In the spirit of our commitment to transparency, we're currently updating our batch lookup system. We hope to have the system up and running again soon, in the meantime, you can reach out to customersuccess@smithtea.com with your batch number to learn the provenance of the ingredients of your cup of Smith Tea.
Indian Black Tea
Assam tea is the biggest, brightest, richest and most astringent tea made. It is the backbone to breakfast style teas of nearly all brand and quality although it is also used in many blends for body and top notes. Assam is less floral and has more bread or biscuit-like flavor than other origins, and is often described as malty or coppery.
The Assam region is located in Northeast India, and borders Bhutan and Bangladesh. At near sea level, this region produces teas that are full flavored, rich, and chewy with distinct characteristics of caramel and malt. The best teas from this region are plucked and processed in June and July, a harvest also known as the 2nd Flush.
Chinese Oolong Tea
Although this style of oolong tea originates from Taiwan, we currently source our Bai Hao from Fujian Province in China and it is one of our favorites. Oolong teas fall into a class between fully oxidized (black) tea and non-oxidized (green) tea. As one of the more oxidized oolongs, Bai Hao has large, tightly-twisted blackish leaves with an abundance of silver tips and a complex flavor profile and aroma.
Fujian Province is one of the most famous tea growing regions located on the southeast coast of China. Black, white and oolong teas are all thought to have originated from this province. With Taiwan so close in proximity, there has been much sharing of knowledge between the two in terms of tea plants and production. Oolongs have two harvest seasons, in late spring and fall.
Chinese White Tea
Bai Mu Dan, or White Peony, is often considered the second highest grade of white tea (after Silver Needle) and was traditionally produced in the northern Fujian Province of China. It comes from the top two leaves and bud of the tea bush, which can be shade dried and/or lightly fired. This gives Bai Mu Dan a pale cup color and delicate, nutty aroma. The flavor is delicate and complex, with toasty, slightly sweet floral notes and a clean aftertaste.
Fujian Province is one of the most famous tea growing regions located on the southeast coast of China. Black, white and oolong teas are all thought to have originated from this province. With Taiwan so close in proximity, there has been much sharing of knowledge between the two in terms of tea plants and production. Oolongs have two harvest seasons, in late spring and fall.
Essential Oil
Bergamot is a citrus fruit the color of a lime and the size of a large orange. Picked when ripe, the thick peel is removed and pressed like an olive to extract its essential oils. It has a distinctive flavor and aroma with notes of lavender, lemon and spice.
Harvested in early winter, our bergamot comes from the Ionian Coast of the Reggio Calabria Province. The terroir gives the bergamot fruit grown here more nuance and a variety of aromatics that we are looking for.
Indian Spice
Known as the “King of Spices,” the best black pepper is grown in southern India near Cochin. The berries of the perennial black pepper vine are harvested when unripe, then sun-dried until they blacken. Quality is determined by oil content and appearance. Black pepper is spicy, pungent and often has a light salty characteristic—an important feature in chai blends. After the black pepper has been harvested, it is steam distilled to produce the essential oil.
Kerala is a state in Southwest India, located along the Malabar Coast, famed for its spices dating back to ancient times. Today it is the region from which we source our black pepper and sarsaparilla.
Thai Botanical
This beautiful flower from Southeast Asia is known as “blue tea” for good reason. Upon steeping, the delicate petals of the flower impart a vibrant blue to your cup. An interesting aspect of the tea is the liquid will change color based on the pH level. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime and watch the sea of blue turn purple right before your eyes.
Thailand is in the center of mainland Southeast Asian. It encompasses diverse ecosystems from hilly forested areas in the north to rugged coasts along the southern peninsula and has a long agricultural history dating back to 2,000 BCE.
Dominican Botanical
Cacao nibs come from the Theobroma cacao tree and are one of the main raw ingredients used for making chocolate. Whole cacao beans are shelled, fermented and then broken down into chopped bits of cocoa seeds. These nibs then go through an additional roasting step, resulting in a more flavorful and less bitter tasting cacao nib.
The Dominican Republic is located on the island of Hispanolia in the Carribean, sharing its border with Haiti. While cacao, coffee and sugar combined to make up most of the country's economy thirty years ago, cacao now accounts for just 3% of the country's GDP. We source our cacao nibs during the main harvest between the months of April and July.
Guatemalan Spice
Seductively fragrant, with floral notes and a menthol bite, cardamom is a bush in the ginger family that grows to 10 feet high. Popular in Persian and Indian cooking, it is also widely used in tea and chai blends. We believe the best is produced by indigenous Mayan farmers in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. Its pale yellow flowers turn into clusters of cherries that are dried. These whole green pods or the dark seeds inside are removed to spice tea.
Located in north central Guatemala, this area once helped form the core of the Maya Civilization. Now it is home to half of the production of cardamom in the world. Harvest season takes place between the months of June to February.
Sumatran Spice
Often called cinnamon, cassia is a spice with a significantly different flavor profile than true cinnamon. Grown in subtropical climates, its taste varies widely by origin, and quality is judged by the volatile oil content. In Kerinci in Sumatra, cassia bark is stripped and dried year round from a revolving crop of 10 – 12 year old trees that are continuously replanted. Cassia is sweet, hot and spicy and adds fragrance to our chai blend.
Sumatra is located amongst the Sundar Islands in western Indonesia and is the country's second largest island after Borneo. Marco Polo was said to have visited in 1292. The cinnamon trees need to be more than ten years old before their bark is suitable for harvest.
