The Best Green Tea in 2025 - Our Top Brands & Flavors to Get Excited About

black teapot sits beside two white cups filled with vibrant green tea without using green tea bags

Handpicked selection of the best green tea brands of 2025, reviewed for flavor, quality, and freshness

Features both loose-leaf and tea bags, from classic Sencha to creative blends like jasmine and citrus

Explores authentic teas from Japan, China, Nepal, and India, plus modern wellness favorites

Includes expert brewing tips to help you get the perfect cup every time

Green tea's been a firm favorite beverage for people who enjoy a refreshing drink during their day - and in 2025, its popularity just keeps on growing. Whether you're looking for a calming cup or a real tea drinkers and enthusiast wanting to try something new and exciting, we've got you covered.

These days you can get your hands on all sorts of different styles of green tea - from pure Japanese Sencha to floral jasmine, zesty citrus & mint blends, herbal teas and even super sweet dessert-inspired concoctions like peach-infused varieties. Whether you're a loose-leaf fan or prefer the convenience of a good old-fashioned tea bag, there's a type to suit every taste and daily routine.

We created this list as a helpful guide to the top green teas around - and we put a lot of work into finding the very best teas out there. We read loads of customer reviews, checked out the top-selling teas from each brand, and took a close look at the quality and freshness of the leaves. And just to make sure you can get your hands on these top teas, we checked that they're all widely available to order.

This guide highlights the teas that people genuinely love - the ones that taste amazing time and time again, proving why green tea remains a great tea choice for many.

What is Green Tea?

Green tea being poured into a white ceramic cup on a bamboo coaster

Green tea comes from the same plant as black, oolong and white tea - the Camellia sinensis - but what sets it apart is that it's only minimally oxidized. The leaves are quickly steamed or pan-fried after picking, which helps preserve that lovely bright green color, fresh grassy aroma and all those wonderful natural compounds that give green tea its unique flavor and aroma. The best green teas taste refreshing and have a gentle, uplifting effect that makes every sip feel smooth and aromatic. 

Even people who aren't too keen on stronger flavors tend to find green tea is pleasantly mild, with notes that range from nutty and sweet to floral or vegetal. While some green teas can be bitter if over steeped, the right brewing technique ensures a balanced cup without harshness. And since it usually offers a calm, steady caffeine boost, it's a great alternative to coffee, offering a gentler caffeine experience.

This ancient Chinese and Japanese drink now comes in loads of different regional styles, each with its own unique aroma, body and taste. From pure loose-leaf teas to modern blends, there's a flavor to suit every mood and moment. Tea enthusiasts around the world love green tea for its variety, authenticity and the simple joy of brewing something that feels both pure and revitalizing.

Many people also appreciate green tea for its natural qualities and the potential health benefits associated with drinking it regularly, though it's important to note that these benefits are still being studied and green tea products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Top 10 Best Green Teas in 2025

1) Gardenika – Green Lemon Ginseng Tea

Brand overview: Gardenika is a tea brand that's all about purity and keeping things simple with no added sugars, artificial sweeteners or artificial flavors. Their teas are USDA Organic and kosher certified.

Flavor and experience: Gardenika's Green Lemon Ginseng Tea is a light, refreshing brew with earthy green tea notes brightened by citrusy lemon myrtle and warmed with subtle ginseng tones. Some product listings say it's got about 28mg of caffeine per cup, so it's a moderate but gentle boost.

Brewing & Serving: Brew Gardenika Green Lemon Ginseng Tea with 1 to 1.5 teaspoons of loose leaf per 8 oz (≈ 240 ml) of water at 75–85 °C (167–185 °F) for 2 to 3 minutes to highlight its bright green tea, lemon myrtle, and ginseng flavors. For iced tea, brew stronger, cool, and serve over ice to enjoy its crisp citrus and smooth finish. It pairs well with light snacks like fresh fruit or mild cheeses and can be enhanced with honey or lemon. Serve in a clear glass to showcase its delicate golden-green hue. Ideal for a mid-morning boost or calming afternoon treat, suitable for casual or mindful sipping.

