Tea Blog

How much we enjoy a tea often comes down to what we’re used to.

You can prove this easily by revisiting teas you once disliked—or returning to favorites you haven’t tasted in years. The results can be surprisingly different.

That “Grassy” or “Seaweedy” Green Tea

Many tea drinkers describe certain green teas as tasting like grass clippings or seaweed—and not always as a compliment. I used to feel the same way.

Recently, after trying fresh samples from China and Japan, my perspective changed. What once seemed simply “grassy” now revealed layers of flavor—subtle sweetness, mild floral notes, and a more nuanced character.

Even the seaweed-like quality became appealing, especially when paired with foods like sushi.

Why the change?

• Better growing conditions?
• A more developed palate?
• Greater attention to the tasting experience?

Perhaps a bit of all three—or simply becoming accustomed to these flavors over time.

That “Bitter” Black Tea

Some teas can initially seem challenging:

• Lapsang Souchong can be intensely smoky
• Assam teas may come across as bitter
• Pu-erh can taste deeply earthy

But revisiting these teas with a different approach can make all the difference:

• Lighter steeping can reduce smokiness
• Switching from CTC to higher-quality whole-leaf Assam adds complexity and reduces bitterness
• Brewing pu-erh in a gongfu style reveals smoother, evolving flavors

Sometimes, appreciation comes from adjusting how the tea is prepared—not just enduring the flavor as-is.

That Flavored Tea That Didn’t Quite Work

Flavored teas can be divisive.

For me, many blends—especially those heavy with added fruits, spices, or flowers—tend to mask the tea itself. Over time, flavors may fade, separate, or brew inconsistently.

That said, there are exceptions:

• Masala chais
• Certain fruit blends like
  Sencha Kyoto Cherry Rose Festival
• Reliable favorites like
  Monk’s Blend

Still, I’ve found that as I explore higher-quality teas, I rely less on flavored varieties. The natural complexity of good tea often needs no enhancement.

Bottom Line

Just as people deserve second chances, so do teas.

Revisit old favorites and former disappointments—you may discover something entirely new.

Expanding your palate expands your enjoyment—and your tea journey becomes all the richer for it.

See more of A.C. Cargill’s articles
here.

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