Rare teas and grand cru teas

What makes a tea exceptional?

A grand cru tea is distinguished by its precise geographical origin, specific growing conditions, and artisanal processing method. Our rare teas come from exclusive gardens where annual production sometimes amounts to only a few dozen kilograms. This rarity, combined with meticulous picking techniques—often limited to buds and the first two leaves—gives these teas aromatic profiles of remarkable complexity.

The exceptional terroirs of our selection

Our collection takes you on a journey to discover the world's finest tea gardens. From China with its Lung Ching Superior with fruity and sweet notes, to Japan with the delicate Gyokuro Kusanagi that gradually reveals itself on the palate, each origin unveils its unique personality. India offers us its prestigious first flush Darjeeling SFTGFOP1, while South Korea surprises us with the rare Woojeon Green, grown on the volcanic island of Jeju.

How to choose your exceptional tea?

Selecting a grand cru tea requires taking into account several criteria that will guide your choice toward the tasting experience that suits you.

According to your taste preferences

Green tea enthusiasts will turn to our premium Japanese Sencha or delicate Chinese teas like Mao Feng Hua Hai. For black tea lovers, our Assam SFTGFOP1 and first harvest Darjeeling reveal powerful and floral characters. The curious will discover rare Oolongs like Java Halimun Jade, with complex notes of intermediate oxidation.

The importance of freshness and preservation

Our rare teas are packaged in airtight sachets that preserve their delicate aromas. The freshness of the harvest plays a determining role in the expression of flavors, which is why we rigorously select our supplies from trusted producers.

The art of preparing exceptional teas

Each grand cru tea deserves preparation that respects its characteristics. Water temperature, infusion time, and dosage are all parameters that influence the revelation of aromas.

The secrets of a perfect infusion

White teas like our hand-rolled Jasmine Pearls require water at 75-80°C to preserve their floral delicacy. Japanese green teas flourish between 60 and 70°C, while our aged Pu Erh can withstand simmering water that reveals all the depth of their maturation.

Frequently asked questions about grand cru teas and rare teas

Our customers regularly ask us questions about these exceptional teas. Here are the answers to the most common queries.

What is the difference between a grand cru tea and a rare tea?

A grand cru tea is defined by its exceptional quality linked to its terroir, growing method, or specific processing. A rare tea is characterized by its limited production, often due to particular geographical conditions or exclusive artisanal techniques. Some teas combine both qualities, like our Gyokuro Kusanagi, which is both a grand cru due to its shade-growing method and rare due to its restricted production.

How do I store my exceptional teas?

Store your rare teas in a dry place, away from light and strong odors. Our airtight sachets guarantee optimal protection. Once opened, transfer them to an airtight metal tin to preserve their delicate aromas as long as possible.

How many cups can I prepare with 50g of tea?

With a 50g sachet, you can prepare approximately 25 to 30 cups, depending on the dosage used. For our grand cru teas, we recommend 2g per cup to fully reveal their complex flavors. Some teas, like Oolongs, withstand multiple successive infusions, thus multiplying the number of possible tastings.

Our commitment to authentic exceptional teas

At Thés & Traditions, we prioritize direct relationships with producers to offer you authentic and traceable rare teas. Our selection, predominantly organic, respects centuries-old traditions while supporting sustainable agriculture. Each tea in our collection tells a story—that of a terroir, a know-how, and a passion passed down from generation to generation.