The Gentle Power of White Tea

The Gentle Power of White Tea

Ready to learn more about white tea? In this blog, we explore the origins, preparation methods, and health benefits of this refined tea.

Vrolijke vrouw met een lichte blouse houdt trots een grote glazen pot met theeblaadjes vast.

Door Kirsten

White tea, subtile and delicate

White tea is one of the most subtle tea varieties out there, known for its light and delicate flavor. In this blog from Het Kleinste Huis, we explore what white tea is exactly, where it comes from, and why it's a popular choice among tea enthusiasts. We'll also cover the best way to brew white tea and the health benefits it offers.

"The fragrance of white tea is the feeling of existing in the mists that float over water..."    - C.JoyBell C."

What is white tea?

White tea is made from the youngest and most tender leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike black or green tea, white tea undergoes the fewest processing steps. It mainly involves the careful picking and gentle drying of the leaves, preserving their natural properties as much as possible.

Close-up of bright green leaves with yellow edges on a tea plant.

The origin of white tea

White tea originates from the Fujian province of China, where this unique type of tea has been cultivated for more than a thousand years. The harvest period is between mid-March and mid-April. The tea leaves and buds are handpicked. The leaves and buds are often still covered with fine, silvery or white down, which also explains the name white tea.

Close-up of a person's fingers holding a dried white tea leaf with vibrant green tea leaves in the background.

Does white tea contain caffeine?

Although white tea contains caffeine, the amount is generally lower than in black or green tea. The exact amount can vary depending on the cultivation method and processing method, but white tea is known as an excellent option for those looking for a milder caffeine boost.

Tea being poured into a cup, capturing the golden hue of white tea against a wooden serving board.

How does white tea taste?

The taste of white tea is often described as light, sweet, and subtle. Some varieties offer hints of fruit, nuts, or floral tones, resulting in a refreshing and soothing experience. The exact flavor profiles vary by type and harvest, making each tea unique.

Is white tea good for your health?

White tea is highly valued for its health-promoting properties. Rich in antioxidants, it can help protect against free radicals, support the immune system, and contribute to healthy skin. While it's not a cure-all, white tea is a delightful addition to a balanced lifestyle.

A smiling woman in a floral cardigan holding a white teacup and saucer.

How to brew white tea?

Brewing white tea requires attention and care to bring out the delicate flavors. Use filtered water and heat it to about 80 degrees Celsius. Give the tea leaves enough space to unfold and let them steep for 2 to 3 minutes for an optimal flavor experience. The art of brewing white tea lies in the simplicity and respect for the leaf.

Why not boiling water?

A crucial aspect of brewing white tea is the water temperature. Water that is hotter than 80 degrees Celsius can scorch the delicate tea leaves, resulting in a bitter taste. Maintaining a lower temperature ensures that the subtle and refined flavors of the white tea fully emerge.

Close-up of a steaming tea kettle with a focused view on the spout, showing steam rising against a blurred background.

Try the white tea collection from Het Kleinste Huis!

Now that you know more about white tea, we invite you to make your own selection from our collection. Het Kleinste Huis offers a diverse range of white teas, perfect for every taste and occasion. You're sure to find what you're looking for with us. 

Our collection includes a variety of pure white tea types as well as blends. White tea is known for its soft, subtle flavor profile. This makes it an excellent base for blends because it does not overpower the added flavors, such as fruit, herbs, or flowers. On the contrary, it provides a delicate background that allows other flavors to come forward. 

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the quality and taste of our white tea for yourself. Check out our collection today and discover your new favorite tea. Start your tea experience with Het Kleinste Huis.

Pure white tea types from Het Kleinste Huis

White tea blends from Het Kleinste Huis

For a large part of her life Kirsten has had a passion for entrepreneurship and tea. Since 2014, she has been combining this with her husband, Niels, in the tea specialty store Het Kleinste Huis (The Smallest House in Amsterdam). Kirsten likes to write about things that keep her busy (this doesn't have to be just tea!).

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