White tea is the least processed tea: young buds and leaves are simply withered and dried. The result is delicate, naturally sweet and honeyed, with soft floral notes — a quiet, elegant cup best brewed with water well below boiling.
About white tea
The result is a pale, delicate cup with honey, melon or floral notes. Silver Needle teas are made only from downy buds, as in Bai Hao Yin Zhen Silver Needle and the rare Darjeeling Silver Needle. White Peony teas such as Pai Mu Tan White Peony add young leaves for a fuller taste.
For deeper, sweeter flavour, try aged white tea like White Shou Mei Aged 3 Years. For a floral cup, Jasmine Yin Zhen Silver Needle is scented with fresh jasmine blossoms. Flavoured options are in our white tea blends.
White tea FAQ
How do I brew white tea?
Use a generous 2 teaspoons of leaves per 250 ml cup, because the leaves are light and fluffy. Water at 77 to 85°C works well. Steep for 3 to 5 minutes; white tea rarely turns bitter, so you can steep it longer for more flavour.
What is the difference between Silver Needle and White Peony?
Silver Needle (Bai Hao Yin Zhen) is made only from unopened buds and tastes very delicate and sweet. White Peony (Bai Mu Dan or Pai Mu Tan) includes the bud plus one or two leaves, which gives a fuller, slightly more floral cup.
Does white tea have caffeine?
Yes. White tea comes from the same plant as green and black tea, so it contains caffeine. Bud-heavy teas like Silver Needle can contain as much as other teas, so it is not a caffeine-free choice.
Can white tea be aged?
Yes. Pressed or loose white tea, especially Shou Mei, can be aged for years. Aging turns the flavour sweeter and deeper, with notes of dates, honey and dried fruit.
How do you drink white tea?
Drink it plain to enjoy its light, sweet flavour. Use about 2 teaspoons of the fluffy leaves per cup, water at 80–85°C, and steep 3–5 minutes.
What does white tea taste like?
White tea is delicate and smooth, with notes of honey, melon and fresh flowers. Silver Needle is the most subtle; White Peony is fuller.