Tea has long been a beloved beverage across the globe, but in the American South, it holds a particularly special place. From the traditional sweet tea that graces dining tables to the region’s deep-rooted tea-growing history, the story of tea in the South is steeped in culture, tradition, and innovation.

Early Introduction of Tea to the American South

Tea first made its way to the American colonies in the 17th century, imported by European traders. While it was initially popular in Northern colonies, tea soon found its way to the Southern states, where it became a favored drink among the aristocracy and plantation owners. Imported teas from China and India were commonly consumed, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that the idea of growing tea domestically gained traction.

The First Tea Plantations in the South

The earliest attempts to cultivate tea in the United States took place in South Carolina. In the 1800s, Dr. Junius Smith, a physician and tea enthusiast, successfully established one of the first known tea plantations near Greenville, South Carolina. However, despite promising results, commercial tea cultivation faced challenges due to labor costs and competition from foreign imports.

In the late 19th century, the federal government took an interest in domestic tea production. The U.S. Department of Agriculture experimented with growing tea in several Southern states, but large-scale production remained difficult. One of the most significant breakthroughs came with the establishment of the Pinehurst Tea Plantation in Summerville, South Carolina, by Charles Shepard. His high-quality tea gained recognition, but after his death, the plantation ceased operations.

The Birth of Sweet Tea: A Southern Staple

No discussion of tea in the American South is complete without mentioning sweet tea. This refreshing beverage became a Southern tradition in the early 20th century. The earliest recorded recipe for sweet iced tea appeared in a 1879 cookbook, but it wasn’t until the widespread availability of refrigeration and ice that the drink truly took off. By the mid-20th century, sweet tea had become synonymous with Southern hospitality and remains a cultural icon today.

Modern-Day Tea Cultivation in the South

While large-scale tea production in the South has historically been difficult, modern efforts have revived the industry. The Charleston Tea Garden, formerly the Lipton Tea Plantation, is the only large-scale commercial tea farm in the United States. Located on Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina, the plantation continues to produce American-grown tea, attracting tourists and tea enthusiasts alike.

Beyond South Carolina, small-scale tea farms have emerged in states like Georgia, Mississippi, and Alabama, where climate conditions are suitable for tea cultivation. These artisanal tea growers are bringing renewed attention to Southern-grown tea, focusing on sustainability and quality.

The Cultural Legacy of Tea in the South

Tea’s presence in the South extends beyond agriculture—it is a defining aspect of Southern culture. From backyard gatherings to grand celebrations, tea is a staple at social events, often served in elegant glasses and enjoyed year-round. The tradition of sweet tea continues to be passed down through generations, remaining a symbol of Southern comfort and hospitality.

Final Thoughts

The history of tea in the American South is a fascinating blend of tradition, innovation, and resilience. While challenges in large-scale production have persisted, the love for tea—particularly sweet tea—remains unwavering. As new tea-growing ventures gain momentum, the future of tea in the South looks bright, preserving a legacy that has been cherished for centuries.

When it comes to indulging in desserts, pairing them with the right tea can elevate the experience, balancing flavors and enhancing the taste of both the treat and the brew. Whether you enjoy a light pastry or a rich chocolate cake, there’s a perfect tea to complement every dessert. Let’s explore the best tea and dessert pairings to delight your taste buds.

1. Classic Chocolate Cake & Assam Tea

Chocolate cake, with its deep and rich cocoa notes, pairs beautifully with Assam tea. This bold, malty black tea enhances the cake’s sweetness while adding a subtle astringency to balance the richness. The result? A heavenly combination that satisfies chocolate lovers. 

Purchase our Indian Assam

2. Cheesecake & Green Tea

A creamy, tangy cheesecake pairs well with a delicate green tea, such as Sencha or Dragon Well. The tea’s slight bitterness and fresh, grassy notes cut through the richness of the cheesecake, creating a refreshing contrast.

Try our Japanese Sencha

3. Apple Pie & Chai Tea

The warm, spiced flavors of chai tea complement the cinnamon and nutmeg notes in apple pie perfectly. With hints of cardamom, cloves, and ginger, chai enhances the comforting, homemade taste of this classic dessert.

Buy Bluff City Chai

4. Lemon Tart & Earl Grey Tea

Earl Grey, with its citrusy bergamot flavor, is the ideal match for a zesty lemon tart. The tea’s floral and slightly smoky notes add depth to the tart’s bright acidity, making for an elegant and refreshing pairing.

Experience Premium Earl Grey

5. Vanilla Cupcakes & Raspberry Vanilla Cream Rooibos

Rooibos tea blended with real raspberry pieces, known for its floral and subtly sweet aroma, complements the light, vanilla-infused flavor of cupcakes. This pairing is delicate and fragrant, making it perfect for an afternoon tea gathering.

Relish Raspberry Vanilla Cream

6. Tiramisu & Matcha Green Tea

Tiramisu’s layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone pair beautifully with the umami-rich depth of matcha. The green tea’s earthy bitterness balances the dessert’s sweetness, creating a sophisticated flavor profile.

