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Organic Silver Needle White Tea

Nectar-like body with notes of honey, a delicate sweetness and no astringency

fair trade certified certified organic
Organic Silver Needle White Tea
$3.25
Orders over $60 ship free in USA
 
 
 
 
 

Organic Silver Needle White Tea

Backyard Compostable Tea Packaging

Silver Needle White Tea is among the most revered Chinese tea, traditionally produced in the mountains of China's Fujian province. Our organic and Fair Trade Certified Silver Needle White Tea is produced in the mountainous region of the nearby Zhejiang Province. It consists of only the most delicate downy buds from the newest growth. The preparation of this organic white tea is governed by strict requirements to ensure a truly premium product. This dedication to perfection is evident in the cup. The pale yellow infusion has a rich, nectar-like body. It yields a light, honeysuckle aroma with a delicate sweetness and smooth, clean finish. This tea is absolutely devoid of astringency.

Ingredients: organic and Fair Trade Certified Chinese white tea

Origin: Yiwu Yueran Organic Tea Professional Cooperative, Zhejiang Province, China

Zhejiang Province Tea Garden

Located in one of the most important provinces of China for tea production and tea culture, the Yiwu Yueran Organic Tea Cooperative consists of approximately 32 rural smallholder member farms. Yiwu (not to be confused with the mountain of the same name in Yunnan) is located in central Zhejiang and known for its beautiful plum blossoms drawing large crowds every February. Zhejiang province boasts an ideal climate for tea production. Its distinct seasons offer a more temperate and less volatile summer than its southern neighbor, Fujian, and greater annual precipitation than the tea growing regions to the northwest. As a result, Zhejiang is renowned for producing some of the highest quality tea in China. It is also the traditional home to several of the most iconic Chinese green tea production styles including long jing (or lung ching), gunpowder, and anji bai cha.

Steeping Instructions

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At Arbor Teas, we believe tea should be brewed to suit your personal taste. We’re happy to make recommendations to get you started, but don’t hesitate to experiment! When brewing your tea, your main considerations are tea quantity, water temperature, and steeping time. We recommend green and white teas to be steeped for 2 to 3 minutes in water heated to not-quite-boiling, just as bubbles begin to form on the bottom of the pan (approximately 170 to 180 degrees F). For the best flavor, use fresh water whenever possible. Try not to steep your tea longer than necessary, as you’ll extract undesirable bitterness from the leaves. If you want a stronger brew, don’t steep longer, just use more tea. And don’t forget to re-steep your tea leaves to get the most out of your leaf!

Looking for more info? Check out our How-To Guides and Eco-Brewing Tips!

Staff Perspectives

  • Chelsea

    "This is what I like to make for friends who claim they don't like tea. I almost always win them over, this is by far one of the best teas I think we carry!"

  • Jeremy

    "This is my favorite white tea, and among my favorites in general."

  • Aubrey

    "A truly exquisite white tea! The thick, nectar-like quality of the brew is outstanding."

Health Benefits

Health Benefits of Tea

Like all true tea, white tea offers many potential health benefits. Research has found that tea (Camellia sinensis) can have many positive effects on human health, including improved cardiovascular function, cancer risk reduction, improved immune function, improved oral health, and help with weight management. Tea is also full of polyphenols, which are a class of antioxidant that help your body maintain homeostasis and balance your stress levels. Researchers have also found that when applied topically, white tea may help prevent wrinkles and protect from sun damage. It’s also been demonstrated that white tea extract can inhibit the production of fat.

For more information about the health benefits of white and other types of tea, and for direct sources of the above information, check out our Tea Health Benefits page!

Please note: the information above is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Customer Reviews

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  • 3
    Light

    Posted by Haley D on 6th Jan 2024

    I brewed this one twice as the first was very very light, brewed bowl style. I did find I got more flavor brewing it with more tea and boiling water. But it still was very light. Pleasant, but not super flavorful to me, I prefer the bai mu dan.

  • 5
    Fabulous...

    Posted by S. C on 21st Sep 2023

    Wonderful silver needle at an absolutely killer price - the leaves are beautiful and the flavor is delightfully fruit forward, and while all of Arbor's lineup is stellar this one in particular tastes far, far more high quality than the exceedingly reasonable price would suggest. As an aged white tea aficionado I find it is a bit young tasting right out of the bag -nice, but a bit one dimensional- but it ages very well under anaerobic conditions and after a month in a airtight jar it starts to take on distinctly aged notes, so even as a gong fu cha snob I couldn't be happier. Quite possibly the best deal on bulk tea I've found anywhere, and an absolute hidden gem whose praises I can't sing loud enough...

