Tea Questions, Answered
Whether you're new to loose-leaf tea or exploring different styles, this guide answers some of the most common questions about tea — from caffeine levels to brewing techniques.
Where does your tea come from?
Our teas are sourced from renowned tea-growing regions including Nepal, India, China, Japan, Taiwan, and Sri Lanka. We work with trusted farms and producers who focus on quality and sustainable growing practices. Many of our teas are harvested in small batches and represent the latest seasonal harvests.
Is your tea organic?
Many of our teas are certified organic, while others are grown using traditional farming practices without synthetic chemicals. Each tea product page clearly indicates whether the tea comes from a certified organic source.
Why choose loose-leaf tea instead of tea bags?
Loose-leaf tea uses larger, whole leaves that retain more natural oils and aroma. This results in fuller flavor and a more complex cup compared to most commercial tea bags, which often contain broken leaves or tea dust.
Browse our best selling loose-leaf tea selection to experience the difference.
How much loose-leaf tea should I use per cup?
A good starting point is 1 teaspoon of tea for every 8 ounces of water. Some teas with larger leaves may require slightly more. Brewing instructions are included on each tea’s product page.
What temperature should I use to brew tea?
Recommended brewing temperatures:
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Green tea: 160–180°F
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Oolong tea: 180–200°F
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Black tea: 200–212°F
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Herbal tea: 212°F
Using the correct water temperature helps avoid bitterness and brings out the tea’s natural flavor.
Can loose-leaf tea be steeped more than once?
Yes. Many high-quality loose-leaf teas can be steeped multiple times. Each infusion can reveal new layers of flavor, especially with oolong, green, and whole-leaf teas.
How should I store loose-leaf tea?
Store tea in an airtight container away from light, heat, moisture, and strong odors. Proper storage helps preserve freshness and flavor.
Check out our tea canisters that does the job perfectly.
Does tea expire?
Tea does not spoil easily, but it gradually loses flavor over time. For the best taste, we recommend enjoying tea within 12–18 months of purchase.
Does tea contain caffeine?
Traditional teas made from the Camellia sinensis plant contain caffeine. Black, green, white, and oolong teas all contain caffeine in varying amounts. Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free unless blended with caffeinated tea.
Do you ship tea nationwide?
Yes. We ship tea across the United States and Canada directly from our shop in Rochester, New York. Orders are typically processed within 1–2 business days.
Can I visit your tea shop?
Yes. Our tea shop in Rochester, NY offers a welcoming space where you can enjoy tea, explore our loose-leaf selection, and receive guidance from our staff.
Do you offer tea tastings or events?
Yes. We regularly host tea tastings, classes, and educational events. Joining our newsletter is the best way to stay informed about upcoming events and new tea arrivals.
Is tea healthier than coffee?
Both tea and coffee offer health benefits, but tea typically contains less caffeine and higher levels of certain antioxidants such as catechins. Many people choose tea for its gentler caffeine effect and its wide range of polyphenols that support overall wellness.
Does green tea have caffeine?
Yes. Green tea, like other teas made from Camellia sinensis, contains caffeine, but generally less than coffee. A typical cup of green tea contains about 20–40 mg of caffeine, compared with about 90–100 mg in a cup of coffee.
If you're looking for a gentle daily caffeine option, explore our collection of green teas.
How long should tea steep?
Steeping time depends on the type of tea:
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Green tea: 2–3 minutes
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Oolong tea: 3–5 minutes
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Black tea: 3–5 minutes
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Herbal tea: 5–7 minutes
Steeping too long can make tea taste bitter, especially with green and black teas.
What is the difference between green tea and black tea?
Green tea and black tea both come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. The difference is how the leaves are processed. Green tea is minimally oxidized, which preserves its green color and fresh flavors, while black tea is fully oxidized, producing darker leaves and richer, more robust flavors.
You can explore both styles here:
Still have questions about tea? Visit our tea shop in Rochester, NY or explore our loose-leaf tea collection online.