What Is Loose Leaf Tea (And Why It Matters)

Loose leaf tea is exactly what it sounds like — whole or partially whole tea leaves that are not confined to a bag.

But the difference goes deeper than packaging.

When tea leaves have room to expand in water, they release their natural oils, layered flavors, and aroma fully. The result is a cup that feels rounded, expressive, and complete.

Traditional tea bags often contain smaller broken particles. These brew quickly, but they rarely offer depth or nuance.

Loose leaf tea invites a slower process.

You measure.
You heat the water intentionally.
You steep with attention.

It’s not about complication.
It’s about presence.

The shift is subtle — but once you experience it, it’s noticeable.

The first pour is not just tea.
It’s the beginning of your pause.

The First Pour Collection arrives this April.

How to Measure Loose Leaf Tea (Without Overthinking It)

One of the most common questions about loose leaf tea is simple:

“How much do I use?”

For a standard 8 oz cup, the answer is approximately 3 grams of tea.

That equals about one rounded teaspoon for most blends.

In the First Pour Collection, each pouch contains 10 grams — enough for roughly 3 to 4 cups depending on your preferred strength.

You don’t need a digital scale to enjoy loose leaf tea.

Precision is helpful, but not required. That’s why we provide clear steep guidance — so the ritual feels simple and approachable.

If you prefer a lighter cup, use slightly less.
If you enjoy something bolder, add a touch more.

Tea is forgiving.

The goal isn’t perfection.
It’s enjoyment.

Experience the ritual this April.

Why Water Temperature Changes Everything

Tea leaves are sensitive.

The temperature of your water directly affects how flavor is released.

Green and white teas prefer lower temperatures — typically between 170–185°F.
Black and herbal teas thrive closer to boiling.

Water that is too hot can draw out bitterness from delicate leaves.
Water that is too cool can leave the flavor muted.

If you don’t own a temperature-controlled kettle, a simple guideline works beautifully:

• For green or white tea, let boiling water rest for 1–2 minutes before pouring.
• For black and herbal tea, use freshly boiled water.

Small adjustments create noticeable differences.

Not because tea is complicated —
but because it is intentional.

When you pay attention to temperature, you’re honoring the leaf.

And honoring the leaf changes the cup.