  • 5
    A true Fujian Silver Needle

    Posted by AZ on 16th Nov 2021

    This is an exceptional Silver Needle at a great price point. It delivers on the unforgettable honey sweetness and floral nectar notes white teas are famous for. Multiple infusions continue to yield a full delicate flavor without losing anything. I adore white teas and this offering is no different.

  • 5
    Exquisite example of a silver needle white tea

    Posted by Stevie Preis on 23rd Jul 2018

    This tea is very high quality, which you can tell just by looking at it. Very clean as it is a white, but also highly refreshing.

  • 5
    Continue to be surprised by how much I love this tea!

    Posted by Jennifer Hartman on 15th Apr 2018

    This tea has become a favorite, almost against my will :) I don't usually enjoy teas that are so delicate, but something about this silver needle is still very satisfying and grounded despite it's light nature. It's my favorite to do multiple infusions with and my go to tea when I feel like I'm fighting off a cold. Because of the price, however, I tend to only drink it when I have the time to steep it (and re-steep it) properly.

  • 5
    My favorite

    Posted by David on 21st Mar 2018

    It's a bit pricey but worth it! It's my go to tea on weekends or days when I want something a little special and have a few more minutes in the morning. This is because I steep it for up to 10 minutes. It doesn't get bitter and the flavor gets so rich it's drinking honey without the sweetness. My favorite of all teas.

  • 5
    A perfectly sweet and wonderful tea!

    Posted by john hughes on 22nd Feb 2018

    This tea is amazing, its sweet, rejuvenating, and perfect. Sweet perfection. I recommend keeping this around!

  • 5
    Pure Luxury!

    Posted by Rod Chilson on 30th Oct 2017

    This is turning out to be one of the best teas I've had in life. Straight yinzhen, nothing else, so luxurious. The aroma in the cup just promises delights to come. Such a delicate body overall, flavor profile of honey suckle, french vanilla, minerals, absolutely lovely. Not unlike a Viognier wine, curisouly similar flavors going on, so if you're one that enjoys Viognier at home then go to the top of the page and hit add to cart right now. Even if you don't, still hit add to cart now, before I buy it all. Best serving vessel, oddly and this will sound stupid, but it's a matcha bowl, seriouly it's like drinking a floral liquor, you have to try it. I'm brewing in 1.5 liter batches, hitting 190F on brewing temp, and definitely going western style until the needles relax a bit, I think going gung fu style brewing on this would be an injustice. This is a high quality Fujian tea, theanine content obviously quite high, it exhibits a very soothing zen feeling. Have to use RO water to extract properly and not reveal water impurities with such a delicate tea. Overall this is one of the finer things in life, enjoy!

  • 4
    Great White Tea

    Posted by Debbie Shipley on 19th Oct 2017

    This is my first White tea and I must say it is so smooth and delicate. I will definitely be buying this again.

  • 5
    EXCELLENT

    Posted by Izabela J. on 2nd Aug 2017

    I normally drink Japanese Gyokuro, Sencha, and Matcha teas, but - occasionally - I will have black, white or oolong tea. I ordered a sample of this Silver Needle tea along with my last Gyokuro order, and I must say that is by far THE BEST of all black/oolong/white teas I have ever tried. DELICIOUS. Will be ordering a full size bag of this tea with my next order for sure! It has a very delicate, soft, mellow taste - almost sweet all on its own. Perfection.

  • 5
    Wow

    Posted by Barry on 2nd Jun 2017

    I was stunned when tasting this tea for the first time: smooth, delicate, fruity, gently stimulating. It is my favorite of the 3 white teas I test ordered, which also included Makaibari estate and Bai Mu Dan. Thank you for introducing me to fine white tea!

  • 5
    Wonderful new experience!

    Posted by Yen-Wen on 16th Oct 2016

    I love the delicate and smooth taste in my mouth! It's so light and friendly, no trace of bitterness or unpleasant aftertaste what do ever! It's so wonderful, it can be enjoyed any time any day! Certainly a good choice after meal.... Highly recommended!!

  • 5
    Takes Me to the Countryside

    Posted by Johanna on 26th Aug 2016

    I ordered a sample and have a cup beside me as I type. The aroma and taste bring to mind a sunny field of hay and flowers and peach trees. It's a really light and happy experience. This is my second white tea so I'm not sure how it compares to others, but I love it! The initial steep is really super delicate, and the first time I made it I was surprised at how it changed for the next couple.

