White tea is obtained from unoxidized and uncured leaves that have not yet opened fully and the buds are still covered in fine, silky white threads. Another name for these young teas is silver needle because of the fine threads. Oolong and black teas are partially and fully fermented respectively, while leaves destined to be green are steamed to halt the oxidation process.

Due to the way the young leaves are harvested and handled, they contain the highest levels of powerful catechins and more antiviral/antibacterial properties than their green fraternal twin.

Also, because white tea is made from young buds and leaves, it is purported to contain more of the mood enhancing and relaxing amino acid theanine than green, black or oolong teas which are produced from older, less tender leaves.

The flavor profile for this antioxidant-packed brew is very light and slightly sweet. It lacks the herbaceous grassiness of its green counterpart and less caffeine as well. Because it is one of the rarest types of teas available, expect to pay substantially more for quality loose leaves.

But indulge yourself!

Throw caution to the wind because the experience of enjoying a delicious, fresh-tasting, warm cuppa is worth the extra cost of quality loose leaves.

Premium quality white tea leaves can be brewed several times before retiring them—so the old adage “you get what you pay for” has never been truer than in this instance . Use about two teaspoons of leaf per cup of water and allow to steep for approximately 3 minutes. Water is extremely important when brewing teas and can make or break your brew. The temperature of the water should be hot, but not at the boiling point for steeping these particular delicate teas. Excessive heat will cause the volatile essential oils present in the leaves to dissipate before you can even benefit from them. Not to mention, the heat can destroy or even alter the phytochemicals that make these beverages so healthful.

Higher quality leaves actually develop in flavor and complexity with slightly prolonged steeping. They can benefit from brewing for 10 minutes to allow them to completely reach their full flavor potential.

Lesser quality grades of leaf will more than likely produce a bitter brew and often develop off flavors with prolonged steeping, while premium loose white tea leaves can be brewed successfully up to three times resulting in several fantastic cups from the same leaves!

With each successive brewing, simply add several minutes to the brew time and extract all the leaves have to offer.

If you’ve never experienced the delicate wonders of these amazingly light and flavorful teas then you must do yourself a favor and try them—you won’t be disappointed!