Sri Lankan Black Tea
The Dimbula region is directly opposite the Uva region in Sri Lanka. Dimbulas are often called “Westerns” in the tea trade. They have a reddish amber color in the cup, with a medium to full body, slightly fruity flavor and mineral notes. Ceylon Dimbulas are often used in medium bodied blends, Earl Grey formulas and other flavored teas. The best Dimbula teas are produced from December to February.
The Central Province, true to its name, is located in the heart of Sri Lanka. It is said that in its capital city of Kandy, the tooth of the Buddha resides in a temple, which alone makes this place worth visiting. Here at Smith, just as holy, are the many breathtaking high elevation tea gardens that make a significant contribution to the total output of high grade Sri Lankan teas, which we look to buy between the months of December to February.
Sri Lankan Black Tea
Situated 1100 meters above sea level on the island of Sri Lanka, the Uva region produces teas of distinctly different character from their Ceylonese siblings. Uvas are astringent, intensely floral and slightly sharp in flavor with a golden cup color. They add “bite” and freshness to blends.
Uva Province is located in the soutestern part of Sri Lanka and is the second least populated portion of the island. It makes up for this with an abundance of exceptional tea gardens and wonderfule scenic overviews, like Lipton's Seat, where one can have a fresh cup of tea from the Dambethenna Estate and a front row seat to harvesting in the surrounding tea fields. We buy our teas during the peak harvest moths of June through September.
Sri Lankan Black Tea
A well known, yet somewhat under-appreciated, tea from the area situated between Uva and Dimbula. Grown and processed at elevations above 1500 meters, Nuwara Eliyas have a very light color and body similar to some first flush Darjeelings. While their body and cup color are light, the flavors can be intense and floral, which add brightness and character to blends.
The Central Province, true to its name, is located in the heart of Sri Lanka. It is said that in its capital city of Kandy, the tooth of the Buddha resides in a temple, which alone makes this place worth visiting. Here at Smith, just as holy, are the many breathtaking high elevation tea gardens that make a significant contribution to the total output of high grade Sri Lankan tea, which we look to buy between the months of December to February.
Egyptian Botanical
With a soothing characteristic and a subtle taste and aroma that is apple-like and toasty, chamomile is one of the most popular herbal ingredients on the market.
Introduced to Egypt from Europe a half century ago, chamomile brings the joy of festive harvest to the oasis of Faiyum. Sourced from Central Egypt, the Nile provides ample water and fertile soil for the world’s finest tasting blossoms. Harvest season for these golden buds is January to April.
Egyptian Botanical
These white petals come from our favorite chamomile flowers, much of which are removed during sorting. For the petals that remain attached, we carefully hand-screen these blossoms at our facility. These petals fresh flavor add distinctive character to our White Petal blend.
Introduced to Egypt from Europe a half century ago, chamomile brings the joy of festive harvest to the oasis of Faiyum. Sourced from Central Egypt, the Nile provides ample water and fertile soil for the world’s finest tasting blossoms. Harvest season for these golden buds is January to April.
Chinese Green Tea
Chunmee is a popular pan-fired Chinese green tea that translates in English to “precious eyebrows” due to the shape of the finished tea leaves. Our Chunmee brews up darker in color than many green teas and has a robust flavor similar to dry plum with a toasty clean finish.
Huang Shan Shi Prefecture is located in southern Anhui Province of China and is famous for making some of the world's best teas. Harvest time for Chunmee is April to May.
Madagascar Spice
Cloves come from the dried flower of a subtropical evergreen tree that can grow to heights of 40 feet in Madagascar, Southern India, and Indonesia. Dried in the sun, these buds become their signature dark reddish black. Cloves are highly aromatic and are used in mulling spices, cooking, and enlivening various tea blends.
The fourth largest island in the world, Madagascar separated from the Indian subcontinent and remained close to Africa after the breakup of the supercontinent Gondwana. Unlike the breakup of most superbands, Madagascar retained its uniqueness with over 90% of its wildlife being found nowhere else on earth. The clove harvest happens from March to May.
Philippine fruit
Coconut flakes are made from the dried, edible fruit of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), a tree of the palm family. Coconuts likely were first cultivated on islands in Southeast Asia and are one of the most important crops of the tropics. Coconut flesh is high in fat and can be dried or eaten fresh or processed into coconut milk or coconut oil. Dried coconut flakes provide a silky and decadent mouth feel when used as an ingredient in tea blends.
The Philippines is made up of 7,641 islands, making it one of the largest archipelagos in the world. Coconut is one of the most important crops in the Philippines with the country being the second largest coconut producer in the world, after Indonesia. Our coconut flakes are fair trade certified and contain no sweeteners or additives.
Botanical from Albania
This blue blossom, also called cornflower, is used primarily by teamakers to add color to dry blends. Grown in Eastern Europe, the flower is handpicked and the calyx removed, leaving thin blue threads of color with little flavor impact. We like the way it makes our Meadow blend look – almost like confetti.
Albania is situated between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas along its western border and Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia and Greece along the north, east and south. Directly behind the heel on the boot of Italy, this country is no heel, with rich biodiversity and history. Cyani is harvested in July.
Chinese Botanical
Native to Europe and Asia and now grown all over, dandelion is so much more than the root of an annoying weed growing in the yard. Dandelion was first used in ancient Chinese medicine. For many centuries it was used as a detoxifying herb and healthful tonic. Dandelion is now recognized in modern herbal medicine for a wide range of conditions known to benefit from mild diuretic action, such as liver disorders, poor digestion, urinary tract disorders, and high blood pressure. The flavor of dandelion root is nutty, toasty and a bit like chicory.