2) Harney & Sons – Japanese Sencha

Brand overview: Harney & Sons, founded in 1983 in Salisbury, Connecticut, is known for its premium loose-leaf and sachet teas, offering a wide range from classic black teas to rare single-origin greens. Their Japanese Sencha comes from Japan's Shizuoka region, famed for its tea, and is praised as a great everyday cup with classic Japanese flavor, ideal for those new to green tea.

Flavor and experience: The Japanese Sencha is a premium green tea that has got a lovely fresh, grassy aroma and a smooth, gentle flavor that's a bit like spinach and toasted nuts. The color of the tea is a clear, light green with a medium body and a hint of sweetness. It's a very balanced and refreshing tea that's not too overpowering, and many people would say it's one of the best Senchas they've ever tried. It's got a nice lift from the caffeine without being too much, making it a great option for morning and mid-day breaks.

Brewing & Serving: To brew Japanese Sencha, use one teaspoon of loose leaf tea or one sachet per 8 oz (≈ 240 ml) of water heated to 70–80 °C (160–175 °F). Steep for 2–3 minutes to enjoy its fresh, grassy aroma and smooth, nutty flavor without bitterness. For iced tea, steep in cold water for 4–6 hours to get a light, crisp cup with gentle sweetness—ideal for warm days. Pairs well with light meals like sushi or steamed vegetables. Increase steeping time slightly for a stronger taste, but avoid over brewing to prevent bitterness.

3) August Uncommon Tea – Combray Vanilla Cardamom Green Tea

Brand overview: August Uncommon Tea is a tea company from Los Angeles who are all about reimagining classic tea blends with a modern twist. They've got a real focus on using the best natural ingredients from all around the world to create teas that taste like fine desserts or cocktails. Each of their blends is made in small batches so they can ensure that the flavor is always as rich and bold as it can be. August Uncommon also put a big emphasis on quality and transparency - their teas are all non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan and free from artificial flavoring or sugar.

Flavor and experience: August Uncommon's Combray Vanilla Cardamom Green Tea is a real showstopper, with a dessert-inspired flavor profile that combines organic Chinese chun Mee green tea with cardamom seed & pod and vanilla pieces. It's described as tasting like pound cake, vanilla, warm hay, grass and hazelnut - it's like drinking a sweet treat! The vanilla adds a lovely creamy sweetness and the cardamom gives it a warm spicy kick that complements the green tea beautifully. It's a rich and indulgent tea that's perfect for when you need a bit of comfort.

Brewing & Serving: To brew Combray Vanilla Cardamom Green Tea, use about 2 teaspoons (≈ 3.5 g) of loose leaf for every 10 oz (≈ 300 ml) of water heated to 80 °C (≈ 175 °F), and steep for 4 to 5 minutes to bring out the soft vanilla sweetness and gentle spice of cardamom over the smooth green tea base. The leaves can be re-steeped once or twice for a lighter second infusion. For a serving option, enjoy it hot to highlight its warm, bakery-like notes, or brew it stronger and pour over ice for a cool, subtly sweet refreshment.

4) Plum Deluxe – Citrus Mint Green Tea

Brand overview: Plum Deluxe is a small-batch tea outfit in Oregon that's become pretty well-known for their creative blends that just so happen to embody the spirit of comfort, mindfulness and living life to the fullest. Each brew is lovingly hand-blended in tiny batches using top-notch ingredients and packaged up fresh to lock in that all-important flavor. And it's this philosophy of slowing down and taking time to appreciate the little things that really shows in every single cup.

Flavor and experience: Plum Deluxe's Citrus Mint Green Tea is a real winner - a snappy, refreshing blend of Chinese green tea, lemongrass, spearmint, orange peel and a hint of lemon that'll have you feeling like you've just stepped out into a bright, sunny day. The citrus kicks things off with a zesty zing, then the mint comes in with a soothing coolness that's perfect for a refreshing finish. And just when you thought it was all about the zing, the green tea base comes in to round things out with some subtle, veggie-flavored notes that add depth without any bitterness. This is the kind of tea that offers a light, refreshing taste without being overpowering - perfect for a lazy morning or a pick-me-up in the afternoon.

