Jasmine green tea is one of the most popular floral teas in the world. It’s appreciated for its floral aroma and delicate flavor. For cafés, tea houses, wellness brands, and others looking to expand their offerings, understanding what makes this green tea stand out is essential. Learn how to ensure you’re providing customers with a product that delivers on quality, flavor, and value.
What is authentic jasmine green tea?
Authentic jasmine tea is made through a meticulous scenting process that sets it apart from more mass-produced alternatives. Instead of using artificial flavorings or oils, true jasmine green tea is scented with freshly harvested jasmine blossoms.
First, the green tea leaves are harvested and dried; they’re often sourced from Chinese provinces like Fujian, Guangxi, or Hunan. Then, they’re layered with the jasmine flowers and left to sit overnight. The tea leaves absorb the fragrance, giving the tea its signature floral aroma. Producers can also repeat this process multiple times by replacing old blossoms with fresh ones.
Once satisfied, the producer removes the remaining flowers. This leaves behind a tea with a fresh, subtly sweet flavor profile that’s delicate, but not perfumey. Compared to artificially scented offerings, which can taste overpowering or bitter, naturally scented jasmine tea offers a smoother and more nuanced experience.
Why Authenticity Matters
There are many mass-produced jasmine teas on the market which are artificially scented. While these can smell great, they lack the depth and flavor of traditionally scented teas. By offering authentic jasmine tea, you provide your customers with a superior product that showcases the craftsmanship of its producers.
When sourcing jasmine tea, try asking about the following:
1. What region is the source of the green tea leaves?
2. Were the leaves scented with real jasmine flowers?
3. How many times has the tea been scented?
Lastly, good jasmine tea will typically have little to no blossoms as they’re removed after the scenting process.
Final Thoughts
Choosing authentic jasmine green tea is a simple way to showcase quality that your customers can taste and appreciate. If you partner with the right importer, you can ensure consistency for your tea program by providing your customers with offerings that will keep them coming back for more.
