uma_martinez•8d agoProlific Poster

Rant: Wasted $60 on a fancy tea sampler that tasted like cardboard

I bought this 'artisan' tea sampler from a shop on Elm Street last month, thinking I'd treat myself during my afternoon breaks. Total ripoff - every single blend was stale and flavorless, even the Earl Grey I usually love. How do you guys find good tea online without spending a fortune on fancy packaging? I need some real recommendations before I waste more money.

3 comments

3 Comments

charles4426d ago

So did you actually go through the whole sampler or just open a couple bags before you gave up? Sometimes the first brew is weak but the second one turns out completely different if you adjust the water temp or steep time. I've had luck with plain old Twinings on Amazon if you just want consistent flavor without the hype.

sethhernandez8d agoTop Commenter

That "tasted like cardboard" part hits hard - I used to think all loose leaf was just overpriced hype, but man you just proved me wrong. Hope you find something good soon.

the_hayden8d ago

Elm Street's tea shop? I walked past that place last week and the owner tried to sell me a $45 tin of "smoked lapsang" that smelled like a campfire and a wet sock had a baby. Maybe it's just me but $60 for a sampler they probably bagged up from the bulk bin at a wholesaler is a crime. I'd check out Adagio or maybe local Asian markets if you want decent tea without the pretty box markup. At this point I'd be surprised if your "artisan" tea wasn't just repackaged Lipton with a fancy label on it.