Indian Black Tea
Darjeeling, once a British hill station, is known for producing some of the world’s most prized and expensive teas. The high elevation of Dajeeling tea gardens puts stress on the bushes and results in teas of exceptionally nuanced flavor. Less oxidized compared to later flushes, first flushes are lighter in body and greenish in color, with notes quince, wintergreen and sage.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, the Darjeeling region is home to 87 tea gardens. First flush begins in late March and lasts about 30 days, during which time each bush is plucked every seven days.
Indian Black Tea
Darjeeling, once a British hill station, is known for producing some of the world’s most prized and expensive teas. The high elevation of Darjeeling tea gardens puts stress on the bushes and results in teas of exceptionally nuanced flavor. Teas produced during this period have fuller flavor than teas from the first flush, with notes of muscatel grape, burnt sugar and cedar.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India, the Darjeeling region is home to 87 tea gardens. Second flush begins in early May and lasts for about 30 days, where the tea bushes are plucked every seven days.
American Herb
Echinacea is spiny flowering herb in the daisy family that is native to areas east of the Rocky Mountains in the United States. It has long been used in medicinal practices and is thought to support the immune system and fight infections, especially the common cold and flu.
The United States of America is a North American nation considered to be the world’s leading economic, cultural, and military power. It is made up of 50 states and is the third most populous country in the world. The US is also home to some of the most diverse landscape around, being home to natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon (one of the seven wonders of the world) and urban epicenters such as New York City.
Flowering Plant
Elderberry is the deep red fruit of the elder tree and a superfood that has been used for its health benefits for hundreds of years. It is known to be high in antioxidants and many believe it can relieve colds, fight the flu, and boost the immune system.
Bulgaria is part of the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe and is known as one of the region’s oldest countries, being founded in the 7th century. It is bordered by Turkey, Greece, Macedonia, Serbia, Romania and the Black Sea, and it boasts a diverse landscape that include beautiful mountains and dramatic coastlines.
Botanical from Bulgaria
An herbal infusion prized in Europe for its medicinal benefits, elderflower is now known in North America as a key ingredient in St-Germain liqueur. With a lightly floral, fresh and slightly spicy taste and aroma, elderflower adds subtle impact to blends. Our favorite is hand harvested near Samokov, Bulgaria, where the white flowers are cut from branches, dried in the shade, and carefully sorted for shipment to buyers in Europe and America.
Bulgaria is a country of eight million people in Southeast Europe that shares borders with five countries and offers beach front property along the Black Sea. While a battleground for the larger surrounding powers during ancient times, this country has found relative stability after World War II and is famous as a source for various botanicals, including elderflowers, which are harvested in the spring.
Egyptian Botanical
Native to the Mediterranean and now grown all over, fennel has feathery leaves, yellow flowers and a root resembling a carrot. While active compounds are found in the leaves, stems and roots, the seed is the most concentrated part of the plant and is used most often in herbal medicine. Fennel is known to relieve issues of the digestive, endocrine, reproductive, and respiratory systems. It is also widely used in cooking and has a flavor reminiscent of anise.
Egypt is one of the few countries with borders that stretch into two continents and is considered to be home to one of the three oldest civilizations. The Nile is the primary source of water for Egypt and much of the country's agriculture is situated near its banks. Fennel seeds are harvested during the fall months.
Japanese Toasted Rice
Genmai, or brown rice, used with tea goes through a rigorous process by which it's rinsed, soaked, steamed, and dried before undergoing a three-step roasting process that gives the final product its characteristic toasted flavor.
Kumamoto and Oita Prefectures are located in the central part of Kyushu island, boasting subtropic climates ideal for growing rice. Since we are on the subject of boasting, we had the best time when we toured the Kumamoto Castle and the gawked at springs in Oita appropriately titled the Hells of Beppu. Our genmai is harvested in the fall, generally in October/November.
Indian Spice
Ginger, used in many cultures to enliven food and drink, is also known for its healthful qualities. A light stimulant, it can treat cold symptoms and sore throat. Ginger is cultivated most prominently in India, China, Indonesia and West Africa. After the plant flowers and the leaves die off, the roots are dug, washed, peeled and sun dried. Ginger’s spicy-sweet flavor adds spark and complexity to our Big Hibiscus.
India is located in Southern Asia and is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations (Indus Valley shout out). It is a country rich in history, culture, religion, geography and so much more, and has been famous since ancient times as a source for spices that continue to be coveted around the world. Our ginger comes from several regions in India and is harvested multiple times during the year.
South African Botanical
Green rooibos comes from the same shrub like plant used to make rooibos (Aspalathus linearis). It grows exclusively in a region about 250 km north of Cape Town and the plants are harvested when they reach about 3 feet in height. The topmost tender shoots are hand-cut, then further cut by machine into smaller pieces suitable for tea, followed by drying that preserves the herb's flavor and green color.
Clanwilliam is a small farming town of 7,000 nestled between the Cederburg Mountains and the Olifants River in Western Cape, South Africa and is ground zero for the world's supply of Rooibos and lead vocalists for Skid Row. Rooibos is harvested from January through April.
Chinese Green Tea
Gunpowder tea is a type of green tea rolled into small round pellets. Though its Chinese name translates to ‘pearl tea’, its English name is said to be derived from its resemblance to pelleted gunpowder used for cannons and muskets of the era. This rolling method allows tea leaves to stay fresh longer than other green teas due to its compressed form in addition to retaining more of its characteristic earthy flavor and aroma.
