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Size: 2 oz. Classic Tin
Blend: The Tao of Tea

History: White Earl Grey is a refreshing blend of natural, organic bergamot essence from Sicily and organic white tea from southern Hunan province, China. We hand blend this tea to develop a consistent balance between the flavor of the leaf and the bergamot aroma. More often than not, blenders will mechanize the process and distort the flavor of the leaf. We, at The Tao of Tea taste our teas in small batches and ensure superb quality is maintained through hand blending.

Flavor Profile: Light, cooling, very fragrant, slight citrus flavor.
Ingredients: 100% Organic White Tea, Natural Bergamot Essence
Certified Organic by: Quality Assurance International (QAI)

The young tip bud and first leaf sets used to make this tea are very tender. As such, we recommend using mineral or spring water at a lower temperature (160-180 F) to avoid stewing the leaves and to bring out a more balanced flavor. This tea is much lighter in weight and requires a little more leaf to make a full flavored cup. Around two level teaspoons per 8 oz of water is a good place to start. Steeping time can range between 2 to 4 minutes. Although the amount of re-infusions possible can vary to taste, the above guidelines usually provide 2 to 4. As a general rule of thumb - the longer the steeping time and/or the higher the water temperature, the less leaf needed and fewer re-infusions possible.

Although white teas can be brewed in any vessel, teapots and gaiwans made from porcelain, glass, delicate ceramics, and other materials that release heat quickly work best. If you wish to use an yixing, cast iron, or any vessel made from a heavy material, it is a good idea to tilt open or remove the lid so that some heat is released and the leaf is not stewed.

Traditionally, white teas are enjoyed from porcelain gaiwans. Not only does a gaiwan make it easy to stir the leaf and control the temperature, but also to view the leaf as it is steeping, an important aesthetic in drinking these beautiful teas. Another common method for brewing and drinking white teas is to just place a few of the leaves in a clear glass, add heated water, and wait for the leaf to infuse and submerge. The beverage can then be enjoyed directly with the leaves and more water added as needed.