learn the fundamentals of tea

Green Tea 101 | History, Processing, and Health Benefits
  • by Zoë Maiden

Green Tea 101 | History, Processing, and Health Benefits

History of Green Tea Green tea originated in China, tracing back to 2737 BC. The discovery occurred accidentally when the Chinese Emperor Shennong mistakenly drank water with a dead tea leaf boiled inside. He found the flavor refreshing; thus, a...

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Japan | A Historical Tea Origin
  • by Cameron Dodd

Japan | A Historical Tea Origin

Though tea didn’t originate in Japan, it has become an enduring part of Japanese culture. While it may not produce the same volume as other countries, Japan’s treatment of tea is unmatched in terms of quality and cultural significance. Japanese...

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Honeybush Tea 101 | History and Processing
  • by Cameron Dodd

Honeybush Tea 101 | History and Processing

History of Honeybush Tea In the world of tea, Honeybush stands out. Not just for the unique, honey-like aroma that emanates from its yellow flowers (where it gets its name), but also for the plant it comes from. Unlike black,...

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South Africa | An Underdog Region Making an Impact with Their Indigenous Teas
  • by Zoë Maiden

South Africa | An Underdog Region Making an Impact with Their Indigenous Teas

When one thinks about the origins of tea, countries like China and India will often come to mind. During our journey of tea origins, we have discovered many other less known countries that have established delicious tea and created successful...

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South America | Tea & the Unique Origin of Yerba Maté
  • by Cameron Dodd

South America | Tea & the Unique Origin of Yerba Maté

South America has a wide range of climates, from tropical rainforests to freezing mountaintops. Of these diverse climates, there are actually many areas that can support growing the Camellia sinensis plant–the plant that gives us tea! However, South America is...

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Oolong Tea 101 | History, Processing & Health Benefits
  • by Cameron Dodd

Oolong Tea 101 | History, Processing & Health Benefits

Somewhere between black tea and green tea you’ll find the wonder that is oolong tea. Oolong is a tea in the truest, most traditional sense since it comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. But due to its unique processing method, it sits...

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What is a Pure Tea?
  • by Matt Kellso

What is a Pure Tea?

Tea, at its finest, is an expression of place and craft, shaped by elevation, soil, climate, and the hands that guide each leaf from plant to cup. Pure Teas are single-origin selections sourced directly from artisan producers, teas that showcase what's possible when skilled growers apply generations of knowledge to exceptional raw material.

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Tasty Teas For Your Thanksgiving Day!
  • by Zoë Maiden

Tasty Teas For Your Thanksgiving Day!

When we think of Thanksgiving, we often think of family and traditions. From filling our bellies with secret family recipes to tossing a football in the front yard, each tradition is unique and holds a special place in our hearts....

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Brewing Tea for the Colder Season
  • by Zoë Maiden

Brewing Tea for the Colder Season

Here at Hackberry, we love it when the seasons change. As the weather gets cooler we tend to reach towards warmer drinks. A good cup of hot tea releases the full flavor of your tea of choice and allows you to...

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Why Temperature and Time is so Crucial in Tea Brewing
  • by Jonathan Kellso

Why Temperature and Time is so Crucial in Tea Brewing

This blog post marks the beginning of a new series that we here at Hackberry are introducing: “Tea Brewing Tips and Tricks.” This series will revolve around the “dos and don’ts” of tea brewing, breaking down specific nuances and recipes...

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blog graphic for Hackberry education: reads "english - irish - breakfast a breakdown of the breakfast teas""
  • by Cameron Dodd

English, Irish, and Scottish Breakfast Tea

Drinking hot tea has been a longstanding tradition in Europe, specifically in the United Kingdom. English, Irish, and Scottish breakfast teas have been a staple for many households for their bold flavors and tannin levels. Breakfast teas were produced to...

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Tea Brewing 101 | White Tea
  • by Zoë Maiden

Tea Brewing 101 | White Tea

What is White Tea? Like all tea, white tea originated from the Camellia sinensis plant found in China. This particular tea was discovered around the 11th century and was considered the finest and most delicate of teas. The main difference...

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