White Tea
What is white tea?
White tea is one of the least processed forms of tea, prized for its delicate flavour, natural sweetness and soft floral character. Like black, green and oolong tea, it is made from the leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant.
Traditionally associated with China, white tea has a long and distinguished history. Its name comes from the fine, silvery-white hairs that cover the youngest tea buds—not from the colour of the brewed tea.
Our collection brings together carefully sourced white teas ranging from light, subtle styles to fuller-bodied teas with floral and fruity notes. Explore our range and buy premium white tea online in New Zealand.
How is white tea made?
White tea is produced using minimal processing. After harvesting, the leaves and buds are carefully withered and dried, with little or no rolling. Some teas may also receive gentle heat during the final drying stage.
This restrained approach allows the natural character of the leaf to remain at the forefront. Depending on its origin, cultivar and harvest, white tea can offer notes of honey, fresh hay, stone fruit, flowers and soft herbs.
Many premium white teas contain young buds covered in fine hairs called trichomes. Known in Chinese as bai hao, meaning “white hair”, these trichomes protect the tender new growth and give the dry leaves their distinctive silvery appearance.
What does white tea taste like?
White tea is generally delicate, smooth and naturally sweet, although its flavour varies between styles.
White Noise is an approachable introduction to white tea, with a light and easy-drinking character. White Peony is slightly fuller-bodied, offering more pronounced floral and fruity notes while retaining the refinement for which white tea is known.
Despite its gentle flavour, white tea is not necessarily caffeine-free. Its caffeine level varies according to the cultivar, growing conditions, harvest and brewing method.
How to brew white tea
White tea can be enjoyed hot or cold, and quality whole leaves can often be infused several times.
For a balanced cup:
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Use approximately 3–4g of tea leaves per 250mL of water.
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Heat fresh water to around 80°C.
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Infuse for 3–5 minutes, adjusting to taste.
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Re-brew the leaves, extending the infusion time slightly with each steep.
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Enjoy plain to appreciate the tea’s delicate natural flavours.
White tea is forgiving, so feel free to experiment with additional leaves, a longer infusion or cooler water until you find your preferred result.
Stay connected
Join the Noble & Sunday mailing list to hear about new teas, seasonal releases and stories from our growers—and receive a discount on your first order.
If you have a question about our white tea collection, call us on 022 156 7533, email hello@nobleandsunday.co.nz, or contact us through our online enquiry form.
