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!
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: Let’s Chat About Oxidation
Ever wondered why your green tea tastes fresh and grassy while your black tea is bold and malty? It’s all thanks to oxidation—tea’s magical glow-up process. Oxidation is what transforms freshly plucked tea leaves into the wide variety of teas we know and love. From the delicate floral vibes of white tea to the rich, malty depth of black tea, this natural process is the key player. In this week’s Tea Term Tuesday, we’re spilling the tea on how oxidation works, how it shapes your favorite brews, and how to taste the difference. Ready to dive in? Grab your cup and join us for a fun, flavorful journey! 🌿☕
Spilling the Tea: The Real Tea on Detox and Weight Loss Teas
Let’s spill some tea, literally and figuratively. Detox and weight loss teas may sound like the miracle fix you’ve been waiting for, but here’s the truth: they’re all hype and no health. These products rely on laxatives, diuretics, and sketchy marketing to promise quick results—but the only thing they actually lighten is your wallet. The real tea? Your body already has a detoxing pro on staff: your liver and kidneys. Want to boost your wellness the right way? Skip the scams and sip on nourishing, natural teas that support your health without the drama. Check out our Resolution Sale to find blends that truly work for you!
Ring in the New Year with Moody Teas: Tea-Infused Mocktails for Every Celebration
Raise a glass to new beginnings with Moody Teas' vibrant tea-infused mocktails! Whether you're toasting at midnight or diving into your New Year's resolutions, these creative, NA drinks are the perfect way to celebrate. From the cozy warmth of our Apple Chaider Punch to the refreshing zest of the Minty Matcha Mojito, there's a mood for everyone. Start your year with flavorful sips that inspire and uplift you. Here at Moody Teas, we're here to help you brew your best year yet. 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!