Frequently Asked Questions

How are your teas priced?

Each of our teas is priced by the ounce. Since loose leaf teas can be steeped at least two times per serving, each ounce makes approximately 5-10 cups of delicious, full-flavored tea.

Where is your shop located?

As of writing, we do not currently have a physical storefront, but we do offer scheduled pick-up from Riverbend Roastery in Church Hill, scheduled drop-off within Richmond City limits, and USPS shipping to all 50 States.

Where do your teas come from?

Our ingredients come from all over the world from countries such as Argentina, China, Egypt, Japan, Kenya, South Africa, Taiwan, and many more. This is because even if we wanted to grow our own leaves, it would not be what we advertise. For example, an Assam tea comes from the Assam region of India from tea estates which have an altitude, climate, and soil composition unique from anything we might have here. Those unique properties along with when the leaves are harvested, which harvest they come from, and what is later done to the leaves create a flavor different from any other tea out there. No matter how hard we might try to replicate an Assam here in the states, at the end of the day, it would be a stunning tea, but it would still not be an Assam.

Why loose leaf instead of tea bags?

Often times, tea bags contain not the leaves of the teas they come from, but rather the fannings (hair-like fibers) from the tea leaves. While they are in fact still tea, they do not offer the superior flavor evoked by the whole leaves. Secondly, as these are whole leaf teas, confining them to bags inhibits the leaves from expanding and allowing a proper steep.

What is your return policy?

Tried a particular blend and realized it may not be your cup of tea? We will offer you a refund or exchange for the remaining amount of tea. We want you to feel 100% satisfied with your tea experience, and shall do our best to make sure you are.

Do you offer wholesale for cafes/restaurants/Local Businesses?

We do, indeed. If you wish to discuss which teas would be best for your business as well as wholesale pricing, contact us through email at sales@hemlockandkey.com