We want to share our knowledge of how to brew the perfect cup of tea:

Water
Perfect water isn't necessary, but if water "tastes funny" so will the tea. Simple carbon filtered water, to remove the extra minerals as well as any contaminants, like chlorine, works well.  When water boils, oxygen is released. The Chinese call water that has been boiled "dead water." You can't get the best cup of tea from water that has been repeatedly re-boiled.

Weight
Using too much tea will make your tea bitter and your wallet empty. Too little tea will bring a weak cup and a sense of longing. The volume that is considered the "golden ratio" of leaves to water is one teaspoon of most tea leaves (approx. 3 grams) per 8 ounce cup of water. Please note this is for a traditional 8 ounce cup. Most mugs are around 10 to 12 ounces.

Temperature
Some like it hot. The ideal temperature depends on the tea. Use boiling water (212F) when preparing Black, dark Oolong and Herbal teas. These teas are tough, they can take the burn, and even require it in order to break down the leaf and release the flavor. However, it's important to use cooler water (180F) when steeping more delicate teas, such as Green, green Oolong and White teas.

Time
They say that "time heals all wounds." However, it also makes most teas turn bitter. The rule of thumb is 3-5 minutes for most black teas (depending on your preference for strength) - any longer, and they'll become overly astringent and puckery. Dark Oolong and White teas, on the other hand, are much more forgiving. These teas will taste best when steeped for 3-5 minutes but will still be drinkable if steeped a little longer. For light Oolong and green teas, a little TLC must be employed, steeping for only 2 - 3 minutes, if you're looking for a strong cup.

Equipment
The proper equipment is also very important in the steeping process. When hot water is added, tea leaves can unfurl up to 5 times their dry size. So to make a great tea you need to give your leaves some leg room. If using an infuser basket, use as broad and deep a basket as possible for the pot or cup.

Our Suppliers
We have chosen tea growers that not only provide the finest teas available but are socially responsible. By cutting out the middleman the growers earn greater profits.

Art of Tea: Art of Tea is determined to make sure that every one of their ingredients are sourced from sustainable fair trade practices. Art of Tea is  hands on in the process of assisting several tea estates from around the world become fair trade certified.

Adagio Tea: Created the Roots Campaign
They have traveled to the villages of the tea farmers. It is a fascinating look at the people who have spent their lives cultivating tea around the world. It puts a face on the product. They make direct contributions to the farmers and their communities.

Look at their website, the name above is a link, for an extensive list of health benefits derived from tea.
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