Brewing & Serving: To enjoy Citrus Mint green tea at its best, steep one teaspoon of loose leaf in 8 ounces of water heated to 175°F (80°C) for 3 to 4 minutes. This preserves the delicate citrus and mint flavors while avoiding bitterness. For a stronger iced tea, use two teaspoons per 8 ounces, steep for 4 minutes, then cool and serve over ice. This tea pairs well with light, fresh foods like fruit salads or mild cheeses, and looks lovely served in a clear glass to showcase its pale golden-green hue.

5) Tea with Tae – Jasmine Green Tea Mini Tea Tube

Brand overview: Tea with Tae is a woman-owned outfit over in Colorado that's built a reputation for serving up top-notch, small-batch blends that are perfect for everyday life. They're all about quality and sustainability, using eco-friendly, biodegradable sachets that keep the tea fresh without adding any unnecessary packaging. And let's be honest, their stylish, travel-friendly packaging doesn't hurt either - it's like having a proper cup of tea in your pocket!

Flavor and experience: Tea with Tae's Jasmine Green Tea is a real treat - a smooth, calming brew made with delicate jasmine blossoms and the finest Bao Zhong green tea. The result is a cup that's just so relaxing to drink, with soft floral notes, oceanic hints and a natural sweetness that's just perfect. And the best part? It's got just the right amount of caffeine to perk you up without sending you into a spin. Many tea lovers swear by how balanced it tastes - fragrant but not overpowering, clean and refreshing from the first sip to the last.

Brewing & Serving: To enjoy Tea with Tae’s Jasmine green tea at its best, steep one biodegradable sachet in about 8 ounces of hot water at around 175°F (80°C) for 3-5 minutes. This allows the delicate jasmine aroma to fully develop while preserving the tea’s smooth and gentle character. The sachets are generously filled with whole-leaf Bao Zhong tea, ensuring a rich infusion without the hassle of loose leaves. Perfect for a calming moment at home or a refreshing pick-me-up on the go, this tea can be savored hot to highlight its floral notes or brewed stronger and served over ice for a crisp, revitalizing iced tea—ideal for warm days.

6) Nepal Tea – Himalayan Mist (Kanchanjangha Verde)

Brand overview: Nepal Tea Co. is a social enterprise that's all about bringing top-notch, authentic teas from the foothills of Mt. Kanchanjangha in eastern Nepal straight to your doorstep. They work directly with local farmers to make sure sustainable growing practices and fair pay are always on the agenda, and they're totally focused on serving up freshness and flavor in every single batch. The tea is all organically grown, hand-plucked and carefully processed to lock in that bright, clean taste you only get from green tea leaves that are simply perfect.

Flavor and experience: Himalayan Mist - also known as Kanchanjangha Verde - is a standout green tea that's got a smooth, refreshing flavor and a subtle aroma that's just easy to love. It's got soft floral notes up front, then some lovely grassy and nutty hints with just a hint of natural sweetness. The result is a crisp, mellow cup that's just so balanced and satisfying - perfect for anyone who's after a nice, steady pick-me-up without the harsh stuff of stronger teas or morning coffee.

Brewing & Serving: For the best taste, use about 1 teaspoon (2 g) of Nepal Tea Co.'s Himalayan Mist per 8 oz of water heated to around 160°F. Steep for about 3 minutes to bring out its delicate flavor without bitterness. As the tea cools, it develops new layers, shifting from bright and floral to soft and veggie-flavored. Enjoy it hot in the morning or over ice in the afternoon. For iced tea, brew a slightly stronger infusion with 1.5 teaspoons, then chill and serve over ice with lemon or fresh mint to enhance its natural floral and grassy notes. It pairs beautifully with light snacks such as cucumber sandwiches or mild cheeses, making it a versatile choice for both casual and elegant occasions.

7) iLOLA – Midnight Jasmine No. 27

Brand overview: iLOLA is a modern tea brand that turns the old way of brewing tea on its head. Instead of using loose leaves or tea bags, they create these neat little tea discs - essentially compressed rounds of top-notch loose-leaf tea that's been infused with live probiotics as a result of a 30 day fermentation process. The end result is a hassle-free way to enjoy high-quality tea that not only tastes great but also has a modern twist. iLOLA is also all about living a sustainable lifestyle and being mindful of the impact of our actions. They achieve this by using zero-waste packaging and natural ingredients that are as much about taste as they are about balance.

