Loose Leaf Tea & Herbal Blends 101
Everything you need to know about what’s in your cup—and how to steep it beautifully
At Savory Blends Tea Co., we believe tea is more than a beverage—it’s a ritual, a moment of pause, and a flavorful journey steeped in history and intention. Whether you’re sipping a bold black tea or a calming herbal blend, understanding what you’re drinking helps you enjoy it even more.
Let’s start with the foundation of all true tea.
The Legendary Camellia Sinensis: One Plant, Endless Possibilities
Ah, Camellia sinensis—the little plant that could. From this single, unassuming shrub comes an entire world of tea: black, green, white, and oolong.
What makes them different? It’s all in the processing.
Whether tea leaves are rolled, oxidized, fired, or gently dried in the sun, each method shapes the tea’s flavor, aroma, color, and personality. From bold and robust to light and delicate, every tea style has its own story to tell.
Here’s a closer look at the teas born from this mighty plant.
Black Tea
Bold, confident, and full-bodied, black tea is fully oxidized—giving it its deep color and rich flavor.
What It Is: Strong and robust, like the friend who always knows what they want
Common Types: Assam, Darjeeling, Orange Black Pekoe, Ceylon, Keemun, and Lychee
Flavor Profile: Malty, earthy, or fruity depending on origin
Brew Tip: Steep for 5–6 minutes at 200–212°F
Pro Tip: Black tea loves a second steep. While the intensity softens, the flavor becomes smoother and subtly sweet
Green Tea
Fresh, vibrant, and lightly processed, green tea captures the essence of spring in every cup.
What It Is: Minimally oxidized to preserve its green color and fresh character
Common Types: Sencha, Gunpowder, Jasmine, Matcha
Flavor Profile: Grassy, nutty, floral, sometimes slightly oceanic
Brew Tip: Steep gently for 3–4 minutes at 160–175°F
Pro Tip: Green tea often shines on the second steep, mellowing into a softer, smoother cup
White Tea
Delicate and refined, white tea is the least processed of all true teas.
What It Is: Lightly handled and naturally elegant—like a whisper of tea
Common Types: Silver Needle, White Peony
Flavor Profile: Soft, floral, and subtly sweet
Brew Tip: Steep for 3–4 minutes at 175–185°F
Pro Tip: A second steep often reveals hidden floral notes and gentle sweetness
Oolong Tea
Complex and expressive, oolong tea sits beautifully between green and black tea.
What It Is: Partially oxidized and full of character
Common Types: Tie Guan Yin, Da Hong Pao
Flavor Profile: Floral, toasty, creamy, fruity, or all of the above
Brew Tip: Steep 3–6 minutes at 185–200°F
Pro Tip: Oolong practically begs for multiple steeps—each infusion evolves like a great conversation
So there you have it.
Black, green, white, or oolong—every tea from Camellia sinensis offers its own adventure. And remember: just because you steeped it once doesn’t mean the leaves are finished. Loose-leaf tea is generous like that.
Herbal Blends: Caffeine-Free (Mostly) & Full of Flavor
Herbal blends are the fun-loving cousins of true tea—colorful, expressive, and not afraid to stand out. Unlike teas made from Camellia sinensis, herbal blends are crafted from herbs, flowers, roots, fruits, and spices and are naturally caffeine-free, with one notable exception: yerba mate.
At Savory Blends Tea Co., we don’t believe in weak herbal tea. Each of our hand-blended herbal teas is packed with pure herbal goodness. Why? Because you deserve the full benefit and flavor of every ingredient.
From soothing chamomile to zesty peppermint and berry-forward blends, every sip is intentionally crafted to support your wellness and elevate your tea experience.
How to Steep Herbal Blends
Herbs are hearty and need time and heat to release their full potential.
Steep for at least 10 minutes
Use 200–212°F water (a rolling boil is perfect)
Second steeps are encouraged—herbal blends still have plenty to give
A Note on Yerba Mate
Yerba mate may not technically be tea, but it does bring caffeine to the party. This South American favorite is smooth, earthy, and naturally energizing—like your morning cup’s adventurous sibling. It’s a great option when you want sustained energy without the jitters.
Whether you’re winding down with a calming herbal blend or energizing your morning with a bold tea, there’s a cup for every mood, moment, and season. And here at Savory Blends Tea Co., every blend is crafted with intention—so you can steep, sip, and savor fully.