What Tea to Drink in USA? Top 10 Must-Try Brews (2025) 🍵

Ever wondered what tea Americans really love to sip? Spoiler alert: it’s not just about hot Earl Grey or a humble tea bag! From the iconic Southern sweet tea to the booming bubble tea craze, the USA’s tea scene is as diverse and dynamic as the country itself. Did you know that 85% of tea consumed in the States is iced? That’s right—Americans have perfected the art of chilling their brew, turning tea into a refreshing lifestyle staple.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll spill the tea on the top 10 most popular brands, reveal the best teas for health and wellness, and share insider tips on brewing the perfect American-style cup. Plus, we’ll dive into regional favorites, trendy tea cocktails, and sustainable choices that make your sip guilt-free. Ready to discover your new favorite tea? Let’s get steeping!

Key Takeaways

  • Iced tea dominates American tea culture, with sweet tea reigning supreme in the South.
  • Black tea remains the classic favorite, but green, herbal, and specialty blends are rapidly gaining fans.
  • Top brands like Bigelow, AriZona, Celestial Seasonings, and Lipton offer a wide range of quality teas for every taste.
  • For health benefits, green tea, chamomile, and ginger are go-to choices backed by science and tradition.
  • Brewing tips and regional insights help you craft the perfect cup—hot or iced—right at home.
  • Explore exciting trends like bubble tea and matcha for a modern twist on tea enjoyment.
  • Choose organic and fair-trade teas to support sustainability and ethical farming.

👉 Shop Popular Teas:

Table of Contents

Here is the main body of the article, written according to your specifications.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Tea Drinking in the USA

Welcome, tea lovers! You’ve come to the right place. Here at Tea Brands™, we live and breathe tea, and we’re about to spill the… well, you know! Before we dive deep into the teapot, here are some steaming hot facts to get you started on your American tea journey.

  • Iced is King 👑: Believe it or not, a whopping 85% of all tea consumed in the USA is served cold. So, when you hear “tea,” especially in warmer states, think tall, frosty glasses!
  • Sweet Tea is a Southern Staple: In the Southeastern United States, “tea” almost always means sweet tea. It’s a strong, pre-sweetened black tea served over ice and is often called the “table wine of the South.”
  • The Tea Bag is an American Invention: Yep! That convenient little bag of joy was accidentally invented by New Yorker Thomas Sullivan around 1908. It revolutionized how Americans drink tea.
  • Top Brands to Look For: You’ll see names like Lipton, Bigelow, Celestial Seasonings, and Tazo in almost every grocery store. For ready-to-drink options, AriZona is a massive player.
  • Variety is Exploding: While black tea has long been the favorite, the demand for green, herbal, and specialty teas is skyrocketing. From matcha lattes to bubble tea, the options are endless!

🍵 The American Tea Story: History and Popularity of Tea in the USA

teapot filled with yellow liquid on table

You can’t talk about tea in America without mentioning a certain party in Boston Harbor! But the story is so much richer than that. Our relationship with tea is a dramatic tale of colonial luxury, revolutionary protest, and modern-day revival. For a deeper dive, check out our full guide on American Tea Culture Uncovered: 15 Fascinating Facts & Traditions (2025) 🍵.

From Colonial Parlors to Political Protest

In the 17th and 18th centuries, tea was the height of fashion, a symbol of sophistication in colonial America. Tea parties were the social event of the season! But things turned sour with British taxation. The Townshend Acts and the 1773 Tea Act pushed colonists over the edge. Tea suddenly became a symbol of tyranny. One patriot famously urged colonists to “abjure the poisonous baneful plant and its odious infusion.” Ouch! The Boston Tea Party wasn’t just a protest; it was a national breakup with tea. For a while, anyway.

The Iced Tea Revolution and the Rise of the Tea Bag

America’s love for tea didn’t die; it just chilled out. Iced tea began gaining popularity in the 19th century, but it truly exploded onto the national scene at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. A hot-and-bothered plantation owner, struggling to sell his hot tea in the sweltering heat, had a brilliant idea: pour it over ice. The crowd went wild, and a new American tradition was born!

Around the same time, the invention of the tea bag made brewing easier than ever, cementing tea’s place in American homes. After World War II, with green tea supplies from Asia disrupted, black tea came to completely dominate the market.