  • 5
    Remarkable

    Posted by Bill on 4th Feb 2016

    A treasure. We obtained five infusions from one pot, and used both small chinese cups, and taller chimney shaped scent cups. We poured the tea into the scent cup, and then poured the tea from the scent cup into the drinking cup. Then we sniffed the scent cup, and the aroma was amazing, getting fuller and more complex for the first three steepings. citrus and floral, amoth others. The last two infusions were very good, but fading a bit. I am doing a sixth infusion as I speak to see what happens. The taste was also amazing, and evolved in subsequent steepings. Well worth the expense.

  • 5
    Fabulous white tea

    Posted by Jo on 23rd Jan 2016

    This is wonderful stuff - clear and crisp (we drink it iced). I'm not sure it's worth the price that it costs, however, so we'll be saving this one for special deal coupons and such.

  • 5
    The white tea you dream about

    Posted by Lala on 7th Jan 2016

    Very light and subtle dewy nectar of the gods. This was the first white tea I ever tried, and now I'm spoiled because it's the only one I want!

  • 5
    My favorite

    Posted by Christine on 31st Mar 2015

    Arbor has great teas, but this is my ultimate favorite. It has a smooth, almost buttery taste that is so light, I feel like I'm describing a fancy pastry! (But without the heavy sugar hangover, obviously).

  • 5
    This Tea Takes You From Novice to Expert

    Posted by Tammy on 14th Feb 2015

    Ok, I admit it - I have no problem letting tea steep for 10 - 20 min. I also mix teas. Nice strong bold flavors with some extra health benefits...I did this 1x with this tea and thought - what is the big deal, this is just ok. I did a little reading and tried again - this time following the directions (novel idea). WOW - It is truly worth every penny and I wouldn't trade it for the world. It requires me to slow down and truly savor the tea even taking in the smell.

  • 5
    Smooth, light & pleasant

    Posted by Jason Manarchuck on 21st Sep 2014

    This is what I drink at night when I'm winding down. Recently, I was out of town with a full schedule and out of my routine. A friend shared some of this tea with me and I felt like I was reunited with a close friend. You'll enjoy it's light, pleasantness. This is the tea for all occasions.

  • 5
    Amazing

    Posted by Connor on 14th May 2014

    By far the best white tea I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. As many others have eluded to, it has a nectar-like quality. It's fragrance is sweet and floral. The flavor is an exquisite combination of honey and delicate floral notes. Absolutely no astringency as the after-taste is almost as pleasant as the tea itself. Simply marvelous. Will be ordering more.

  • 5
    Only the Best

    Posted by Lala on 22nd Apr 2014

    I buy this tea as gifts. Many people have never tried white tea, and I want them to try the best! This is so light, but it most certainly isn't hot water. It's like nectar of the gods; that seriously is what I think every time I drink it. Treat yourself with a sample size at least!

  • 5
    light and delicate

    Posted by Yen-Wen C. on 10th Apr 2014

    This is really light body tea to me. It's delicate and flavorful. It's good for the days when you don't want any flavoring, this "straight up good tea" can answer days like that. It's certainly soothing and calming to have it when you need a little afternoon break :)

  • 5
    I now love white tea!

    Posted by Joey on 2nd Feb 2014

    This is the first white tea I have tried, but it has certainly hooked me! The flavor is subtle, but delicious! Not to mention the many health benefits this tea brings along with it!

  • 5
    My new favorite tea

    Posted by Sasha on 5th Aug 2013

    I debated purchasing this tea due to the price - but WOW. One of the reviewers used the word "nectar" to describe it and they were right on. Delicate with a hint of sweetness. My new favorite tea hands down.

  • 5
    Excellent White Tea

    Posted by Blake Canter on 20th May 2013

    Although I enjoyed a number of my attempts to brew this tea, it wasn't until the very last serving of my bulk package that I truly brewed it right! It was so good when brewed well that I'm going to have to get more! The trick is using water at about 160 degrees and steeping for only 10 seconds! Surprisingly, a ten second infusion gives a much richer, rounder liquor than when I tried steeping for 5 to 10 minutes. Additionally, infusion after infusion the delicate, earthy-floral aroma remained. I think I got up to ten, full-bodied infusions from the same leaves, which I really appreciate in a tea since I enjoy having many cups -- and even offsets the high price, as one pot of tea could last all afternoon.

  • 4
    Very good, delicate tea

    Posted by Lauren on 22nd Feb 2013

    This tea has a very delicate taste with a nice lingering of floral. I am primarily a black tea drinker, so this tea is a bit weak for me for every day, but it is great as an afternoon drink.

