Would we enjoy a fragrant, floral green tea that balances refreshment with a gentle sweetness?
Overall impression
We found English Tea Shop Organic Jasmine Green Tea Loose Leaf, 30 g to be a pleasantly aromatic and easy-going green tea that suits a range of occasions. From first sniff to the last sip, it presents a harmonious combination of Ceylon and Chinese green teas wrapped with jasmine and elderflower notes. Our experience was one of subtlety rather than intensity — this is a tea for those who prefer floral grace over aggressive astringency.
Product snapshot
Below we present a concise breakdown of the essential product details so we can refer back to them quickly. This table summarises what the product contains, its size and key selling points.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Product name | English Tea Shop Organic Jasmine Green Tea Loose Leaf, 30 g |
| Tea type | Green tea (Ceylon and Chinese) |
| Flavouring | Jasmine and elderflower |
| Format | Loose leaf in pyramid bags |
| Net weight | 30 g |
| Packaging | Compostable tea boxes and outer packaging |
| Pyramid bag material | Polyester (GMO-free and recyclable) |
| Organic status | Organically grown components (as per product naming) |
| Ideal water temp | 75–85°C (approx.) |
| Steeping time | 2–3 minutes (typical for green tea) |
| Intended mood/time | Everyday drinking — light, fresh and floral |
Packaging and sustainability
We appreciated that English Tea Shop has considered sustainability in the packaging and presentation of this product. The outer tea boxes and packaging are fully compostable, which aligns with many of our efforts to reduce household waste. The individual pyramid bags are made from polyester, which is stated to be recyclable, and they are GMO-free. This combination of compostable outer layers and recyclable inner components reflects a balanced approach to eco-conscious packaging.
We do want to be candid about the pyramid bag material: polyester is not compostable, even if the outer box is. Therefore, while we can compost the box, the pyramid bags should be recycled where facilities allow or otherwise disposed of according to local guidance. That said, the use of loose leaf in pyramid form still gives a more open infusion than standard teabags, which we liked.
What we liked about the packaging
We found the design compact and practical, and the compostable box makes storage straightforward. The pyramid bags are roomy enough to allow the leaves to unfurl, improving the infusion and aroma compared with flat teabags.
What could be better
We’d prefer if the pyramid bags were made from fully compostable plant-based fibres, rather than polyester. While polyester can be recycled in some places, that’s less consistent than composting — meaning the environmental benefit may vary by region.
Aroma and appearance
When we opened the box the first time, the floral notes were immediate and pleasant without being overwhelming. Jasmine takes the lead, but elderflower lends a gentle sweetness and depth that prevents the aroma from being one-dimensional. Visual inspection of the dry pyramid bags showed whole-ish leaf fragments rather than dusty fannings, which suggested a better quality of loose leaf.
Once brewed, the liquor presents a pale green-gold colour, clear and inviting. The clarity is a good indicator that the blend avoids excessive processing and that the pyramid bag allows sufficient water flow through the leaves.
Dry leaf observations
We noticed a mix of small whole leaves and larger broken leaves, typical for blended loose-leaf pyramid bags. The jasmine and elderflower scent is evident even before wetting, which promises an aromatic cup.
Wet leaf and liquor
After infusion the leaves looked gently unfurled and released a fresh, floral perfume. The liquor was subtly shimmering with a light body — not heavy, but with a pleasant mouth presence.
Taste and mouthfeel
Our tasting notes focus on balance, body and aftertaste. This blend presents a clean, soft green-tea backbone with jasmine floral top notes and a light elderflower sweetness that lingers pleasantly after each sip. The overall mouthfeel is smooth and moderately viscous for a green tea; there’s no harsh bitterness if brewed within recommended parameters.
We found the jasmine to be fragrant rather than perfumey. Elderflower works as a supporting act, adding a faint, honey-like sweetness without making the tea sweet in the way a sweetened beverage would be. The finish is slightly fragrant and refreshing, which made it suitable for mornings, afternoons and even moments when we wanted a soothing interlude.
Flavour profile breakdown
- Top notes: Jasmine floral, fragrant and clean.
- Middle notes: Green-tea vegetal and fresh, mild grassy undertones.
- Base notes: Elderflower sweetness and a slight honeyed finish.
- Aftertaste: Clean, subtle floral lingering, minimal bitterness.
Sensitivity to brewing
This tea is best brewed with care. Overheating or oversteeping can push it towards astringency, though we always found the elderflower helps to soften any edge. Sticking to 75–85°C and 2–3 minutes gives the best balance.
