What Is White Tea? A Simple Guide

What is white tea?

White tea is one of the most delicate tea styles. It is made from young tea leaves or buds that are handled gently and processed less heavily than many black or green teas. The result is a light cup with soft sweetness, subtle aroma and a clean finish.

What does white tea taste like?

White tea is usually gentle rather than bold. Depending on the leaf style, it can taste floral, lightly fruity, honeyed, silky or fresh. It is a good choice when you want a quieter cup that still has character.

Does white tea have caffeine?

White tea naturally contains caffeine, but it is often chosen as a lighter, lower-caffeine style compared with many stronger black teas. Caffeine can vary by leaf, harvest and brewing method.

How do you brew white tea?

Use cooler water, around 75-85C, and steep for 3-5 minutes. White tea can often be re-steeped, especially whole-leaf and pearl styles. If the cup tastes too delicate, add more leaf rather than using boiling water.

Where should I start?

Try White Pearls for a soft, elegant cup that unfurls slowly, White Butterfly for a classic Chinese white tea, or White Cranberry for a fruitier blend.

Browse all signature white teas.