  • 5
    The Best Tea of All Time

    Posted by Juliet on 25th Nov 2012

    I've explored many many kinds of tea, and this by far is the most enjoyable one I've had. It is my "feel good tea". I cannot live without it. Very delicate and slightly sweet. Strongly recommended.

  • 5
    wonderful

    Posted by Unknown on 7th Jun 2012

    A very pleasant white tea. I don't put anything in my teas when drinking them except water. when I run across a tea that needs a little something extra I usually add some organic peppermint leaves. This tea is very pleasant and satisfying by itself. Will be ordering more. Easy to get at least two satisfying steeps from this tea also

  • 5
    One of the Best Teas in the World

    Posted by Lukasz M. on 7th Mar 2012

    Wow! This Silver Needle white tea is one of my favorite teas of all time. It is naturally sweet without any bitter notes of any kind (assuming you steep it correctly). It has a nectar like quality to it that reminds me of fresh honeysuckle. The leaves are long, slender, and needle like and are covered in a beautiful silvery fuzz- not unlike the kief of Silver Haze of a different flora type. Just one word of caution. If you're used to strong, black teas and/or put sugar in your teas, you may be disappointed by the subtle flavor of this tea. It is very delicate and is best enjoyed by those who drink tea plain. I've offered this tea to some of my friends who aren't tea lovers like me and there response was usually the same, "it's good, but tastes like water." They just don't have the palette to enjoy the delicate complexity of the tea. I bought this tea in bulk and will be buying it again shortly. It is hands down one of the best teas in the world in my opinion.

  • 5
    Delicate White Tea

    Posted by Aysia Scheerer on 16th Feb 2012

    This tea is perfect for an evening when you just want to settle down with a book and enjoy a delicate, soothing cup of tea. The flavor of the tea has a slight sweetness/floral aspect, without any bitterness. It is a relaxing tea, which makes it perfect for drinking in the afternoon. This is one of my favorite white teas.

  • 5
    My favorite tea.

    Posted by A on 3rd Oct 2011

    I love this tea. It's absolutely my favorite out of all that I've tried (white, green and oolong.) It's sweet and if you've ever wondered what "pretty" tastes like- this is it. It just tastes pretty, and it will make you smile with its sweet floral soothing feeling.

  • 5
    The Best White Tea I've Ever Had

    Posted by W on 21st Sep 2011

    This is fantastic tea. It is distinct among white teas, because it is only the bud of the plant (needle) instead of the top two leaves and the bud. It is very delicate, so I like to steep it in a slightly unconventional manor, by using water just short of boiling and steeping for at least 3-4 minutes. It never gets bitter; it isn't out of the ordinary for me to steep the leaves a few times. Purists will wag their fingers at this, but I like to mix in a green tea with it every once in a while (when I need either a little more caffeine or mouth-feel). As a side note, I feel like Theanine levels in this tea are probably very high (L-Theanine is a non-essential amino acid found in tea leaves that promotes relaxation through lowered heart rate and expansion of the vessels). I feel even more relaxed than I usually do after a cup of tea when I drink the white needle. Over all you can't go wrong with this tea. I know it's a little pricey, but trust me it's worth it!

  • 5
    Great!

    Posted by Unknown on 24th Jan 2011

    I have to admit I am new to teas so I don't know all of the lingo and such but I wanted to start drinking teas as a step toward better health. After doing some research I was lead to white teas specifically organic loose leaf. I just received my first order of this tea and I love it. It's not a real strong taste/flavor but it has just enough "sweetness" to it that I can enjoy it (having had some bitter teas in the past that turned me away from tea I was quite pleased by this one). Definitely recommend...thank you Arbor Teas (especially the owners they were quick and friendly in their response to a tea related question I had)!

  • 5
    Stephanie

    Posted by Stephanie on 22nd Apr 2009

    This is my favorite tea! So delicate and sophisticated! I love to mix it with gyokuro in the morning for the ultimate luxurious tea!!

  • 5
    Life is good

    Posted by Bill Edwards on 16th Dec 2007

    It took two sample orders and Jeremy's expert advice for me to brew this tea right. The sample looks like it is enough for 4 servings but it really is two. But it was worth the effort. If I had only one word to describe silver Needle white it would be "luscious." Not a word I ever associated with tea before. Not exactly sweet but I guess those are the taste buds that are activated--certainly no bitterness. There is a satisfying smoothness that my mouth wants to savor. This is a stand alone tea--the kind that calls for a time out from other activities.

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