Anhui is an eastern Chinese province and home to the Huangshan Mountains. It is situated in a transitional zone between temperate and subtropical climates and known for its distinctive landscape of low-hanging clouds, unique granite rocks and twisted pines made famous by many classical paintings. Tea production in Anhui can be traced back to over 2,000 years ago and became a prized producing region for the imperial courts.
Egyptian Botanical
Hibiscus flower is cultivated in many coutries around the world including China, Thailand and Egypt. We particularly like the Egyptian variety–it is brighter, fruitier and more exciting. High in vitamin C, hibiscus is tart, deep red, and slightly earthy with concord grape-like characteristics.
Egypt is one of the few countries with borders that stretch into two continents and is considered to be home to one of the three oldest civilizations. The Nile is the primary source of water for Egypt and much of the country's agriculture is situated near its banks. Hibiscus is harvested in the Fall.
Japanese Roasted Green Tea
Hojicha is the biproduct of making Sencha and Bancha and comes from the discarded misshapen leaves and stems during those teas' production. An extra step is added, through roasting the tea, which creates a very different flavor profile and makes for a lightly caffeinated cup. Deceptively rich, with notes of honey, cacao and wood.
Kagoshima Prefecture is located on the southern most part of Kyushu Island and is the second largest tea producing prefecture in Japan (after Shizuoka). It is also famous for Sakurajima, Japan's most active volcano that is pretty hard to miss if you spend anytime in Kagoshima City. Harvest time for the tea used to make Houjicha happens from April through September.
South African Botanical
Honeybush is an evergreen shrub, closely related to rooibos, that grows in the eastern Cape of South Africa. Although there have been attempts at cultivating and farming honeybush, most species are found and harvested in nature, also known as wildcrafting. The slender leaves, stems and flowers are hand cut and then allowed to oxidize in the sun. Honeybush is known to be high in antioxidants, minerals and vitamins, similar to rooibos. As the name implies, it has a distinctly honey-like aroma. Naturally caffeine-free, honeybush has notes of peach, cedar and sweetgrass, with a pinkish golden hue in the cup.
Clanwilliam is a small farming town of 7,000 nestled between the Cederburg Mountains and the Olifants River in Western Cape, South Africa and is ground zero for the world's supply of Honeybush, which is harvested in September and October.
Southern Oregon Botanical
Hyssop is a well-loved ingredient in our pantry. We use hyssop for structure and sweetness in a variety of blends. It grows best in arid regions and is particularly suited for the dry climate of Southern Oregon. Seeds are sprouted in greenhouses during the early spring to avoid frost and are then transported to prepared fields for the dry, hot summer. The fields are irrigated with fresh water regularly, helping the hyssop to flourish in the heat. After harvest, the hyssop is dried and sorted for market.
Southern Oregon is generally demarked by the Pacific Ocean on its west and the Cascade Mountains to its east. It has been the home to several national rodeo champions, including the 1934 great Leonard Ward, and continues to hold one the best annual Shakespeare Festivals in the world. Its dry climate, cowboy culture and dramatic tendencies have made this the perfect place for crops like Hyssop, which is planted in the early Spring and undergoes two harvests in June and then September.
Chinese Green Tea
In northern Fujian Province, China, Jasmine Pearls are produced using just the bud of the tea bush. Harvested in spring and pan fired to neutralize their oxidizing enzyme, the slender green buds are rolled into tiny pearls and stored until July, when the jasmine flowers begin to bloom. The pearls are then layered between just-picked jasmine blossoms. This scenting process can be repeated up to four times before the spent jasmine is removed to create the finest tea.
Fujian Province is one of the most famous tea growing regions located on the southeast coast of China. Black, white and oolongs teas are all thought to have originated from this province. With Taiwan so close in proximity, there has been much sharing of knowledge between the two in terms of tea plants and production. Jasmine Pearls begin their production in April and are finished in June and July.
Chinese Green Tea
Grown in Fujian Province, China, Jasmine Silver Tip is also know as Jasmine Yin Hao and has a delicate yet pronounced floral scent and flavor. The green leaves are harvested in spring, pan fired to neutralize their oxidizing enzyme and stored until July, when jasmine flowers begin to bloom. The tea is then layered with unopened jasmine buds, which slowly unfurl and share their heavenly fragrance. Once the flowers have scented the tea, they are removed.
Fujian Province is one of the most famous tea growing regions located on the southeast coast of China. Black, white and oolongs teas are all thought to have originated from this province. With Taiwan so close in proximity, there has been much sharing of knowledge between the two in terms of tea plants and production. Jasmine Silver Tips begin their production in April and are finished in July.
Chinese Black Tea
Keemun tea is grown in the mountainous region of Eastern China called Anhui Province. There are many grades of Keemun, with Hao Ya being one of the best. Keemun Hao Ya has a very thin, wiry and tightly twisted leaf that is black with grey hues. This brings a unique, slightly smoky flavor and aroma that reminds us of camping on the Oregon coast. A great self drinking tea, tasty neat or with milk and sugar.
Qimen County is located in western Huang Shan Shi Prefecture in southern Anhui Province of China, and is famous for making one of the world's best black teas—Keemun. The county is still very rural compared to other parts of China, so it's the perfect place to slow down, kick up your feet and drink some fantastic tea. Harvest times are in the Spring and Summer.
