Beginner’s Guide to Tea Types

If you’ve ever stood in front of a tea shelf and felt a little unsure where to start, you’re not alone. Black, green, herbal, rooibos - each has its own character, rhythm, and place in daily life. At Piper & Leaf, we’ve found that learning the basics makes tea feel less intimidating and far more enjoyable (which is always our goal)! 

This beginner’s guide is here to walk you through the main types of tea we blend at Piper & Leaf, what makes each one unique, and how to choose the right cup for your day. Think of it as a friendly starting point, not a rulebook. 

What Makes One Tea Different from Another? 

Most traditional teas begin with the same plant, Camellia sinensis. What changes is how the leaves are processed after harvest. The main difference between the types of tea is the amount of fermentation and oxidation used in the curing process. That processing affects flavor, color, caffeine content, and overall character. 

Herbal (tisanes) and rooibos teas are a little different. They’re not made from tea leaves at all, but from herbs, fruits, flowers, and roots. That difference opens the door to naturally caffeine-free blends and a wide range of flavors. 

Understanding these basics can help you choose tea with confidence! 

Black Tea: Bold, Familiar, and Energizing 

Black tea is fully oxidized, which gives it its deep color and rich, robust flavor. It’s often what people picture when they think of classic tea. 

Black teas typically contain more caffeine than other tea types, though still less than coffee. Studies suggest black tea contains roughly 40–70 mg of caffeine per cup, offering a steadier lift without the sharp spike and crash. 

Many people enjoy black tea: 

If you’re new to tea, black tea is often a comfortable place to begin. Its flavors are familiar, approachable, and forgiving to brew. Our fan-favorite is Front Porch Special, which is a bold, welcoming black tea that feels right at home in everyday routines. 

Earl Grey Tea: Citrus-Scented and Comforting 

Earl Grey is a classic black tea traditionally flavored with bergamot, a fragrant citrus fruit. It’s beloved for its distinctive aroma and comforting balance of brightness and depth. 

Because it’s built on a black tea base, Earl Grey contains caffeine, but its citrus notes often make it feel lighter and more uplifting than other black teas. It’s a favorite for mid-morning cups or slow afternoons. 

For those who enjoy a playful twist on a classic, Old Fashioned Birthday Cake brings Earl Grey together with dessert-inspired flavors, creating a tea that feels celebratory without being heavy. 

Green Tea: Fresh, Light, and Focused 

Green tea is made from the same plant as black tea, but the leaves are heated quickly after harvest to prevent oxidation. This preserves their green color and creates a lighter, fresher flavor profile. 

Green tea generally contains less caffeine than black tea and is often associated with calm focus. Research shows that the combination of caffeine and L-theanine found in green tea may support attention and mental clarity without overstimulation. 

Green tea is a great choice when you want: 

Because green tea is more delicate, it benefits from using slightly cooler water and shorter steep times. If you’re looking for a bright, refreshing place to begin, Springdrop Spritzer is a lovely green tea that feels especially fitting for focused mornings or afternoons. 

Herbal Tea: Naturally Caffeine-Free and Comforting 

Herbal teas, which we often refer to as tisanes, are made from plants other than tea leaves. That means flowers, fruits, herbs, and roots all play a role. Because they contain no tea leaves, tisanes are naturally caffeine-free. 

Herbal blends have long been enjoyed for their soothing qualities. Multiple studies associate tisanes with relaxation and reduced perceived stress, especially when enjoyed as part of an evening routine. 

People often reach for herbal tisanes: 

From floral and minty to fruity and warming, tisanes offer incredible variety and flexibility. One favorite for full-bodied comfort is Briar Patch Brew, a tisane that feels velvety and familiar, no matter the time of day. 

Rooibos Tea: Smooth, Earthy, and Naturally Sweet 

Rooibos comes from a plant native to South Africa and, like herbal tisanes, contains no caffeine. It has a naturally smooth, slightly sweet flavor that makes it especially approachable. 

Rooibos is often enjoyed: 

Rooibos is naturally low in tannins, which are a type of polyphenolic compound found in tea leaves that contribute to astringent and bitter flavor. So, Rooibos tends to brew smoothly without bitterness. It’s also very forgiving, making it a great option for new tea drinkers. If you enjoy something bright yet comforting, Minty Midnight, a red rooibos blend with mint and cocoa, is our favorite choice for winding down. 

A Quick Comparison of Piper & Leaf Tea Types 

This chart offers a simple starting point, but taste and experience matter most. Many people enjoy different tea types throughout the day, choosing what fits the moment. 

A Fun Way to Start Exploring 

There’s no single “best” tea type. The right choice depends on your preferences, your schedule, and how you want to feel! Trying different tea types can be as simple as brewing something new and seeing how it fits into your day. Maybe bold black tea becomes your morning companion. Maybe green tea sneaks into your afternoons. Maybe a tisane or rooibos quietly takes over your evenings. 

Around our table, discovering tea has always felt a little like an adventure. We talk about flavors, compare our favorites, and occasionally change our minds. That curiosity is half of the fun!  

Let your tea shelf become a small collection of experiences, not rules. Tea is personal, and discovering what works for you is part of the joy.