Meet our Main Street Matcha

7. Shortbread Cookies & Darjeeling Tea

The buttery, crumbly texture of shortbread cookies pairs well with the floral and muscatel notes of Darjeeling tea. This high-altitude black tea is light yet complex, making it a refined match for simple, buttery treats.

Delight in our Darjeeling

8. Carrot Cake & Orange Spice Rooibos Tea

Carrot cake’s warm spices and cream cheese frosting find harmony with orange spice (Winter Wonder) caffeine-free rooibos tea. The tea’s natural sweetness and hints of orange peel and cinnamon enhance the cake’s comforting, spiced flavors.

Opt for our Orange Spice Rooibos

9. Macarons & White Peach Tea

Macarons, known for their delicate shells and flavorful fillings, pair wonderfully with the subtle and smooth notes of white peach tea. The mild and slightly sweet tea does not overpower the intricate flavors of the macarons.

Wonder at our White Peach Tea

10. Brownies & Peppermint Tea

The cool, refreshing taste of peppermint tea pairs exceptionally well with the fudgy richness of brownies. The minty notes cleanse the palate, preventing the chocolate from feeling too heavy.

Pamper yourself with Peppermint Tea

Final Thoughts

Tea and dessert pairings are all about balance—matching flavors, aromas, and textures to create a delightful tasting experience. The next time you indulge in a sweet treat, try pairing it with a well-chosen tea to elevate your enjoyment. Do you have a favorite tea and dessert pairing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Discover the highlights of 2024 at My Cup of Tea, from our best-selling Memphis-inspired tea blends to our nationwide impact. Explore premium teas, top flavors, and how we’ve connected with tea lovers in Memphis and across the U.S. this year. Join us in 2025 to make a difference, one cup at a time!

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with your loved ones and indulge in classic family dishes that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. While the turkey, macaroni and cheese, and pumpkin pie often steal the spotlight, there’s one element that can elevate your entire Thanksgiving dinner experience: tea. Pairing the right tea with each course of your Thanksgiving meal adds a unique twist to your day and enhances the flavor of your food. In this guide, we’ll explore which of our teas pair best with each course – from appetizers to desserts!

As fall settles in, you can find us cozying up at The House with a hot cup of tea. This season, we are so excited to introduce two limited-edition teas that capture the essence of autumn - Playful Maple Pumpkin and Loose Leaf Roasted Almond.

Enjoying a perfect cup of tea goes beyond brewing; it starts with proper storage. This guide explores how to store different types of tea—black, green, herbal, oolong, and white—to preserve their unique flavors and freshness. It provides practical tips for selecting the right storage containers such as opaque canisters, tins, glass jars, and vacuum-sealed bags. The blog also distinguishes between loose leaf tea and tea bags, offering advice on how to keep both in optimal condition. For long-term storage, consider repackaging and monitoring expiration dates. Enhance your tea experience with expert storage practices and support My Cup of Tea, a non-profit dedicated to empowering women through quality tea.

At the House in Orange Mound, every day is a celebration of growth, resilience, and creativity. Through sewing and embroidery, furniture refurbishing, gardening, and other workshops, the women who work here weave stories of transformation and renewal. As our packaged teas travel across the nation, they carry with them the spirit of community and empowerment fostered within these walls. Whether you're stopping by for a tour, restocking your tea collection, or joining us for an elegant afternoon tea party, you're not just supporting a business—you're becoming part of a movement, and we’d love to have you.

Whether you’re a tenured tea drinker or new to the delicious beverage, you may find yourself caught between two popular options: loose leaf tea and multi-use tea bags. While both products will steep a delicious cup of tea, they have their own unique characteristics, benefits, and user profiles.

Get your 2024 Father's Day gifts from My Cup of Tea. Whether near or far, your fatherly figure will love our selection of teas, tea accessories, sweet snacks, and inspirational reads! Visit us in Memphis or shop our store online.

In the world of tea, myths and misconceptions often abound, leading to confusion among enthusiasts and novices alike, but there are numerous myths about tea that are pervasive around the globe. Here are seven myths about tea that we debunk, shedding light on the truth behind these widely believed misconceptions.

1. Myth: Tea Contains No Caffeine
Fact: While it's true that some herbal teas are caffeine-free, traditional tea varieties such as black, green, white, and oolong tea naturally contain caffeine. The caffeine content may vary depending on factors like the type of tea leaves, brewing time, and water temperature. However, compared to coffee, tea generally contains less caffeine, making it a popular choice for those seeking a milder energy boost.

2. Myth: All Tea Leaves Are Harvested the Same Way
 Fact: Contrary to popular belief, tea leaves are harvested in different ways depending on the type of tea being produced. For example, black tea is typically harvested by hand, while green tea leaves may be plucked by hand or harvested using mechanical methods. The harvesting process can significantly impact the flavor and quality of the final product, making it essential for tea producers to employ the most suitable techniques for each variety.