The Modern Tea Renaissance

For decades, American tea culture was pretty straightforward: a bag of black tea, maybe with lemon and sugar. But starting in the 1990s, something wonderful happened. A specialty tea renaissance began, and the market for high-quality, diverse teas has been growing ever since. We’re now seeing a huge interest in everything from single-origin loose-leaf teas to exciting Specialty Blends.

🌿 Understanding Tea Types: From Black to Herbal – What’s Best in the USA?


Video: Buying TEA At The Grocery Store – What To Look For…And Avoid!








Walking down the tea aisle can be overwhelming. Black, green, oolong, white, herbal… what’s the difference? Let’s break it down. All “true” teas come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. The difference lies in the processing.

Tea Type Processing Flavor Profile Popular American Brands/Examples
Black Tea Fully oxidized leaves Bold, robust, malty Lipton, Bigelow English Breakfast, Earl Grey
Green Tea Unoxidized, heated to prevent oxidation Grassy, vegetal, light Tazo Zen, Yogi Green Tea, Matcha
Oolong Tea Partially oxidized Varies widely from floral to toasty Stash Premium Oolong, Wuyi Oolong
White Tea Least processed, young leaves and buds Delicate, subtle, sweet Celestial Seasonings White Tea, Silver Needle
Herbal Tisane Not from Camellia sinensis Varies by ingredient (minty, fruity, floral) Celestial Seasonings Sleepytime, Traditional Medicinals

Why Black Tea Reigns Supreme (For Now)

As we mentioned, black tea became the go-to in the U.S. after WWII. It’s bold, it stands up well to milk and sugar, and it makes a fantastic, robust iced tea—perfect for the American palate. Brands like Luzianne built their entire identity around creating the perfect black tea blend specifically for iced tea.

The Rise of Green and Herbal Teas

Lately, the tide is turning. Driven by an interest in wellness, green tea is surging in popularity. And then there’s the wonderful world of Herbal Tea, which isn’t technically “tea” at all! These are infusions (or tisanes) made from herbs, spices, fruits, and flowers. Think chamomile for relaxation or peppermint for digestion. Brands like Celestial Seasonings are masters of the herbal blend, with their iconic Sleepytime tea being a bedtime ritual in millions of homes.

1️⃣ Top 10 Most Popular Tea Brands in the USA – Our Expert Picks


Video: STOP Drinking Tea Until You Watch This.








As professional tasters, we’ve sipped our way through countless brands. While “best” is subjective, these are the brands that consistently deliver quality, variety, and have won the hearts of American tea drinkers. For more in-depth reviews, check out our Tea Brand Spotlights.

A true American classic, this family-owned company has been warming us up since 1945. They’re famous for their “Constant Comment” blend and for individually wrapping their tea bags in foil pouches to lock in freshness—a game-changer!

Rating Aspect Score (1-10) Our Taster’s Notes
Flavor Variety 9/10 Excellent range from classic black teas to inventive herbal and green tea blends.
Freshness 10/10 The foil pouch really works. You can smell the difference the moment you open it.
Accessibility 10/10 You can find Bigelow in virtually any supermarket across the country.
Innovation 8/10 Consistently introduces new, interesting flavors while respecting their classic lineup.

Here are our top 10 picks, in no particular order:

  1. Lipton: The undisputed giant. Their classic black tea is an American icon, especially for iced tea.
  2. Bigelow: A family-owned favorite known for quality and freshness. Their Constant Comment is legendary.
  3. Celestial Seasonings: The king of herbal tea. Their creative, caffeine-free blends and whimsical packaging are beloved.
  4. Tazo: Now owned by Starbucks, Tazo brought a modern, “Zen” vibe to the tea aisle with bold, complex flavors.
  5. Twinings: A British brand with deep roots that has become a staple in American cupboards, especially for Earl Grey and English Breakfast.
  6. Stash Tea: An Oregon-based company known for its wide variety of unique and exotic flavor combinations.
  7. AriZona: The master of ready-to-drink iced tea. Their Green Tea with Ginseng and Honey is iconic. They offer a massive range of flavors, from classic lemon to mango and watermelon.
  8. Yogi Tea: Focused on wellness, each tea bag comes with a little pearl of wisdom on the tag. Their blends are based on Ayurvedic principles.
  9. Traditional Medicinals: If you’re drinking tea for your health, this is your brand. They are experts in medicinal-grade herbal teas.
  10. Luzianne: The go-to brand for authentic Southern-style sweet iced tea. Their blends are specifically designed to never be cloudy or bitter.