Brewing guide
We experimented with several brewing methods to find the most reliable approach. Here’s a practical guide we recommend for consistent, enjoyable results.
| Variable | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Teapot / cup | Glass, porcelain or ceramic to preserve temperature and flavour |
| Water temperature | 75–85°C |
| Tea amount | 1 pyramid bag per 200–250 ml / 1 tsp loose leaf equivalent |
| Steep time | 2–3 minutes |
| Reinfusion | Possible once with 1.5–2 minutes; flavour will be milder |
| Sweetener | Optional — honey or a little agave pairs well |
| Milk | Not recommended; milk masks jasmine and elderflower notes |
We prefer gently heated water rather than boiling. Pouring immediately onto the leaves at the right temperature helps preserve the delicate floral aromatics and avoids extracting unwanted bitterness.
Brewing variations we tried
- Short, cooler infusion (75°C, 2 minutes): Light, highly fragrant, very clean.
- Slightly hotter infusion (85°C, 3 minutes): Stronger body, more pronounced green notes but still balanced.
- Long infusion (90°C, >4 minutes): Increased astringency and loss of floral subtlety; not recommended.
Reinfusing notes
We were able to reinfuse the pyramid bag once with acceptable flavour for a second, lighter cup. The second brew emphasised vegetal notes more than floral ones, so we tend to reserve the second steep for when we want a gentler drink.
Ingredients and provenance
The blend combines the finest Ceylon and Chinese green teas. Jasmine flowers are used to scent and flavour the leaves, and elderflower is included to bolster the floral sweetness. The emphasis on Ceylon and Chinese green teas is meaningful: Ceylon green brings brightness and a clean body, while Chinese green tends to contribute more rounded, chestnut-like or vegetal tones.
We appreciated the organic positioning: while the label states organic jasmine green tea, detailed certification should be checked on the box for specific organic accreditations in different markets. The product is marketed as part of English Tea Shop’s “Your Everyday Tea Range,” intended for varied moods and times of day.
Transparency and traceability
English Tea Shop often provides traceability information and certifications on their packaging or website. We advise checking the specific batch or packaging for certification icons if organic certification is essential to you. If provenance and supply chain transparency are priorities, it’s worth investigating further using the code on the box or the brand website.
Health and nutrition notes
Green tea in general is low in calories and contains polyphenols (notably catechins) that are associated with antioxidant activity. Jasmine-scented teas also share similar benefits. As with most unsweetened teas, there’s negligible sugar and calories unless sweeteners are added.
We note:
- Caffeine content: Moderate — green tea contains caffeine, so those sensitive to stimulants should limit intake.
- Antioxidants: Present via green tea catechins and the aromatic compounds from jasmine.
- Additives: No added sugars or artificial flavourings are specified; flavours come from jasmine and elderflower.
Who should avoid it
People with high caffeine sensitivity, or those advised to avoid caffeine for medical reasons, should consume accordingly or choose a decaffeinated alternative. Also, if someone has specific allergies to floral components (rare for jasmine/elderflower but possible), they should exercise caution.
Comparison with similar products
We compared English Tea Shop Organic Jasmine Green Tea against a few other jasmine green options and found a few distinctions. Compared with mass-market scented green teas in paper tea bags, this product uses pyramid bags which allowed better leaf expansion, improving flavour clarity. Against premium loose-leaf single-origin jasmine teas, it sits in a mid-range position: more flavourful and aromatic than economy blends, yet not as intense or specialised as artisanal scents where multiple scenting cycles might be used.
How it stacks up
- Versus supermarket jasmine bags: Superior aroma and flavour due to better leaf quality and pyramid format.
- Versus premium artisan jasmine loose leaf: Less concentrated in jasmine intensity, but more versatile and affordable.
- Versus pure green teas (non-scented): Offers a floral twist that makes it more aromatic and dessert-like without added sugar.
Value for money
We found the 30 g size to be reasonable for those who want to sample the flavour without committing to a large tin. The price per cup compares favourably when you consider the quality of the loose leaf used and the aroma retained in pyramid bags. For daily drinkers, purchasing larger packs or tins (if available) may be more cost-effective; for occasional drinkers, a 30 g pack is convenient and reduces waste.
We also considered the product’s sustainability claims as part of the value proposition. Compostable box and recyclable pyramid bags add non-monetary value, provided local recycling and composting facilities are used.
Cost-efficiency tips from our testing
- Reuse the pyramid bag for a second short infusion.
- Keep the product in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness and avoid having to discard stale leaves.
- Combine with a mild honey for treat cups rather than using sweeteners that mask the natural flavours.
Pros and cons
We summarise the main strengths and limitations based on our hands-on experience.
Pros
- Pleasant, well-balanced jasmine and elderflower aroma.
- Clear, clean liquor and smooth mouthfeel.
- Compostable outer packaging reduces household waste.
- Pyramid bags allow good leaf infusion and aroma release.
