RECIPE • 3 Reasons to Choose Loose Leaf Tea over Tea Bags

Comparing quality loose leaf tea to commercially produced tea bags is like comparing French Champagne to a cheap bottle of sparkling wine. By that we mean one sip and you know you're drinking something far superior. The same can be said for loose leaf tea — and here are some of the reasons why.

First, quality loose leaf tea is usually made up of whole leaves. Tea bags, on the other hand, usually contain tea dust, fannings or broken leaves. The essential oils extracted from the larger surface area of a full leaf give the tea a more refreshing, fuller flavour, opposed to tea bags that can produce a dull, flat cup of tea.

Second, loose leaf tea gives the consumer full control over the strength of their tea. Whether you like a strong cup to kick start the day or a lighter, more delicate flavour to finish the day, the choice is up to you. Some tea drinkers enjoy the customisation process of blending their two favourite teas at home and creating a personalised tea experience.

Finally, nothing is more soothing or relaxing than the ritual of making a pot of tea. The process of making a pot, taking the time to allow your tea to steep, and the ceremony of enjoying a freshly brewed pot — either by yourself or with someone else — give a moment of calm and routine to our busy lives.

We hope you can find the time this week to enjoy a really beautiful pot of loose leaf tea.