Flavor and experience: Midnight Jasmine No. 27 is one of iLOLA's standout blends - a caffeine-free tea that brings together delicate jasmine blossoms and a soft green tea base. The overall taste is smooth and floral, with a gentle jasmine note that lingers and a finish that's both light and soothing. It's the kind of cup that's just begging you to slow down - perfect for unwinding in the evening or having while you take some quiet time to yourself.

Brewing & Serving: To brew Midnight Jasmine No. 27, drop one tea disc into 8 ounces of hot water at around 175°F (80°C) and steep for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the disc to dissolve gradually and release a delicate jasmine aroma. The resulting tea is smooth, lightly sweet, and fragrant, perfect for enjoying warm in a mug or clear glass to appreciate its pale golden color. Being caffeine-free, it’s ideal for relaxing in the late afternoon or evening, and can also be chilled and served over ice with a slice of lemon or fresh mint for a refreshing iced tea experience. iLOLA’s tea discs offer a convenient, mess-free brewing method without compromising quality.

8) Beach House Tea – Blueberry Beach Breeze

Brand overview: Beach House Tea is a small-batch tea brand that draws inspiration from the laid-back charm of the Oregon Coast. Every single one of their blends is handcrafted using 100 per cent organic, fair-trade ingredients - all of which are sealed up fresh within 30 days to lock in that all-important aroma and flavor. Their teas capture the coastal vibe and freshness in every single cup - perfect for anyone who wants their tea to feel like a mini-vacation from it all.

Flavor and experience: Blueberry Beach Breeze is one of their most refreshing blends - a fruity green tea that tastes like summer in a cup. It's made with green tea, Washington blueberries, hibiscus, blackberry leaf, peppermint, lime peel, and a touch of stevia for that extra bit of natural sweetness. The overall taste is bright and juicy with hints of berry, a soft tartness, and a cool minty finish. It's a great all-rounder that's perfect for when you just need a pick-me-up or something to cool you down.

Brewing & Serving: To enjoy the Blueberry Beach Breeze, steep one heaping teaspoon per 8 oz of boiling water for 5-6 minutes. This allows the vibrant berry and refreshing mint flavors to blend perfectly with the green tea base, creating a lively and invigorating cup. Served hot, it’s cozy and aromatic—ideal for a relaxing morning or afternoon break. When iced, it becomes a refreshing, beachy drink that’s perfect for warm days. For an extra touch, add a slice of fresh lime or a sprig of mint to highlight its bright citrus and minty notes. This versatile tea pairs wonderfully with light desserts, fresh fruit, or mild cheeses, making it a delightful choice for casual gatherings or quiet moments of indulgence. Blueberry Beach Breeze adds a sunny touch to any moment.

9) Danfe Tea – 22° Nepal Jasmine Green Tea

Brand overview: Danfe Tea is a brand that brings all these amazing high-quality loose-leaf teas from the high-altitude gardens of eastern Nepal and brings them to tea enthusiasts all across the U.S. They're big fans of sustainable and minimally processed teas, which really helps bring out the natural aroma and flavor of each leaf. They're committed to quality, purity and fair trade, so you know you're getting something really special every time you try one of their teas.

Flavor and experience: Nepal Jasmine Green Tea has a lovely floral aroma with a subtle earthy undertone. The jasmine blossoms add a delicate fragrance while the green tea base offers a smooth, refreshing taste. It's a really light, clean and subtly sweet tea that's perfect for those who prefer an aromatic, pure green tea experience.

Brewing & Serving: To get the best flavor from Danfe Tea’s 22° Nepal Jasmine Green Tea, steep one teaspoon of loose leaf in 8 oz of water heated to 175-185°F (80-85°C) for 2-3 minutes to capture its delicate floral jasmine aroma without bitterness. The tea brews to a pale golden color with a refreshing, subtly sweet character, perfect for quiet mornings or relaxing afternoons. Serve in a clear glass or porcelain cup to showcase its beautiful hue, pairing well with light snacks like fresh fruit, mild cheeses, or delicate pastries. For a cool alternative, brew slightly stronger, chill, and serve over ice with lemon or fresh mint for a revitalizing iced tea ideal for warm days.