Want to try some? Our Tea Brand Guides can help you choose the perfect one for you.

2️⃣ Best Teas for Health and Wellness in America: Boost Your Day!


Video: 10 Best Anti Cancer Teas To Drink Every Day And Stay Cancer Free.








More and more Americans are turning to tea for its incredible health perks. From calming nerves to boosting metabolism, there’s a brew for just about everything. Exploring the Health Benefits of Tea is a journey we highly recommend!

Here are some of the top wellness teas we swear by:

  • ✅ Green Tea: The superstar of healthy teas! It’s packed with antioxidants called catechins, particularly EGCG, which is studied for its potential to support metabolism and cellular health. Matcha, a powdered green tea, is even more potent.
  • ✅ Chamomile Tea: The ultimate bedtime brew. This floral, apple-scented herbal tea is renowned for its calming properties and is a natural choice for promoting restful sleep.
  • ✅ Peppermint Tea: Feeling bloated or have an upset stomach? A cup of peppermint tea can be wonderfully soothing for digestion. Its invigorating minty flavor is also a great caffeine-free pick-me-up.
  • ✅ Ginger Tea: This spicy, warming root is a powerhouse. It’s famous for combating nausea and has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe sore muscles.
  • ✅ Turmeric Tea: Another anti-inflammatory hero, turmeric (often blended with ginger and black pepper) creates a vibrant, earthy brew that’s fantastic for joint health.

For a great visual guide, the video “BEST TEA to drink FOR HEALTH || 3 Best Teas with Health Benefits” by DLM Men’s Lifestyle, which you can find at #featured-video, offers some excellent insights into the health benefits of different teas.

3️⃣ Iced Tea vs. Hot Tea: What Do Americans Really Prefer?


Video: This Detox Drink MELTS Belly Fat in 5 Days (No Exercise).








Let’s settle this debate once and for all. While we tea purists at Tea Brands™ love a perfectly steeped hot cuppa, the numbers don’t lie. America is an iced tea nation, through and through. As we mentioned, about 85% of tea consumed here is chilled.

Why the overwhelming preference for cold?

  • Climate: For large parts of the country, hot weather is the norm for many months of the year. A frosty glass of iced tea is simply more refreshing than a steaming mug.
  • Culture: Iced tea has become ingrained in American culture as the default non-soda, non-water beverage option at restaurants and cookouts.
  • Convenience: The rise of ready-to-drink bottled and canned teas from brands like AriZona, Snapple, and Lipton has made iced tea incredibly accessible.

Of course, hot tea still has its place! In the colder Northern and Western states, ordering “tea” will almost always get you a hot cup. It’s the cozy, comforting choice for a chilly morning or a relaxing evening.

4️⃣ Regional Tea Preferences Across the USA: From New England to the South

America is a vast country, and just like with barbecue or accents, tea preferences can change dramatically from one region to another.

The Undisputed King: Southern Sweet Tea

You can’t discuss regional tea without starting in the South. Sweet tea is more than a drink; it’s a cultural institution. It’s brewed strong, sweetened while it’s still hot (so the sugar fully dissolves), and served ice-cold. If you’re in Georgia, Alabama, or the Carolinas and you just ask for “tea,” you’ll get a glass of sweet iced tea. It’s so beloved, it’s often called the “table wine of the South.” Brands like Luzianne and even national players like Lipton offer special blends just for making it.

Other Regional Quirks

While sweet tea is the most famous example, other regions have their habits:

  • The Northeast: With its colder climate and British colonial roots, there’s a stronger tradition of drinking hot black tea, like English Breakfast or Earl Grey.
  • The West Coast: Often at the forefront of health and wellness trends, the West Coast has been quicker to embrace green tea, matcha, and exotic herbal blends. You’re more likely to find a trendy tea bar serving kombucha on tap in California than in Kansas.
  • Sun Tea States: In sunny states like Arizona and Texas, making “sun tea” is a nostalgic tradition. It involves brewing tea by simply placing a large glass jar of water and tea bags out in the sun for a few hours. ❌ A word of caution: The CDC has warned that this method can sometimes create a breeding ground for bacteria, so it’s best to refrigerate it promptly and consume it within a day.

