What Makes White Tea Special

May 13, 2025

What is White Tea?

White tea is the most delicate and least processed of all tea types. Made from young buds and leaves, it’s simply withered and dried—no rolling or pan-firing. This minimal processing locks in its natural sweetness and floral aroma.

Rarity : White tea is rare because it's harvested briefly in early spring, using only young buds from select regions like Fujian and Darjeeling. Minimally processed and handpicked, its delicate nature limits mass production and adds to its exclusivity. This makes every cup a truly seasonal and special experience.

Types of Popular White Tea -

Silver Needle - Made only from the youngest unopened buds. Lightest and most prized white tea

White Peony - A mix of buds and young leaves. Slightly fuller flavour—floral, fruity, and refreshing

Darjeeling Moonshine - Grown in high-altitude Indian estates. Delicate yet complex, with hints of peach and muscatel.

Tasting Notes - 

  • China (especially Fujian): Light, floral, and mellow. Notes of honey, melon, or hay. Often what people think of as “classic” white tea.
  • India (like Darjeeling): Brighter and more aromatic. Slight muscatel notes, sometimes citrusy or grassy.
  • Nepal: Can be bolder. Slightly woody or nutty, with a thicker body.

Steeping Time & Temperature - 

  • Silver Needle - 75–80°C (167–176°F), 3 - 5 mins
  • White Peony - 80–85°C (176–185°F), 2 – 4 minutes
  • Darjeeling Moonshine - 80–85°C (176–185°F), 2 – 3 minutes

Why Is White Tea So Expensive ?

White tea is expensive due to its labor-intensive harvesting, where only the youngest buds are handpicked with care. Its short harvest window and limited supply create high demand among tea connoisseurs.


brewing tipstea brewingtea extractiontea leavestea preperationteawareWhite Tea

by Sidhant Prakash – May 13, 2025

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