Indian Botanical
Native to the Indian subcontinent, Tulsi (also known as Holy Basil) is a subshrub with aromatic leaves that grows up to 24 inches tall. As an adaptogen, studies have shown that tulsi is effective in addressing physical, chemical, metabolic and psychological stress through a unique combination of pharmacological actions. Krishna tulsi is a more rare, tropical species of tulsi with purplish-green leaves and is named after the beloved Hindu god. Historically, Krishna tulsi has been a significant herb in Ayurvedic medicine and today remains one of India's most cherished and sacred plants. The flavor has notes of allspice, peppermint and nettles.
India is located in Southern Asia and is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations (Indus Valley shout out). It is a country rich in history, culture, religion, geography and so much more, and has been famous since ancient times as a source for spices that continue to be coveted around the world. Holy basil is very much a part of the culture and religion throughout India and many traditional Hindus keep holy basil plants on an altar in the courtyard of their homes.
Botanical from Provence
A fragrant evergreen shrub with beautiful purple flower spikes that bloom every summer. French Lavender has a more delicate aroma than its English counterpart and is often used in aromatherapy for its calming properties. Drive through the hillsides of Provence during July with a convertible and breathe in its beautiful scent.
A famous vacation destination, Provence is a beautiful coastal region in the south of France. It also happens to be where our founder Steve Smith was living when he had his “Ah-Ha” moment to start a tea company unlike any other in the world. That company would become Smith Teamaker.
Herb
Lemongrass is a tall stalky plant native to SE Asia and a prized culinary ingredient. Beloved for its lemony flavor that stands up well to cooking, lemongrass is also known for its health benefits and has been known to contain inflammation-fighting and anti-anxiety compounds.
Located in northeastern Africa, Egypt is home to the iconic river Nile and was the site of one of our world’s earliest ancient civilizations.
Herb
Lemon Balm is an herb in the mint family with a distinct yet delicate lemon-like flavor and aroma. It is often used in traditional and alternative medicine, including aromatherapy, and is known to have soothing and calming properties.
Vermont is a state in the northeastern United States, known for its natural landscape, which is primarily forested. It is the only landlocked state in the New England region and known as a major producer of maple syrup. Thousands of acres of mountain terrain are crossed by hiking trails and skiing slopes.
Australian Botanical
Lemon Myrtle is commercially grown in Eastern Australia and the evergreen bush can be cultivated multiple times per year. It provides the unmistakable citrus notes in our Fez, Meadow, and Big Hibiscus teas.
The Northern Rivers Region is located in the far northeast of New South Wales in Australia, 500 km north of Sydney, Australia. Once on the decline, it has now been revitalized through niche crops (like Lemon Myrtle), hobby farming and tourism. We'd also like to think it was partly due to some of the fabulously named areas in the region, like the Gold Coast and Nightcap National Park. Camping anyone?
Botanical from China
Licorice root comes from a herbaceous perennial that has been used medicinally for thousands of years in both the East and West. In modern times it has also become used as an ingredient in various tea blends. Licorice root is utilized to give body and sweetness to our holiday blend, Silent Night.
China is located in Eastern Asia and is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations. It is also the birthplace of tea and continues to lead on innovation in every tea category. Traditional Chinese Medicine is often practiced using an array of botanicals and spices, many of whcich are grown locally, including the licorice root in our pantry. Our licorice comes from several regions in China and is harvested in the spring and fall.
Botanical from Bulgaria
Grown in Eastern Europe these dried leaves and flowers provide the foundation for our Mother's Day blend, Bouquet, and make their way into a variety of blends throughout the year.
Bulgaria is a country of eight million people in Southeast Europe that shares borders with five countries and offers beach front property along the Black Sea. While a battleground for the larger surrounding powers during ancient times, this country has found relative stability after World War II and is famous as a source for botanicals, including the linden leaf and flower in our pantry, which is harvested in June.
Chinese Green Tea
Traditionally pan-fired in a hot wok and flattened by hand, Dragonwell, also known as "Long Jing", is for many the most famous green tea. The best comes from Hangzhou, near the spring where a dragon was said to dwell. We prize its pale emerald color and slightly sweet, chestnut-like taste.
Hangzhou is the capital city of Zhejiang Province in Eastern China. Long since seen in China as a center for culture, food and art, Hangzhou is also famous for Xi Hu, or its West Lake. True to its name, this westernly situated lake is a pure joy to jog around in the morning, where one can take in the scenery and watch the locals gather in groups to practice taijiquan, line dance, jazzercise and so much more. Long Jing is harvested from late March to May.
Chinese Green Tea
Grown in the mountains of central Zhejiang Province, China, at altitudes above 3000 feet, Mao Feng is harvested in the spring and quickly hot air fired. This neutralizes the oxidizing enzyme and seals in the fresh flavors and aromas. The long, slender jade leaves of Mao Feng brew to a color of pale green and impart a pleasing vegetative fragrance with buttery notes and lingering sweetness.
Wuyi County is located in central Zhejiang Province in Eastern China and should not be confused for the famous Wuyishan tea growing region in Fujian Province. It is an area famous for agriculture and tourism, most noteably Jinhua ham and hot springs respectively. Our Mao Feng is harvested from mid March to May.
Japanese Green Tea
To make Matcha, the tea plants are covered for up to three weeks before harvest, allowing only diffused light to reach the leaves. This promotes the development of chlorophyll and increases L-Theanine content, which brightens color, increases flavor and helps counterbalance the energizing effects of the caffeine. After plucking, the leaves are steamed, neutralizing the oxidizing enzyme and preserving their color. They are then put through a rolling and drying process, along with a special step through a machine that removes the viens and stems of each leaf. The tea that results from this process is called Tencha, which is then refrigerated until it is ready to be ground. In the final step, Tencha leaves are placed in small amounts on a granite grinder to make its signature fine powder. Granite is ideal for grinding, as it doesn’t produce much heat, which helps to maintain the rich color of the Matcha and its full flavor in the cup.
