Want to know the secret to the perfect cup of tea? Aimee Clark of Equator Coffees & Teas shared some great insights with us on all things tea, especially regarding brewing and the benefits loose leaf. 

Tea Varieties All pure leaf tea starts out basically the same, using processed leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant. There are some variations within the species, but the main difference comes from the processing, which usually involves some combination of withering, oxidation, firing, rolling and drying. For instance, white and green teas don’t undergo oxidation, and other methods are used to create black or Pu-erh (fermented) tea. Herbal blends, while often referred to as “tea,” actually contain no tea leaves, and are also known as tisanes. 

Loose Leaf vs. Pre-Bagged While many pre-bagged teas offer great convenience and quality you may often find smaller leaves of a lower grade and different flavor profile. If you’re looking for a pure flavor that is truer to the plant, high quality loose leaf tea may be your best option. When shopping for loose leaf tea, look for large, whole leaves without a lot of dust or broken pieces. Note that there are different styles and colors of tea leaf depending on the type and processing. 

Brewing Method Whether you use a tea press, infuser or kettle, know what you’re brewing and follow the basic guidelines for that type of tea. In general, lighter teas will need lower temperatures and shorter steep times, while black teas take hotter temperatures and steep longer. Different steeping times will yield different flavors, so you can also decide what tastes best to you. For the best cup, start with fresh filtered water, and do not boil or reheat. 

Shelf Life While loose leaf tea has a good shelf life, it is best to use the tea within a few months. Green and white teas are the most sensitive to the effects of air, while black tea can last slightly longer (3-6 months). To help keep your tea in peak condition, store in an airtight container in a cool, dark area. 

BYOT (Blend Your Own Tea) Have fun with all your favorite flavors by mixing your own tea blend! If you need a little inspiration, here are a few tried and true blends recommended by Aimee:

• Earl Grey tea with lavender flowers
• Ceylon tea with hibiscus
• Herbal tisane with lavender, mint and chamomile
• Green tea scented with jasmine 

No matter what tea you’re looking for, you can find a variety of loose leaf tea options in our bulk section*, ready to enjoy steeped on their own, or as part of your very own concoction! 

*Selection may vary by location.