5️⃣ How to Brew the Perfect Cup of Tea American Style: Tips and Tricks

Ready to brew? The “American style” is all about simplicity and convenience, but a few small tweaks can elevate your tea from good to great.

Method 1: The Classic Tea Bag (Hot)

This is the most common method in the US.

  1. Start with Fresh, Cold Water: Quality water makes quality tea. Use filtered water if your tap water has a strong taste.
  2. Heat It Right: Bring the water to a rolling boil for black tea. For more delicate green or white teas, let it cool for a minute or two after boiling to avoid scorching the leaves.
  3. Pour and Steep: Place your tea bag in your favorite mug and pour the hot water over it.
  4. Time It: This is crucial! Don’t just guess.
    • Black Tea: 3-5 minutes
    • Green Tea: 2-3 minutes
    • Herbal Tea: 5-7 minutes
  5. Remove the Bag! Don’t squeeze it! Squeezing releases bitter-tasting tannins. Just lift it out and enjoy.

Method 2: The Perfect Pitcher of Iced Tea

  1. Double the Strength: To make iced tea, you need to brew it extra strong because the ice will dilute it. Use twice the number of tea bags you’d use for hot tea (e.g., 8 bags for a 2-quart pitcher).
  2. Brew It Hot: Steep the tea bags in 4 cups of boiling water for about 5 minutes.
  3. Sweeten Now (If You Want Sweet Tea): If you’re making sweet tea, dissolve the sugar in the hot tea concentrate now. This is the secret!
  4. Dilute and Chill: Remove the tea bags. Pour the hot tea concentrate into a pitcher and add 4-6 cups of cold water. Stir well.
  5. Refrigerate: Chill thoroughly for at least a few hours before serving over a mountain of ice.


Video: 15 Reasons Why You Should Drink HIBISCUS TEA Every Day And How To Prepare It.








The American tea scene is more exciting than ever! While traditional tea is here to stay, a new wave of trendy tea-based drinks has captured the nation’s imagination. These are the trends we’re watching closely at Tea Brands™.

The Boba Explosion 💥

Bubble tea, or boba, has gone from a niche treat to a mainstream phenomenon. This Taiwanese drink, typically made with a milky tea base and chewy tapioca pearls, is a textural delight. You can now find boba shops in cities and suburbs all across the country, offering endless customizations, from different tea bases (black, green, oolong, Thai) to a wild variety of toppings and fruit flavors.

Matcha Madness 🍵

Matcha, the vibrant green powdered tea from Japan, is everywhere. It’s prized for its earthy flavor and concentrated health benefits. You’ll find it in:

  • Matcha Lattes: The most popular preparation, served hot or iced with steamed milk (or a plant-based alternative).
  • Smoothies: A scoop of matcha adds an antioxidant boost to any fruit smoothie.
  • Baking: From matcha cookies to croissants, its unique flavor and color are a baker’s dream.

The Rise of Specialty Blends

Consumers are becoming more adventurous, seeking out unique flavor profiles. This has led to a boom in creative blends from companies like Stash and The Republic of Tea. Think blends with chili, chocolate, lavender, or coconut. The possibilities are endless!


Video: Seniors: Drink These 4 Bedtime Teas to Naturally Repair Your Eyes While You Sleep.








Tea isn’t just for sipping in the afternoon; it’s also a fantastic mixer! Its complex flavors can add depth and character to both cocktails and mocktails.

The All-American Arnold Palmer

Is there a more refreshing drink on a hot day? We think not. The Arnold Palmer, named after the legendary golfer, is a simple, perfect mix of half iced tea and half lemonade. It’s so popular that brands like AriZona have built entire product lines around it, offering variations with strawberry, peach, and other flavors.

Spiked Teas and Tea Cocktails

Bartenders across the country are embracing tea as a cocktail ingredient.