Gifu Prefecture is in the Chubu region, which is centrally located on the island of Honshu in Japan. It is just north of the most famous Matcha producing regions of Uji and Aichi. While not as famous, this area produces Matcha of equal quality, without all the hype. Harvest season is from April through June.
Full Leaf Oolong Tea
This full leaf tea is a variety of oolong tea and popularly known as ‘Milk Oolong’. It originates from Taiwan and naturally tastes light and creamy, often compared to milk.
Taiwan is an island in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of southeastern China. Mountains cover approximately two-thirds of the island mainly located in its interior. Its subtropical climate and fertile soils are suited for a variety of agricultural products and currently has nearly 50,000 acres of tea farms.
Indian Spice
Nutmeg is a spice made from the seed of the genus Myristica. Myristica fragrans is a dark-leaved evergreen tree cultivated for two popular spices derived from its fruit: nutmeg, from its seed, and mace, from the seed covering. Nutmeg has a distinctive fragrance and a warm slightly sweet taste; it is used to flavor many different dishes and beverages.
India is located in Southern Asia and is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations (Indus Valley shout out). It is a country rich in history, culture, religion, geography and so much more, and has been famous since ancient times as a source for spices that continue to be coveted around the world.
Indian Black Tea
With little to no astringency, Nilgiri teas are aromatic, fruity, floral and gentle on the palate. These medium bodied teas make excellent iced teas since they don’t get bitter, don’t cloud, and are naturally smooth and sweet. With a golden yellow cup color, they can be slightly spicy with a crisp, clean, sometimes nutty finish.
Nilgiri translates to "blue mountain". It is a range of mountains that are part of the larger Western Ghats and are located in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in Southern India. With over 24 peaks reaching higher than 2,000 meters, it made this area perfect for growing tea and other botanicals, along with providing the British in the Raj era respite during India's long hot summer. Tea is harvested between January-February and secondarily between August-September.
Citrus Fruit
Dried orange peel is a by-product of the most commonly grown fruit in the world. It has long been coveted in cooking and natural medicine for its bright flavor and health properties. When used in a tea application, dried orange peel adds body and subtle citrus notes that often bring balance to blends.
Turkey has a unique geographic location straddling Southwestern Asia and Southeastern Europe with deep cultural connections to ancient Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. It has long been a bridge between the Europe and Asia, making it a country of diverse cultures, beautiful natural landscape, devout tea drinkers and the most beautiful rugs in the world. Turkey happens to have the highest consumption of tea per capita. Rich in natural vegetation, historians date agriculturalism back to Turkey around 11,000 BC. Turkey is one of the world’s top fruit producers. Its regional differences in climate and soil type provide an optimum environment for fruit cultivation especially fruits such as pears, oranges and grapes.
Chinese Botanical
Osmanthus is a species of evergreen shrubs and trees native to Asia. Its flowers are extremely fragrant and when made into a tea have strong peach notes. A favorite of Steve's, we use this botanical in our signature White Petal blend.
Zhejiang Province is located in Eastern China, directly south of Shanghai and Jiangsu Province. These three areas made up a region known in earlier times as the "Land of Fish and Rice". Today, Zhejiang still holds up its end of the bargain as home to China's largest fishery and as one of the largest food producers, along with leading in tea production. Osmanthus is harvested here in the summer to be blended with tea, herbs or enjoyed on its own.
Pacific Northwest Botanical
The world’s most flavorful peppermint comes from the Pacific Northwest, where the summers are hot and dry. Ours is harvested just before it begins to flower, when the oil content is highest. After cutting, the plant is allowed to field dry. Then the stems are removed and the mint is sorted into uniform leaf sizes. With intense menthol and rich chocolate notes, Pacific Northwest peppermint is a real wakeup for your senses.
The Pacific Northwest is a region along the West Coast of the U.S., consisting of the states of Oregon and Washington. The Cascade Mountain Range, which cuts through the region from north to south, acts as distinct divider of landscape and climate, with the west side receiving ample rain, creating a lush evergreen environment, while the east remains arid, creating a high desert environment. While Peppermint has historically been grown on both sides, it is now primarily grown east of the Cascades and harvested in the summer.
Semi-Oxidized Oolong Tea
Crafted by a family who has been making Phoenix Oolong for over 60 years, this tea is made using the Mi Lan Xiang (Honey Orchid Fragrance) cultivar which is one of the most well-known and for good reason. It makes for an exceptional tea with balanced fruit and floral notes. A perfect sip for both the connoisseur and those looking to explore world of oolong.
Equivalent to the size of Florida and located just north of Hong Kong, Guangdong is the most populous province in China with over 100 million residents. Most famous for being associated as the birthplace of Canton cuisine, it is also known in the tea world for producing Phoenix Oolong in a mountain range set in the north-eastern part of the province around the town of Phoenix (Fenghuang). These oolong teas are categorized often by their aromas, ranging from fruit to spice to floral.
Indian Botanical
Pink rose petals are a favorite ingredient in our pantry. They provide sweetness and spice along with distinct floral qualities and are used to create complexity in a variety of our Signature Blends.
