About Our Tea

Where is Hawaiian Royal Tea grown?

All of our tea is grown on our small family homestead in the upper Haʻao Valley of Kaʻu, on the southeastern slopes of Mauna Loa. The region’s cool upland climate, volcanic soil, and clean mountain rain create ideal conditions for producing distinctive Hawaiian loose-leaf tea.

What makes Hawaiian tea unique?

Hawaiian tea carries the unmistakable signature of volcanic terroir. Our plants grow in rich basaltic soil, nourished by pure spring water and cooled by cloud forest mists. This creates teas that are naturally smooth, clean, and aromatic, with a depth you won’t find elsewhere in the world.

How is your tea processed?

We hand-harvest every leaf before crafting our teas in micro-lots. Using traditional and modern artisan methods, we create distinct styles — black, green, oolong, white, and yellow — with careful attention to oxidation, drying, and finishing. Everything is done by hand to preserve the integrity of each batch.

Is your tea organic?

Yes. We use natural, regenerative, no-till farming practices, free of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. While we are not USDA-certified organic (a costly process for small farms), our growing methods follow clean, sustainable principles.

Do you flavor your teas?

No. Our teas are 100% pure Camellia sinensis, with no added flavors or botanicals. Their aroma and taste come entirely from the land, the climate, and our craft.

Brewing & Enjoyment

How do I brew your teas?

Each product page includes detailed brewing instructions, but here are general guidelines:

• Black Tea: 205°F, 3–4 minutes

• Green Tea: 175°F, 1.5–2 minutes

• Oolong Tea: 195°F, 2–3 minutes (re-steep 2–3 times)

• Yellow Tea: 180°F, 2–3 minutes

• White Tea: 175°F, 2–3 minutes

For best results, use filtered water and avoid boiling water on delicate teas.

Can I re-steep your teas?

Yes. Most of our teas — especially oolong, yellow, and white — can be re-steeped multiple times. The flavor profile gently evolves with each infusion.

How should I store my tea?

Keep your tea in an airtight container away from heat, moisture, and light. A pantry or cupboard works best. Properly stored, loose-leaf tea can stay fresh for 12–18 months.

Orders & Shipping

Where do you ship?

We currently ship throughout the United States, including Hawaiʻi and Alaska. International shipping is available upon request — please email us for a quote.

How long does shipping take?

Shipping typically takes:

• Hawaiʻi: 2–4 business days

• Mainland U.S.: 4–7 business days

• Rural locations: May require additional time

You’ll receive tracking information as soon as your order ships.

What is your return policy?

Because tea is a food product, we cannot accept returns. However, if there is an issue with your order, damaged packaging, or a shipping error, please contact us — we’re happy to make it right.

Royal Reserve — Tea of the Month Club

What is The Royal Reserve?

The Royal Reserve is our Tea of the Month Club, offering monthly deliveries of rare Hawaiian teas, tasting notes, behind-the-scenes stories, and access to our private member chat. It’s the best way to experience our small-batch teas year-round.

What do members receive?

Each month includes:

• One new Hawaiian tea (rare, seasonal, or limited micro-lot)

• Exclusive tasting notes and brewing guidance

• Educational content and farm stories

• Access to our private online chat with fellow members

• Occasional surprise samples or early-release teas

Can I cancel anytime?

Yes. Membership is flexible — you can pause, skip a month, or cancel at any time.

Are Royal Reserve teas available outside the club?

Many Royal Reserve selections are exclusive and not sold individually. Some may appear as limited releases during harvest season, but quantities are extremely small.

Wholesale & Partnerships

Do you offer wholesale pricing?

Yes. We partner with select retailers, cafés, boutique hotels, and culinary professionals who value small-batch, premium Hawaiian tea.

Contact: wholesale@HawaiianRoyalTea.com

Can you create custom tea gifts or hospitality amenities?

Absolutely. We offer custom small-batch teas and gift sets for weddings, retreats, corporate gifting, and luxury hospitality partners.

About Visiting the Farm

Can I visit your tea farm?

At this time, our Kaʻū homestead is not open for public tours. However, we are exploring the possibility of future private tastings or educational experiences. Feel free to reach out if you'd like to be notified.

Still Need Help?

We’re always happy to answer questions.
Email: linhartdave@gmail.com
Or use our contact form — we respond within 1–2 business days