3. Myth: Tea Should Always Be Brewed with Boiling Water
Fact: While boiling water is commonly used to brew tea, it may not be the best option for certain varieties. Green and white teas, for instance, are more delicate and can become bitter when steeped in water that's too hot. To preserve the delicate flavors of these teas, it's recommended to use water that's slightly below boiling temperature, typically around 175°F to 185°F. Experimenting with different water temperatures can help enhance the nuances of various tea varieties.

4. Myth: Tea Bags Are Inferior to Loose Leaf Tea
Fact: While loose leaf tea is often praised for its quality and flavor, modern tea bags have come a long way in terms of both materials and design. Many reputable tea brands now offer high-quality tea bags made from biodegradable materials and containing whole leaf tea, ensuring a flavorful and convenient brewing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose loose leaf or tea bags depends on personal preference and convenience.

5. Myth: Herbal Tea Is Always Safe for Consumption
Fact: While herbal teas are generally safe for consumption, it's essential to be aware of potential allergens and interactions with certain medications. Some herbal ingredients, such as chamomile and peppermint, may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Additionally, herbal teas containing medicinal herbs or supplements should be consumed with caution, especially if you're taking prescribed medications. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help ensure the safety of herbal tea consumption, particularly if you have underlying health concerns.

6. Myth: The Longer You Brew Tea, the Better It Tastes
Fact: Brewing tea for an extended period can lead to over-extraction, resulting in a bitter and astringent taste. Each tea variety has an optimal brewing time that allows for the extraction of desirable flavors without overpowering bitterness. For example, black tea typically requires a steeping time of 3 to 5 minutes, while green tea may only need 1 to 3 minutes. Adhering to recommended brewing times ensures a balanced and enjoyable tea drinking experience.

7. Myth: Tea Should Be Stored in the Freezer to Maintain Freshness
Fact: Storing tea in the freezer may seem like a practical way to preserve freshness, but it can actually degrade the quality and flavor of the tea. Exposure to moisture and fluctuating temperatures can cause tea leaves to absorb unwanted odors and flavors, compromising their taste. Instead, it's best to store tea in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong odors. Airtight containers or resealable bags can help maintain the freshness of tea for extended periods.

In conclusion, debunking uncommon myths about tea is essential for fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of this beloved beverage. By separating fact from fiction, tea enthusiasts can elevate their tea drinking experience and enjoy the diverse flavors and aromas that tea has to offer. Whether you're a seasoned tea aficionado or just beginning your tea journey, embracing the truth behind these myths will undoubtedly enhance your tea-drinking adventures.

From savory entrees to sweet treats, the subtle flavors and aromatic qualities of tea add depth and complexity to everyday recipes.

Welcome to the luxurious world of celebrities who indulge in the timeless ritual of tea sipping. We delve into the fascinating tea preferences of beloved stars like Emma Watson, Jennifer Aniston, and more. Join us as we explore the charm, sophistication, and relaxation that tea brings to the lives of these A-listers.

 

 

 

Jennifer Aniston: Steeping in Wellness 

America's sweetheart, Jennifer Aniston, embraces tea not just for its taste but also for its wellness benefits Aniston is a green tea enthusiast, attributing her radiant skin and overall well-being to the antioxidants found in this ancient elixir. Dive into the world of health and rejuvenation as we explore Aniston's tea journey.

 

 

Sir Ian McKellen: Shakespearean Sips

The legendary Sir Ian McKellen, known for his iconic roles in both Shakespearean plays and blockbuster films, has a penchant for the theatrical in his tea choices. Earl Grey, with its bold flavor and aromatic essence, is Sir McKellen's tea of choice, transporting him to an era of literary brilliance with every sip.

 

 

Cate Blanchett: Tea with a Touch of Glamour

Renowned for her elegance and timeless beauty, Cate Blanchett opts for exotic teas that mirror her sophisticated palate. Chai lattes infused with rare spices and delicate floral notes are the actress's preferred choice, adding a touch of glamour to her tea sessions.

 

 

 

Hugh Jackman: From Coffee to Chai Connoisseur

While widely recognized for his love of coffee, Hugh Jackman has diversified his palate to include a newfound appreciation for chai. This transition showcases the versatility of tea and its ability to win over even the most dedicated coffee enthusiasts.

 

 

 

 As we've uncovered the tea preferences of these celebrated individuals, it's evident that tea transcends its humble origins to become a symbol of refinement and relaxation for celebrities worldwide. Whether it's the classic elegance of Emma Watson's English Breakfast or the wellness journey of Jennifer Aniston with green tea, these stars remind us that there's always time for tea, even in the glitzy world of Hollywood.

So, next time you find yourself enjoying a cup of your favorite brew, take a moment to imagine sharing that experience with the likes of Emma Watson, Jennifer Aniston, Sir Ian McKellen, Cate Blanchett, and Hugh Jackman – after all, tea is a universal pleasure that knows no bounds.