White Tea

Our loose leaf white teas are the least processed teas we carry. Choose delicate Organic Silver Needle (Yin Zhen), made only from unopened buds; fuller, honeyed Organic White Peony (Bai Mu Dan), made from buds and young leaves; or our everyday White Tea. Brew white tea below boiling, around 175–185°F, and steep 3–5 minutes. Learn more in What Is White Tea?

Packed To Order · Smithfield, Virginia

How to Choose a Loose Leaf White Tea

White tea is the least processed of all teas: young leaves and buds that are simply withered and gently dried. It is soft, sweet and delicate. The main difference between white teas is how much of the plant is used, from buds alone to buds with young leaves.

Buds and young leaves

The best white teas use the first buds of spring, sometimes with one or two young leaves.

Minimal processing

No rolling or firing: just withering and drying, which keeps the flavor gentle.

Whole leaf

Fluffy, intact buds and leaves that re-steep well.

Fresh

Packed to order in small batches.

Choose a White Tea

All of our white teas are above. Here is how they differ.

Most Delicate

Buds only: silky, sweet and light.

Fuller & Floral

Buds with young leaves for more body and flavor.

Everyday

An easygoing white tea for any time.

  • White Tea — leaves and buds; soft and gentle

How to Brew White Tea

Water temperature

175–185°F, below boiling. Let boiling water rest about 3 minutes if you have no thermometer.

Amount

1–2 teaspoons per 8 oz. The leaves are light and bulky, so a generous scoop gives a better cup.

Steep time

2–4 minutes. White tea rarely turns bitter, so you can lengthen it for more flavor.

Re-steeping

The same leaves give two or three more cups; add about a minute each time.

Good to Know

  • Caffeine: white tea comes from the tea plant and contains caffeine, usually less than black tea. It varies with the tea and the steep.
  • Looking for pine needle tea? Despite its name, White Pine Needle Tea is a caffeine-free herbal tea, not a white tea.
  • Storage: keep white tea sealed, away from light, heat and strong smells; the delicate buds pick up odors easily.
  • Learn more: read What Is White Tea?

White Tea FAQ

Does white tea have caffeine?

Yes, usually less than black tea. The amount varies with the tea, how much you use and how long you steep it.

Silver Needle or White Peony?

Silver Needle is buds only and the most delicate. White Peony adds young leaves for a fuller, more floral cup.

White tea vs. green tea: what is the difference?

Green tea is heated soon after picking. White tea is simply withered and dried, which gives it a softer, sweeter flavor.

What temperature should I brew white tea?

175–185°F, below boiling, for 2–4 minutes.

Can I make iced white tea?

Yes. Cold brew 2 tablespoons in 32 oz of cold water in the fridge for 6–8 hours.