India is located in Southern Asia and is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations (Indus Valley). It is a country rich in history, culture, religion, geography and so much more, and has been famous since ancient times as a source for herbs and spices that continue to be coveted around the world. Our pink rose petals come from several regions in India and are harvested in March.
Chinese Pu-erh Tea
A highly prized Chinese Pu-erh tea, this full-leaf fermented black tea is aged for 3 years. Grown at around 5,000 ft elevation in Feng Cheng, Yunnan, China, this tea produces a dark liquor with smooth and complex earthy flavor and sweet lingering finish.
Yunnan which translates to "South Cloud", is a province jammed into the South Western most part of China. Not only does it share international borders with Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam, but there is a constant cultural exchange in these border regions, which is distinct from the rest of mainland China. Tea was first cultivated in this region thousands of years ago and it still produces some pretty amazing teas.
Full Leaf Semi-Oxidized Oolong Tea
As you steep the ball rolled leaves of this Snowfield oolong, watch them unfurl dramatically to offer a rare taste of modern teamaking at its finest. These are leaves of the famous Taiwanese cultivar Qingxin (Green Heart) which have been grown high in a garden in Yunnan at the western edge of China. They have been picked in a traditional high mountain style that allows for a full growth cycle before plucking, then very lightly oxidized, rolled and dried using authentic Taiwanese equipment. The result is a truly thrilling oolong, proving once again that China's most venerable tea tradition is the endless thirst for new tastes.
Yunnan, which translates to "South Cloud" is a province jammed into the southwestern most part of China. Not only does it share international borders with Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam, but there is a constant cultural exchange in these border regions, which is distinct from the rest of mainland China. Tea was first cultivated in this region thousands of years ago and it still produces some pretty amazing teas.
Indian Botanical
Less utilized in our blends than their pink counterparts, dried red rose petals are more pungent and perfumed.
Pakistan is located in South Asia and shares borders with Iran and Afghanistan to its west, China to its north and India to its east. Separated from India during The Partition in 1947, Pakistan has a diverse landscape and climate, with a fifth of its GDP coming from agriculture. Our red rose petals are harvested in early Spring, usually in March.
South African Botanical
Rooibos, also known as red bush, is perhaps the most tea-like and naturally caffeine-free beverage in the world. During the 20th Century, red bush went from being a mostly indigenous drink of South Africa to a global commodity and a cash crop for the Clanwilliam district. Rooibos is also known to be high in antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. Similar to tea, rooibos generally undergoes an oxidation process after the leaves are cut, when it develops a uniquely sweet and creamy flavor, without the astringency of black tea. It is a common alternative to coffee or tea because it also stands up well to milk and sugar and can be served in various forms quite easily (hot, iced, lattes, etc.). Rooibos can also be steamed after being picked to stop the oxidation process, which will keep it as green rooibos, a more vegetal and floral flavor than the more common red rooibos.
Clanwilliam is a small farming town of 7,000 nestled between the Cederburg Mountains and the Olifants River in Western Cape, South Africa and is ground zero for the world's supply of Rooibos and lead vocalists for Skid Row. Rooibos is harvested from January through April.
Botanical from Morocco
Rosemary is a highly fragrant perennial herb that derives its name from Latin, meaning "dew of the sea", and is native to the Mediterranean. The evergreen needle-like leaves are what give this herb its flavor and it is used in many cuisines surrounding this region.
Morocco is a country located in Northwest Africa that has long been a place romanticized by artists and bohemians, and for good reason. It is rich in culture, cuisine and history, with picturesque old cities and stunning landscapes. Our rosemary is harvested in the summer.
Botanical from China
Firey in color, with a bright yellow brew color, Safflower is often mistaken or used in place of safron, that is until someone tastes it. Safflower is slightly sweet with notes of squash. It also produces a texture that we use to round out brighter qualitites of other herbs when blending.
China is located in Eastern Asia and is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations. It is also the birthplace of tea and continues to lead on innovation in every tea category. Traditional Chinese Medicine is often practiced using an array of botanicals and spices, many of which are grown locally, including the safflower in our pantry. Our safflower comes from several regions in China and is harvested in the height of summer.
Indian Botanical
Sarsaparilla root from India is unlike sarsaparilla from other origins. It has a taste and aroma that is vanilla-like and creamy, making it ideal for use in chai and blends with rooibos, or simply enjoying by itself. A climbing plant that grows throughout India, the root is dug, washed, peeled and sun dried. The thicker roots of the sarsaparilla plant make the best and most flavorful brew.
Nilgiri translates to "blue mountain". It is a range of mountains that are part of the larger Western Ghats and are located in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in Southern India. With over 24 peaks reaching higher than 2,000 meters, it made this area perfect for growing tea and other botanicals, along with providing the British in the Raj era respite during India's long hot summers.
Japanese Green Tea
Slender needle-like leaves produce a deeply vegetal taste and aroma, ripe with notes of toasted rice and nori. The leaves are steamed to perfection to stop oxidation of the leaf, as well as to lock in their deep jade color and rich flavor.
Shizuoka Prefecture is located in the Chubu region, on the island of Honshu in Japan. While unable to claim full ownership of Mt. Fuji (its a joint custody thing with Yamanashi Prefecture), Shizuoka can tout being the biggest tea producing region in Japan, which says something. Harvest time for Sencha happens from April through June.
Chinese Pu-erh Tea
A highly prized Chinese Pu-erh tea, this full-leaf fermented tea produces a dark liquor with smooth and complex earthy flavor and sweet lingering finish.
