What is the return policy?

Most unopened items in new condition and returned within 90 days will receive a refund or exchange. Some items have a modified return policy noted on the receipt or packing slip. Items that are opened or damaged or do not have a receipt may be denied a refund or exchange. Items purchased online or in-store may be returned to any store. Online purchases may be returned via a major parcel carrier. Click here to initiate a return.

How long does it take to process a refund?

We will reimburse you for returned items in the same way you paid for them. For example, any amounts deducted from a gift card will be credited back to a gift card. For returns by mail, once we receive your return, we will process it within 4–5 business days. It may take up to 7 days after we process the return to reflect in your account, depending on your financial institution's processing time.

What is the policy for late/non-delivery of items ordered online?

Our local teams work diligently to make sure that your order arrives on time, within our normaldelivery hours of 9AM to 8PM in the recipient's time zone. During busy holiday periods like Christmas, Valentine's and Mother's Day, we may extend our delivery hours before 9AM and after 8PM to ensure that all gifts are delivered on time. If for any reason your gift does not arrive on time, our dedicated Customer Service agents will do everything they can to help successfully resolve your issue. Click here to complete the form with your order-related question(s).

When will my credit card be charged?

We'll attempt to securely charge your credit card at the point of purchase online. If there's a problem, you'll be notified on the spot and prompted to use another card. Once we receive verification of sufficient funds, your payment will be completed and transferred securely to us. Your account will be charged in 24 to 48 hours.

Will I be charged sales tax for online orders?

Local and State sales tax will be collected if your recipient's mailing address is in: Arizona California Colorado

Tea

April 29, 2023

Tea Cupping: The Art and Science of Tasting Premium Tea

Have you ever wondered how tea experts determine the quality of your favorite loose-leaf brew? The secret lies in a fascinating process called tea cupping—a professional tasting method that evaluates tea for flavor, aroma, and overall excellence.

Whether you're a casual tea drinker or a devoted connoisseur, understanding tea cupping can deepen your appreciation for every sip. Let’s explore what it is, why it matters, and how it ensures you’re getting the best tea possible.

What Is Tea Cupping?

Tea cupping is the systematic tasting and evaluation of loose-leaf tea to assess its quality. Much like wine tasting, it’s both an art and a science, used by tea masters, suppliers, and serious enthusiasts worldwide.

Since tea leaves can vary—even within the same batch or garden—cupping helps maintain consistent quality and flavor. Reputable tea sellers cup every imported chest of tea, ensuring that what reaches your cup is nothing short of exceptional.

Why Is Tea Cupping Important?

1. Ensures Premium Quality

Not all teas are created equal. Factors like harvest time, processing methods, and storage conditions affect taste. Cupping identifies subtle differences, guaranteeing only the best teas make the cut.

2. Enhances the Tea-Drinking Experience

Knowing that your tea supplier cups their products adds trust and enjoyment to every brew. You can sip confidently, knowing experts have vetted your tea for excellence.

3. Helps You Discover Your Perfect Tea

By comparing similar teas side by side, cupping highlights differences in flavor, aroma, briskness, and body. This helps you choose teas that match your personal taste preferences.

How Does Tea Cupping Work? (A Step-by-Step Example with Black Tea)

While methods vary, here’s a general look at how professionals cup tea:

Observe the Dry Leaves – Experts examine the appearance, size, and uniformity of the leaves. High-quality tea should have whole, unbroken leaves with a vibrant color.
Smell the Aroma – Before brewing, the dry leaves are sniffed to detect freshness and fragrance—whether floral, fruity, smoky, or malty.
Steep the Tea – Using precise measurements, the tea is brewed at controlled temperatures and times to extract its true character.
Evaluate the Liquor – The brewed tea’s color, clarity, and brightness are assessed. A rich, clear liquor often indicates superior quality.
Taste and Compare – The taster sips, slurps (to aerate the tea), and notes flavors, aftertaste, mouthfeel, and balance. Multiple teas may be compared to identify the best.
Inspect the Wet Leaves – After steeping, the leaves reveal more about processing and quality—bright, intact leaves suggest careful handling.

Final Thoughts: Why Tea Lovers Should Care About Cupping

Tea cupping isn’t just for industry experts—it’s a practice that elevates your tea experience. By choosing suppliers who rigorously cup their teas, you ensure every cup is flavorful, aromatic, and satisfying.

Next time you enjoy a premium loose-leaf tea, take a moment to savor its nuances. Who knows? You might just develop a cupping ritual of your own!

Have you ever compared teas side by side? Share your tasting experiences in the comments below! 🍵✨

Tea