Manderley Exotic Teas
Who creates the blends?
We do.
Where are the ingredients from?
Tea leaves (camellia sinensis) are sourced seasonally and directly from the farms that grow them in small batches. These farms are located all around the world. The bulk of our teas originate from China, India, and Korea. Limited selections that are on rotation often originate from Kenya, Taiwan, and Nepal. This list is an example and is always changing. Sourcing quality is what got Manderley started and will always be what sets us apart.
All non-caffeinated herbal ingredients are also sourced globally.
Will you start growing your own ingredients?
Absolutely not. We are not a farm. We cannot even keep succulents alive.
How many servings are in a bottle?
The exact number of recommended servings in a bottle will depend on the net weight of the content. Generally we recommend 3/4 - 1 teaspoon of tea per cup of water. An ounce of tea is roughly 10 to 12 teaspoons.
Please keep in mind that there is no exact science behind measuring a single serving of tea, and it can vary heavily based on tea type and personal taste preferences.
I have never tried loose leaf tea before...
Manderley is a good place to start. In fact, we will set the bar very high for you, which is a good thing.
You taste buds will immediately notice the difference between loose leaf and store-brand tea bags.
What sets loose leaf tea apart from store-bought tea bags?
Carefully sourced loose leaf tea, such as the ones here at Manderley, are trimmed from the top of the tea plant, commonly comprised of two leaves and one bud. Each farm and tea growing region have unique topographies and processing techniques that will yield a specific flavor that can be traced back to its origin.
Common store-brand tea bags are made from combining broken pieces of tea leaves from multiple farms and even country of origin, as long as the flavor categories match. They sit in warehouses before going through additional factory processing. In the end, most flavors have been lost so the tannins, the bitter ingredient, taste harsher.
In simpler terms, think fresh gourmet ingredients versus day-old scraps.
Do you offer tea bags?
No, and we do not plan to either. The main reason is environmental and health concerns since many tea bags still contain microplastics. Although some newer tea bags are made with more natural ingredients, we still hate the idea of our tea leaves being constricted and not allowed ample space to fully open and release its flavors.
I do not have anything to make tea in. What do I need to buy?
Do you have a mug, and a kettle or pot to boil water? If yes, then you have everything you need to enjoy loose leaf tea. No need to spend money on new wares that you might never end up using.
Which specific teawares do you recommend?
We think your favorite mug works perfectly fine. However, an affordable french press works wonderfully too. It allows for larger servings, keeps tea leaves separated on the bottom while giving them ample space to open fully.
We don't mind french presses because it's a common household item that might already be in your kitchen. Aside from that, we don't think very highly of pricey, over-engineered modern teawares and view them as a gimmick.
I do not know anything about tea, and I am intimidated by tea culture. But I am cautiously curious and willing to learn more...
This is why we insist on foregoing unnecessary and pricey teaware for now. And while we do provide detailed steeping instructions, we also encourage "eye balling" when it comes to serving size and water temperature. Tea should be simple and welcoming. All you need is a cup and hot water, and you will learn from there. Do not overthink it.
Any recommendations for coffee people transitioning to tea?
Absolutely. The Night Circus has the flavor of coffee and plenty of caffeine.
Who comes up with the names for the teas?
We do. It is the best part about this job.
Who is "we"?
Just me.
Where else are your products sold?
Manderley Exotic Teas is sold exclusively through our official online store affiliated with Calico Society and in person at pop-ups and expos, which are announced on Instagram.
We do not, nor will we ever, sell on Amazon or Etsy.
We are in the process of opening wholesale channels with local small businesses. An official list of authorized partners will be published soon.
Where do you ship to?
We only ship within the United States, with some exclusions.
Within the U.S., shipping is available to the 48 contiguous states, Alaska, and Washington, D.C.
Shipping is currently unavailable to Hawaii, U.S. territories, military addresses (APO/FPO/DPO), and all other international addresses.
As our small business grows, we hope to expand our shipping destinations in the future.
What is your shipping & return policy?
(As of 8/22/2026, there is a 2 week lead time for orders placed on Manderley Exotic Teas.)
Orders will ship within 2-3 business days, excluding holidays. If processing time is expected to take longer, notices will be posted throughout the shop.
Shipping costs are non-refundable. If an order is returned by carrier because of an incorrect or incomplete address, the customer may be responsible for the cost of re-shipping. Carrier delays are outside of Calico Society/Manderley Exotic Teas' control.
We do not accept returns. Please read each product description carefully, and if unsure, ask us more questions before purchasing. You can always contact us for additional customer support. We want to communicate and be helpful.