Fengqing County is in Lincang Prefecture, located in the western part of Yunnan Province in China. It shares its western border with Myanmar. This is an area famous for producing black tea and shu pu-erh. The tea used to make our pu-erh is harvested between March and May and is then fermented for several months.
Native American Herb
Indigenous to Eastern North America and a member of the mint family, skullcap grows up to 3 feet tall and has small, helmet-like shaped flowers for which it was named by Native Americans. Though this herb has been used for centuries in curing various ailments, in Western herbal medicine, skullcap is used for improving liver function and treating tension, anxiety and insomnia. It has a pleasant, earthy and vegetal flavor.
Known as the “Green Mountain State,” Vermont is located in the northeastern United States, and is known for its natural landscape, which is primarily forested. In addition to producing dairy, hay, maple syrup, apples, and sweet corn, Vermont is home to many small farms that grow a variety of plants and herbs for both medicinal and culinary uses.
Pacific Northwest Botanical
Spearmint leaves are highly aromatic, lighter and more piercing than peppermint. Their fresh flavor and aroma impart a sweet minty character that blends beautifully with green tea. Grown in eastern and central Oregon, our spearmint leaves are cut using a swathing machine, then field dried and sorted into uniform leaf sizes.
The Pacific Northwest is a region along the West Coast of the U.S., consisting of the states of Oregon and Washington. The Cascade Mountain Range, which cuts through the region from north to south, acts as distinct divider of lanscape and climate, with the west side receiving ample rain, creating a lush evergreen environment, while the east remains arid, creating a high desert environment. While Spearmint has historically been grown on both sides, it is now primarily grown east of the Cascades and harvested in the summer.
Indian Botanical
Stevia leaf is nature's best sweetener. Often confused for it's highly processed sweetener namesake, the leaf itself is more delicate and nuanced in its flavor. Still sweet and full of body, we use it primarily in our holiday blend, Silent Night, where it provides a natural sweetness earning it the title of "Candycane in a Cup." It's produced around the world, but we find it's best when grown in India or China.
India is located in Southern Asia and is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations (Indus Valley). It is a country rich in history, culture, religion, geography and so much more and has been famous since ancient times as a source for herbs and spices that continue to be coveted around the world. Stevia is a summer herb, harvested in June through August.
Botanical from Bulgaria
Sweet Blackberry Leaf is an excellent ingredient to add a touch of sweetness to an herbal blend.
Bulgaria is a country of eight million people in Southeast Europe that shares borders with five countries and offers beach front property along the Black Sea. While a battleground for the larger surrounding powers during ancient times, this country has found relative stability after World War II and is famous as a source for botanicals, including the sweet blackberry leaf in our pantry, which is harvested in early spring.
Indian Botanical
Turmeric, part of the ginger family, is a flowering plant that has been coveted in India as a cooking spice, natural dye and medicinal herb for thousands of years. With its iconic vivid golden color, turmeric has a somewhat bitter and earthy flavor profile with notes of pepper, ginger and orange. There are many medicinal properties of turmeric and the vibrant ingredient has become widely recognized as a superfood in recent years.
Touted as “India’s new adventure playground,” Meghalaya is a beautiful, hilly agricultural region that carves through the renowned Assam valley and the plains of Bangladesh. But bring your raincoat, because Meghalaya is also one of the rainiest places on earth, boasting an average annual rainfall of 470 inches.
Medicinal Herb
The wild cherry tree has a reddish-brown bark that has traditionally been used for its wellness-supporting properties. Wild cherry bark is often used as a remedy for coughs (it is a common ingredient in cough syrup) and is known to support the respiratory system as well as a host of other immunity boosting benefits.
The United States of America is a North American nation considered to be the world’s leading economic, cultural, and military power. It is made up of 50 states and is the third most populous country in the world. The US is also home to some of the most diverse landscape around, being home to natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon (one of the seven wonders of the world) and urban epicenters such as New York City.
Chinese Black Tea
The best dian hongs, or black teas, from Yunnan (known as the birthplace of tea) are wiry and tightly twisted with distinct golden tips. This exquisite variety brews up rich amber-red in color, has a lightly sweet, floral flavor and aroma, and brings welcome notes of spice and leather.
Yunnan which translates to "South Cloud", is a province jammed into the South Western most part of China. Not only does it share international borders with Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam, but there is a constant cultural exchange in these border regions, which is distinct from the rest of mainland China. Tea was first cultivated in this region thousands of years ago and it still produces some pretty amazing teas. Our Yunnan is harvested in spring.
Chinese White Tea
This white tea is made from only the bud of the tea bush. With delicate sweetness and melon-like flavor, it has subtle floral notes and a lingering complexity, that is also telling of the terroir of Yunnan.
Yunnan which translates to "South Cloud", is a province jammed into the South Western most part of China. Not only does it share international borders with Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam, but there is a constant cultural exchange in these border regions which is distinct from the rest of mainland China. Tea was first cultivated in this region thousands of years ago and it still makes some pretty amazing teas. Our Yunnan Silver Needle is harvested in early spring.
Chinese Black Tea
The original Lapsang, the most sought after smoked tea in all of China. Delicate and wiry black tea leaves are smoked with pine boughs for a complex and full yet smooth experience.
Zhejiang Province is located in Eastern China, directly south of Shanghai and Jiangsu Province. These three areas made up a region known in earlier times as the "Land of Fish and Rice". Today, Zhejiang still holds up its end of the bargain as home to China's largest fishery and as one of the largest food producers, along with leading in tea production. The tea used in Zheng Shan is harvested in the spring and then smoked in the summer.
