounced tee-ZAHN or ti-ZAN), the first question that pops up is: WTF are they? Here’s the scoop—tisanes are hot drinks made by steeping plants like herbs, flowers, fruits, or spices in water. Think chamomile, peppermint, or hibiscus. But here’s the kicker: they’re not actually tea. That’s because true tea comes from one specific plant, Camellia sinensis. Tisanes, on the other hand, are doing their own caffeine-free thing, bringing bold flavors and good vibes without the tannins or historical baggage. Want to impress your friends? Drop the word “tisane” next time you’re sipping herbal tea—it’s just a fancier name for the same delicious thing. Whether you call it tea or tisane, one thing’s for sure: it’s a cozy, plant-powered hug in a mug. Cheers!
Tea Term Tuesday: Fannings – The Little Leaf Bits That Just Don’t Measure Up 🍂☕
Not all tea is created equal. Many tea bags rely on fannings—tiny leaf fragments that steep quickly but lack depth, freshness, and complexity. In this post, we explore what fannings are, why they’re so common, and how switching to loose-leaf tea can transform your tea-drinking experience. From better flavor to sustainability and even multiple re-steeps, loose-leaf tea offers more in every cup. Curious about what’s really in your tea? Let’s dive in!
Tea Term Tuesdays: Exploring Unique Flavors from Around the World with Single-Origin Teas
Single-origin tea reflects the unique flavors and characteristics of the region it comes from, offering an authentic connection to its terroir. Unlike single-estate tea, which is sourced from one specific garden, single-origin tea represents the broader essence of a region, with leaves often coming from multiple farms. Beyond flavor, single-origin teas support sustainability by promoting environmentally friendly practices and fair labor, helping preserve traditional farming methods and uplift rural communities. Each cup is a celebration of purity, traceability, and care for the planet.