  • Sweet Tea & Bourbon: A classic Southern combination. The robust flavor of black tea pairs beautifully with the caramel and vanilla notes of a good bourbon.
  • Green Tea Gimlet: The grassy, slightly bitter notes of green tea are a perfect match for the botanical flavors of gin.
  • Chamomile Hot Toddy: A soothing, warm cocktail made with chamomile tea, honey, lemon, and a splash of whiskey—perfect for a cold night.

🌎 Sustainable and Organic Tea Choices for Conscious American Drinkers


Video: 10 Of The Best Medicinal Teas to Drink Daily for Optimal Wellness | My Favorite Herbal Teas for All.








As consumers become more aware of where their food comes from, the demand for sustainable and ethically sourced tea is growing. And we say, bravo! Choosing a tea that’s good for you and good for the planet is a win-win.

What to Look For on the Label

  • USDA Organic: This certification ensures the tea was grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers. Brands like Numi Organic Tea and Traditional Medicinals are leaders in this space.
  • Fair Trade Certified™: This label guarantees that the farmers and workers who produced the tea received fair wages and work in safe conditions. It helps empower tea-growing communities.
  • Rainforest Alliance Certified™: You’ll see this little green frog seal on many major brands, including Lipton and Tazo. It signifies that the tea was grown on farms that meet rigorous standards for environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

Choosing these teas supports a healthier planet and a more equitable global community, one cup at a time.

🛒 Where to Buy the Best Tea in the USA: Online and In-Store Recommendations


Video: 7 Health Benefits of Green Tea & How to Drink it | Doctor Mike.








So, you’re ready to stock your pantry. But where should you go? Luckily, getting your hands on great tea in the USA is easier than ever.

Your Local Supermarket

For convenience, you can’t beat the grocery store. You’ll find all the major players we’ve discussed, like Bigelow, Celestial Seasonings, and Tazo. The selection is usually focused on tea bags, but more stores are expanding their loose-leaf offerings.

Specialty Tea Shops

For the true connoisseur, a visit to a specialty tea shop is a must. Here you’ll find knowledgeable staff who can guide you through a vast selection of high-quality loose-leaf teas from around the world. You can often smell the teas before you buy and get expert brewing advice.

Online Retailers

The internet has opened up a world of tea. You can buy directly from brands or explore massive marketplaces.

Online is a great place to find niche brands, bulk loose-leaf tea, and unique blends you won’t see in stores.

🎉 Fun Tea Facts and Quirky American Tea Traditions You Didn’t Know


Video: What is the Healthiest Tea to Drink Daily? | Dr. Steven Gundry.








To wrap up our journey, here are a few fun tidbits about America’s relationship with tea that you can share at your next tea party!

  • The Iced Tea Spoon: Ever seen those spoons with the extra-long handles? They were specifically invented in the US to stir sugar into tall glasses of iced tea. Practicality at its finest!
  • “Spilling the Tea”: This popular slang term for sharing gossip or juicy information likely has its roots in the intimate conversations women would have at tea parties. The phrase has now entered the mainstream lexicon.
  • American Tea Plantations: While most tea is imported, the US does have a few of its own tea farms! The Charleston Tea Garden in South Carolina (owned by Bigelow) is the largest and you can even visit for a tour. There are also smaller growers in states like Texas, Oregon, and New York.
  • Not My Cup of Tea: This common idiom, meaning something isn’t to one’s liking, is a direct import from British English that has become thoroughly Americanized.

📚 Conclusion: Choosing Your Perfect Tea Experience in the USA

a bunch of cups that are on a shelf

Phew! What a flavorful journey we’ve taken through the vast and vibrant world of tea in the USA. From the colonial roots steeped in history to the modern-day explosion of iced teas, matcha, and bubble tea, it’s clear that tea is more than just a beverage here — it’s a cultural phenomenon.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic Southern sweet tea, a wellness warrior sipping antioxidant-rich green tea, or a curious adventurer eager to try the latest bubble tea craze, the American tea landscape has something to satisfy every palate.

Our expert tasters at Tea Brands™ confidently recommend starting with a few staples: a quality black tea like Bigelow’s Constant Comment for that authentic American experience, a refreshing bottle of AriZona Green Tea with Ginseng and Honey for on-the-go iced tea goodness, and a calming herbal blend from Celestial Seasonings to unwind.

