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!
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.
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! 🌿☕
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.