- Suitable for morning, afternoon and calming moments.
Cons
- Pyramid bags are made from polyester rather than fully compostable materials.
- 30 g size may be small for heavy daily users.
- Not as intensely scented as some premium artisan jasmine teas.
- Brewing requires attention to temperature and time to avoid astringency.
Who is this tea best for?
We feel this tea suits a wide audience. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a floral, gentle green tea without heavy astringency. It’s also appropriate for people who want an everyday drink that feels a little special — perfect for work breaks, light afternoon refreshments or as a soothing start to a relaxed morning.
This is not aimed at those seeking the strongest caffeine kick or the most intensely aromatic jasmine bomb available. For that market, specialised jasmine teas scented multiple times with fresh jasmine flowers may be preferable. For the majority who want balance, ease of brewing and consistent flavour, this product is well matched.
Serving suggestions
We tested a few variations to see how the tea performs with small culinary additions. The delicate flavours mean strong partners are not suitable, but a few mild accompaniments enhance the experience.
- Plain: Best way to appreciate the floral notes.
- With a touch of honey: Complements elderflower’s sweetness without overpowering jasmine.
- Lemon wedge: Can work but may diminish floral notes; a very small amount of lemon helps if you enjoy citrus balance.
- Iced: Chilled short-brewed and poured over ice makes a refreshing summer drink, though the floral perfume is less pronounced.
Food pairings
Light pastries, fruit-based desserts or mild savoury snacks like cucumber sandwiches match well. We avoided heavily spiced or strongly flavoured foods as they overshadow the tea.
Storage and shelf life
To keep the tea at its best, store the box in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odours. The pyramid bags should remain sealed in the box until use. Given the floral aromatic components, prolonged exposure to air will reduce aroma; proper storage extends the drinking window.
Most dried teas maintain best quality for around 12–18 months if stored correctly, though aromatic intensity can fade sooner. We recommend paying attention to the best-before date on the packaging.
Frequently asked questions
We compiled answers to common questions we think customers would ask, based on our experience and product details.
Is this tea organic?
The product name and marketing indicate organic elements, and the blend is positioned as organic jasmine green tea. For official certification icons and the certifying body, we advise checking the packaging or the English Tea Shop website for the batch’s exact accreditation.
Are the pyramid bags compostable?
The outer box and outer packaging are fully compostable. The pyramid bags themselves are made from polyester, which is recyclable in certain facilities but not compostable. Please follow local recycling guidelines for disposal of the bags.
How many cups will a 30 g pack make?
A typical pyramid bag is intended for one cup, and a 30 g pack often contains multiple pyramid bags. If using loose leaf measures, estimate about 1.5–2 g per cup for a light brew; 30 g can therefore yield roughly 15–20 cups depending on strength and whether you re-infuse.
Can we drink it cold?
Yes — a short, cooler brew with immediate chilling and pouring over ice works well for a refreshing cold beverage. Keep in mind the floral notes become subtler when iced.
Can it be reinfused?
Yes, we successfully reinfused the pyramid bag once for a second, gentler cup. The second steep is milder and more vegetal.
Final thoughts
We feel English Tea Shop Organic Jasmine Green Tea Loose Leaf, 30 g offers a charming and accessible floral green tea experience. It strikes a nice balance between quality and convenience, especially for those who value aroma and a clean liquor without needing artisanal intensity. The compostable packaging is a welcome feature, though the polyester pyramid bags reduce the overall compostability.
Overall, this product is a reliable everyday choice for anyone who enjoys jasmine-flavoured green tea with an added hint of elderflower. It’s friendly in cup and mindful in packaging, making it a straightforward purchase for both newcomers to floral teas and seasoned green-tea lovers seeking a lighter, fragrant option.
Summary table
To close, we present a final quick-reference table that encapsulates our main impressions and practical notes.
| Aspect | Our verdict |
|---|---|
| Aroma | Floral and fragrant, dominated by jasmine with elderflower sweetness |
| Taste | Balanced, smooth green base with delicate floral finish |
| Mouthfeel | Light to medium, clean and not too astringent when brewed correctly |
| Brewing ease | Needs attention to temperature/time but straightforward |
| Packaging | Compostable outer box; polyester pyramid bags (recyclable where facilities exist) |
| Value | Good for sample size and occasional drinkers; mid-range quality |
| Best for | Everyday floral tea drinkers, gifts, light refreshment |
| Not ideal for | Those seeking intensely scented premium jasmine or fully compostable tea bags |
We hope these notes help you decide whether English Tea Shop Organic Jasmine Green Tea Loose Leaf, 30 g fits your taste and lifestyle. If you’d like, we can compare it directly with a specific jasmine tea you’re considering.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
