Lest you think I am teasing, I do not simply mean black tea with milk.  "White tea" is a specific type of tea, processed by merely steaming and drying the tea leaves and buds.  In comparison to green, oolong, and black teas which are subjected to withering and various amounts of oxidation, white tea is the least processed tea type.  White tea is also harvested differently in that it is picked from new growth of buds just before the shoots open and consequently contains a larger number of buds than other teas.  These buds typically have fine “silvery” hairs that give the tea leaves the appearance of a white or grey color from which the term “White Tea” may be derived.  The tea itself, however, does not brew white.  Instead it generally brews to a light yellow color.  White tea is generally considered a delicate tea with subtle qualities and often has a slightly sweet flavor. 

Satrupa White Tea

The leaf and bud of Satrupa White Tea are carefully picked from a special selection of plants that have a much larger “bud” than most Assam’s.  The silvery green leaf and bud have a downy appearance and brew to a pale opal white hue with a light, smooth, and refreshing taste. Brew 2 tsp/8 oz. cup at 175º for 4 minutes; 7-9 minutes for 2nd or 3rd steep.

About the Tea Taster

Simpson & Vail are purveyors of fine tea with an on-line store and a retail store.  At Simpson & Vail you will find a wide selection of Teas, Coffees, teaware, and food related items.  If you are in the area of Brookfield, Connecticut stop by and visit them.  Each Saturday from 10 am - 4 pm they offer samplings of 4 teas.  Whether on-line or in-person, Simpson & Vail is a great place to explore new teas or to simply indulge in your long time favorites.