Harney & Sons Formosa Oolong Tea (3oz Loose Leaf)

This Formosa oolong has a smooth, balanced flavor with subtle sweetness—especially nice if you add a touch of honey. It's got that traditional oolong character you'd find at classic Chinese restaurants, with a creamy finish that's comforting rather than harsh. The flavor sits right between green and black tea, making it approachable without being bland.

Absolutely. The flavor isn't as harsh as black tea but has more personality than green tea, so it's a nice middle ground. The tin even includes brewing temperature instructions, which takes the guesswork out of preparation. Reviewers mention it's forgiving and comforting—you're unlikely to mess it up, and it won't overwhelm your palate while you're learning what you like.

Most reviewers praise the quality and freshness of the leaves, noting they arrive in good condition with a pleasant aroma. That said, a couple of customers mentioned finding stems or small sticks in the mix, and one batch arrived with a burnt smell. These seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, but it's worth knowing the quality can occasionally vary.

The smaller tin actually has benefits—it keeps the tea fresher since you'll finish it before it has a chance to go stale, and it lets you try different varieties without committing to a huge quantity. One reviewer specifically appreciated being able to rotate through different teas while maintaining freshness. The tin design also protects the leaves better than a bag, though a few customers reported dented packaging on arrival.

Yes, that's one of the advantages of loose leaf. You can control how much you use and how long you steep it to dial in your perfect strength. Whether you want a lighter, more delicate cup or something bolder, the leaves give you that flexibility. Reviewers mention being able to customize it exactly how they like.

It depends on your budget and priorities. A few reviewers called it 'pricey' or an 'indulgence,' but others felt it offered good value for a reputable brand with consistent quality. If you're looking for an affordable daily oolong that doesn't require high-end complexity but still delivers reliable flavor, this hits that sweet spot. If you're pinching pennies, you might find cheaper options—but you'll likely sacrifice some consistency.