On Mon, 24 Mar 2008 21:02:29 -0800, wrote:

On Thu, 20 Mar 2008 19:54:21 -0800, wrote:

I just purchased from Specialteas my idea of a good bulk buy of
loose-leaf Chinese green tea: 2 lbs. 533 Lung Ching plus $4.95 s/h
for $40.35, or $1.26 per oz. delivered.

It isn't their best Dragon Well, since it includes other than the
buds, but the lot I had before was nice. 2 lbs. should last a long
time, so I hope it comes in the re-sealable pouches as before.

Now, if I could figure out how to get the coupons that are evidently
out there, I would like Specialteas even more.

bookburn

I just received shipment of the 2 lbs. of Lung Ching and have this to
report, in case someone is considering a similar investment.

1. The loose leaf bulk amount came in a single foil package, not the
4 oz. re-sealable pouches sent with my last order for 1 lb..

2. I immediately re-packaged the lot into freezer bags with double
seals and put it into the vegetable drawer of my refrigerator, but it
looked rather dry and without much aroma.

3. Comparing a sample of this shipment with one received the first of
November, more than four months ago, I conclude that:
a. either the lot I got was handled improperly, or
b. it's not a spring harvest but remains of last years supply.

4. I'm referring the problem of freshness back to Specialteas to see
if they will accept a return.

So it looks like I got blind-sided on my "idea of a good investment"
in terms of the product received that may be somebody else's good idea
of wholesale house-cleaning. The only good things about the purchase
a
a. they did complete the sale in a timely manner, and
b. they sent me a complimentary sample of 1/2 oz. puttabong
FTGFOP1, first flush (no. 105), called a black tea, which is exotic
stuff to my palate. bookburn

I just got an e-mail back about my reported problem with the freshness
of 2 lbs. of lung ching I ordered from Specialteas. They have a
liberal return policy and are returning the amount charged to my
credit card. Here's a part of it, which I show to keep the record
straight about this company's reputation.

(quote)
The tea you received in your initial order in January was the
same batch as near as I can tell as what you received in March. We
have had no quality control issues that I am aware of with this tea.
Although, I checked for you, and have found out that a new batch
should be in late April or early May. If you give us a call or e-mail
at that time we can confirm if it is that new shipment in stock and
perhaps you would be happy with this new batch.

If I can be of any further assistance, please let me
know.
(unquote)

Evidently, I could have requested the delivery in 4 oz. resealable
pouches, instead of the one 2 lb. bag.

So I had to pay for return freight but appreciate their
consideration--and information--in the matter. bookburn