10) Somage – Jasmine Green Loose Leaf

Brand overview: Somage is an Australian tea brand that's been around since 2007. They're known for their innovative approach to tea, chai and drinking chocolate - all of which are made using only the very best organic, ethically sourced ingredients. They also really care about the planet, which is why they put sustainable practices right at the heart of everything they do.

Flavor and experience: Somage's Jasmine Green Loose Leaf Tea uses wild jasmine blossoms that've been picked in spring for its delicate and fragrant aroma. When you infuse it, you get this lovely floral scent with soft, sweet notes, while the green tea base provides a smooth, light and refreshing taste. It's an amazing tea that's free from gluten, dairy, and other nasty stuff so it's perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions.

Brewing & Serving: To brew Somage Jasmine green tea, steep one teaspoon of loose leaf in 8 ounces of water heated to 175-185°F for 2-3 minutes, producing a pale green cup with a smooth, calming taste. Enjoy it hot during quiet mornings or afternoons to appreciate its delicate floral aroma and refreshing flavor. This tea pairs well with light snacks like fresh fruit, mild cheeses, or delicate pastries. For a refreshing iced tea, brew it stronger, chill, and serve over ice with lemon or mint to enhance its natural floral notes. Versatile and elegant, it’s perfect for mindful sipping alone or alongside light meals and social gatherings.

Tea-Growing Regions and Brewing Culture

black tea in a cup along a teapot

Japan and China are still the top places where green tea's grown and it's these countries that really know how to get it right. Japanese green teas like Sencha, Gyokuro and Matcha are steamed, giving them that bright green look and a rich, umami taste. Chinese teas like Longjing or Chun Mee are pan-fried, which creates those lovely nutty and toasty flavors. Other countries like Nepal and India are now churning out high-quality green teas too - their teas often combine the floral brightness of that Himalayan air with a smooth, slightly sweet finish.

Green tea enthusiasts around the world brew it in different ways - hot, iced, or mixed with fruit and spices. And then there's blending green tea with other ingredients like fruit, spices or honey to make some really unique drinks!

Whether you drink it hot or iced, green tea's flavor totally changes - it's vegetal and nutty when it's warm, crisp and refreshing when it's cold. Loose-leaf tea is a million times more authentic and complex than those processed or bagged teas - and the aroma's way richer and layered too because whole leaves are being used. Each culture just adapts green tea to its own tastes and food traditions, making it one of the most versatile drinks out there.

FAQ

How to choose the best green tea?

When choosing green tea, think about what flavors you like, such as grassy, nutty, or floral, and whether you want loose leaves or tea bags. Also, look for organic options and trusted brands to get fresh, healthy tea that's right for you.

What is the best green tea for beginners?

Gardenika Green Lemon Ginseng Tea is a light, refreshing choice that’s perfect for those new to green tea. Its bright citrus notes combined with subtle ginseng warmth make it an inviting and easy-to-enjoy brew for anyone.

What are the three types of green tea?

The three main types of green tea are Japanese green tea, Chinese green tea, and Himalayan green tea, each with distinct flavors and processing methods.

What is a pure green tea?

Pure green tea is made from unflavored, minimally processed green tea leaves without added herbs, spices, or flavorings, offering the natural taste of the tea leaves.

Final Notes

Green tea is still charming the world with its pure taste, natural goodness and gentle caffeine. Each of the teas in this 2025 guide offers a unique experience, from Japan's deep umami Sencha to Nepal's floral Himalayan Mist.

Take a look at our full green tea collection at tasteoftea.com. With so many teas to choose from, you'll be sure to find one that fits your taste and lifestyle. Every cup tells a story – refreshing, mindful and perfectly brewed.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general guidance only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Green tea products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Behind the Cup

Man drinking cup of tea

Patrick R.

Patrick is a tea enthusiast who enjoys writing about tea and exploring its rich history, culture, and flavors. He contributes to Taste of Tea by sharing his thoughts, discoveries, and personal insights into the world of tea.

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