Organic White Tea

White Tea: A Wonder of the Tea World

A jewel of tea culture, white tea captivates enthusiasts with its rarity and refinement. Originating from China's Fujian province, this exceptional brew stands apart for its minimalist production method and its unique sensory qualities. Let's explore the subtle world of this fine tea, a true treasure from nature.

What Is White Tea?

Like its green, black and oolong cousins, white tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant, yet it is defined by the lightest processing of them all. Made primarily from silvery buds and young leaves, it undergoes just two stages: withering and drying. This gentle process preserves the plant's natural character, yielding an infusion of delicate aromas and remarkable qualities. White tea takes its name from the fine white down that covers the buds at harvest time. This downy coat, known in Chinese as "bai hao", gives the tea its distinctive silvery appearance.

The Different Varieties of White Tea

• Bai Hao Yinzhen (Silver Needle): the most prized of all white teas, made entirely from young buds. A subtle cup with a smooth, mellow flavour, floral notes and a pleasant gentle astringency.
• Pai Mu Tan or Bai Mu Dan (White Peony): a harmonious blend of buds and young leaves. A more complex aromatic profile, with fruity and herbaceous nuances.
• Gong Mei: composed mainly of leaves, with a more pronounced flavour and a slightly deeper liquor.
• Shou Mei: a more robust variety that includes mature leaves. Earthy in character, with a darker infusion.
• Flavoured white tea: naturally scented with fruit, flowers or spices.
• Fruity white tea: indulgent blends with exotic fruits, wonderful served as iced tea.
• Imperial white tea: a vintage grand cru in a luxury format, perfect for special occasions.

Our Selection of Organic White Teas

Our house brings together around fifteen white teas, from China's finest imperial grand crus to contemporary fruity blends. Here's a guide to help you find your perfect match:

• Pure grand crus: the prestigious Yin Zhen (Silver Needle), the delicate Pai Mu Tan, the Anji Bai Cha and the Snow Dragon.
• World origins: the Vietnamese Mao Feng and the rare Mozambique Silver Tips.
• Fruity flavoured teas: the Peach Passion, the Exotic mango-passion, the Pear, the Redcurrant Raspberry Rose and the Dragon white tea with lychee.
• Floral and indulgent: Jasmine Pearls, Rose Vanilla, Ginger Lemon, along with our signature blends Kunming and Shiyankou.

Where does white tea come from?

White tea has its roots in Fujian Province, in south-east China. This region enjoys a climate and terroir perfectly suited to growing Camellia sinensis. Mist-covered mountains and humid air create ideal conditions for the slow, gentle development of the buds. While China remains the leading producer, other countries such as India (notably Darjeeling), Nepal and Sri Lanka have also begun crafting this exceptional tea. More recently, Vietnam has added its own touch with delicate, fresh white teas, available as organic loose-leaf from specialist suppliers.

How white tea is made

The production process stands out for its simplicity and its respect for the leaf:

1. Harvest: young buds and tea leaves are hand-picked in spring.
2. Withering: the leaves are spread on racks and left to wither in sunlight or in well-ventilated rooms. This stage can last anywhere from 24 to 72 hours.
3. Drying: a gentle drying process stops oxidation. Traditionally done in the sun, it can also be carried out in low-temperature ovens.

How to brew white tea

Brewing white tea calls for a little care to bring out the full delicacy of its aromas. Here are our tips:

• Quantity: 4 to 5 g of tea leaves per 300 ml of hot water (roughly a heaped teaspoon).
• Water: low in minerals, heated to 70–80 °C. Never use boiling water, which can bruise the tender buds.
• Steeping time: 5 to 7 minutes depending on the variety (Yin Zhen can steep a little longer than Pai Mu Tan).
• Re-infusions: the leaves can be steeped 2 to 3 times in succession.
• Iced white tea: cold-brew for 4 to 6 hours in the refrigerator, perfect in summer with a fruity white tea.

The History of White Tea Through the Centuries

• Ancient origins: though enjoyed in China for centuries, white tea was only officially recognized as a distinct category in the 18th century.
• An imperial beverage: during the Song dynasty, it was offered as an imperial tribute, reserved exclusively for the emperor and his court.
• Evolving techniques: in the 19th century, production methods were refined, giving rise to the varieties we know today.
• International recognition: in the 20th century, white tea found its way into export markets and gained worldwide popularity.
• Modern production: China remains the leading producer, but India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam each bring their own distinctive character.

How to Store White Tea

• Airtight container: use an airtight tin or pouch to protect the tea from air and moisture.
• Away from light: opt for an opaque container or a dark cupboard.
• Stable temperature: store in a cool spot at room temperature.
• Away from strong odors: white tea absorbs surrounding scents very easily.
• Best enjoyed: within one year of the harvest, to make the most of its freshness.

Plain or Flavored White Tea: Which Should You Choose?

White tea comes in two broad families. Plain white teas appeal to lovers of fine teas and pure, floral notes (Pai Mu Tan, Yin Zhen). Flavored white teas, such as our Peach Passion (wonderful as an iced tea), our Dragon white tea with lychee, or our fruity blends, offer a more indulgent way in. To go further, take a look at our 75 °C brewing guide or our comparison of green tea vs. white tea.

Your Questions About Organic White Tea

How do I order your organic white tea?
All our white teas are available in 100 g sachets or loose-leaf on this shop, with free delivery in mainland France on orders from €49. Secure payment via Stripe or PayPal.

What is the difference between organic white tea and plain white tea?
Organic refers to how the tea is grown (certified organic farming, without pesticides). Plain refers to the absence of added flavoring. A tea can be both.

Is organic white tea a fine tea?
Absolutely, particularly premium varieties such as Yin Zhen or Pai Mu Tan, which are considered imperial-grade teas.

Can white tea be made iced?
Absolutely. Cold-brew for 4 to 6 hours in the refrigerator, using 8 g per liter. Perfect in summer with a fruity white tea.

Which white tea is best for beginners?
Our organic Pai Mu Tan is the ideal starting point: balanced, approachable, and truly representative of the family.

White tea in tradition

In Chinese culture, white tea has held a place of honour since the Song dynasty (960–1279). Reserved for centuries for the imperial court, it was regarded as an exceptional tea, associated with longevity and refinement. This noble aura explains why, even today, grand crus such as Yin Zhen Silver Needle retain their prestige.

White tea benefits and antioxidants

White tea contains polyphenols, catechins and antioxidants that stem from its minimal processing. These bioactive compounds are the subject of scientific research into their beneficial effects on health and skin radiance. Rich in gentle flavour and moderate caffeine, white tea is a nourishing drink for everyday wellbeing. These properties are part of a broader approach to nutrition and are not a substitute for medical advice. To learn more, visit our guide to the benefits of white tea.

Does white tea contain caffeine?

Contrary to popular belief, white tea does contain caffeine, though generally in smaller amounts than black tea or coffee. The exact level varies depending on the variety, growing conditions and brewing method. On average, a cup of white tea provides around 15 to 30 mg of caffeine, compared to 40 to 70 mg for green tea and 60 to 90 mg for black tea.

Can you drink white tea in the evening?

Thanks to its low caffeine content and delicate profile, white tea makes a lovely evening companion. Its moderate caffeine allows you to linger over a cup without disrupting sleep. Its floral and milky notes make it a soothing drink to close the day, offering a warm alternative to herbal infusions with just a little more character. To explore further, take a look at our page on when to drink white tea.