Steve,

In my opinion IPOT teas are well worth the price I pay for them.

Teas do have their seasons. For example, again IMO, green teas picked in the
early spring are the best ones in general. Bao Zhongs have a spring and a
winter picking, each of which presents different qualities, the later being
more out front and "bolder." Darjeelings have a first and second flush,
again, the later is often more "honeyed" and richer, while the former more
delicate and greener in style. Sencha and Gyokuro (Japanese teas) also taste
different depending on their season, the earliest being the gentlest. That's
of course not the end of it. There is no end to it.

Based on all this, there is no correct season. It depends on your
preferences. Teas that have been well stored should be OK most any time,
although I would not buy delicate Japanese or Chinese spring teas too far
out of season.

Generally, in the USA, spring teas won't be available until a month to six
weeks after they are picked. This is not necessarily a bad thing. As vendors
try to make room for their new teas, prices will fall somewhat sometimes for
their older stock. Beyond that, I don't think you'll see wild price
flucuations. It's important to note however that those early spring teas are
sometimes truly great and command a very high price. Long Jin and Bi Lo Chun
are two examples of Chinese green teas whose first pickings can command an
extraordinarily high price.

Wonder if I didn't confuse you more than help you.

Best,
Michael


Steve HaydU0ad.2157$j15.102@trnddc0710/9/04


All,

Are there seasons for tea? If so, what are they? What times of year is
is best to buy certain teas? Is this why the prices sometimes fluctuate?

Steve

PS Is IPOT overpriced or just that good?