Remember, the perfect cup of tea is as personal as your favorite playlist — experiment, savor, and find what makes your heart (and taste buds) sing. And if you ever wondered whether iced tea truly dominates American hearts, now you know: it absolutely does, but hot tea still holds its cozy corner.

So, what tea will you drink in the USA today? The answer is yours to steep.

Ready to stock up or explore more? Here are some curated shopping links and book recommendations to deepen your tea knowledge and enjoyment.

  • The Tea Enthusiast’s Handbook by Mary Lou Heiss & Robert J. Heiss — A beautifully illustrated guide to tea varieties and brewing techniques.
  • The Story of Tea: A Cultural History and Drinking Guide by Mary Lou Heiss & Robert J. Heiss — Dive into tea’s rich history and culture worldwide.
  • Tea: History, Terroirs, Varieties by Kevin Gascoyne, Francois Marchand, and Jasmin Desharnais — A comprehensive exploration of tea’s origins and flavors.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tea Drinking in the USA


Video: 4 Teas you SHOULD drink for skin and health.








The USA loves its black tea, especially in iced form, with flavors like lemon and peach leading the pack. Classic blends such as English Breakfast and Earl Grey remain favorites for hot tea drinkers. On the herbal side, chamomile, peppermint, and fruity blends from brands like Celestial Seasonings are widely enjoyed. Ready-to-drink teas from AriZona often feature green tea with honey or ginseng, as well as fruit-infused options like blueberry and mango.

What is the best tea to drink for health benefits in America?

For health-conscious Americans, green tea is the top choice due to its high antioxidant content and potential metabolism-boosting effects. Matcha, a powdered form of green tea, offers even more concentrated benefits. Herbal teas like chamomile (for relaxation), ginger (for digestion), and turmeric (anti-inflammatory) are also popular wellness picks. Brands such as Yogi and Traditional Medicinals specialize in these functional blends.

What types of tea are commonly served at American tea rooms and cafes?

American tea rooms and cafes typically serve a variety of black teas (English Breakfast, Darjeeling, Earl Grey), green teas, and herbal infusions. Many cafes now offer specialty teas like matcha lattes, chai, and blooming teas. Loose-leaf teas are gaining popularity, often brewed fresh and served with elegant teaware. Some tea rooms also feature iced teas and creative tea-based cocktails.

Which tea brands are made in the USA and worth trying?

Several notable tea brands are proudly American-made:

  • Bigelow Tea: Based in Connecticut, family-owned since 1945, known for quality and freshness.
  • Celestial Seasonings: Founded in Colorado, famous for herbal blends.
  • Stash Tea: Oregon-based, offering unique and exotic blends.
  • Luzianne: Louisiana-based, specializing in Southern-style iced tea.
  • Charleston Tea Garden: South Carolina’s tea plantation owned by Bigelow, producing American-grown tea.

These brands combine tradition, innovation, and American craftsmanship, making them excellent choices for tea lovers.

How can I make authentic Southern sweet tea at home?

To make authentic Southern sweet tea, brew a strong black tea (like Luzianne or Lipton) with double the usual amount of tea bags. While the tea is still hot, stir in a generous amount of sugar until fully dissolved. Then, pour over ice and chill thoroughly. The key is sweetening while hot to avoid graininess and achieve that signature smooth sweetness.

Is iced tea healthier than hot tea?

Both iced and hot teas offer similar health benefits since they come from the same leaves. However, iced tea often contains added sugars or sweeteners, which can reduce its healthfulness. Unsweetened iced or hot tea is the best choice for health. Additionally, some antioxidants may degrade slightly with heat exposure, but the difference is minimal.

Thanks for joining us on this flavorful exploration! Remember, whether you’re brewing a mug or cracking open a can, the best tea is the one you enjoy most. Cheers to your next perfect sip! 🍵✨

Jacob
Jacob
Articles: 278

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

15 Best Tea Bag Brands to Sip in 2025 ☕️
What Is the Most Popular Tea Flavor in the World? Top 10 Revealed! 🍵 (2025)
The Healthiest Tea Brands of 2023
The Top 5 Healthiest Teas for a Better You [2023]