Testimonials
I have been collecting high mountain oolong teas for years, from dozens of companies, and even have a tea blog. I have been deeply surprised and gratified to be able to obtain several of the best oolongs that I've ever had from Floating Leaves Tea, and at incredibly fair prices too.
When I've called Shiuwen and Noah, they've been completely there for me, and helped me make choices and provided excellent advice on storing tea too.
I am deeply grateful to them and consider Floating Leaves Tea the very best source of superlative oolong in the world.
Hank F.
Psychic, Astrologer, Therapist - Customer Since 2019
A few years ago, Shiuwen started my tea journey in earnest by taking time to listen to what I liked and to explain how to get the most enjoyment out of my favorite teas.
Foremost, she taught me to enjoy the tea in front of me rather than worrying about exact amounts, precise temperatures, and strict steep times. Over the years, Shiuwen has continued to help me define my own tastes and explore the wonderful teas in her shop.
She and her staff are always on the lookout for teas she suspects I may like or appreciate. As a result, my tea taste has been greatly expanded and refined. The quality and variety of Floating Leaves' teas is superb, and the customer service is exemplary.
David D.
Customer Since 2017
I have been a dedicated daily Taiwanese tea drinker since about 2010 and have Floating Leaves Tea to thank for that. From the beginning, Shiuwen helped guide me through the brewing process, helping to raise my tea awareness. I like that I can always count on Shiuwen and Noah to offer honest tea assessments and curate a lineup that I find enjoyable to explore.
Some of my most favorite moments of the day are when I brew their tea. I love how it anchors me.
Chris L.
Customer Since 2010
The finest Taiwanese Oolong outside of Taiwan and something for all levels of tea drinkers! Shiuwen and Noah are constantly sourcing the highest quality of tea while expanding their knowledge each trip back to Taiwan. Excellent customer service and just down to earth, wonderful people!
Steve L.
Customer Since 2011
I cannot remember how long I have followed Floating Leaves. The first time I visited the shop was when Shuiwin was in a different location in Ballard and serving food. The oolongs I tasted were amazing and I have never found a place that provides better oolongs. I always stop by the shop when traveling through Seattle. Floating Leaves searches for the best tea and provides it. Yunnan Gold is a favorite of mine and I know if it is sold out it is because they are looking for the best and will have it once again. A highlight for me was getting to travel with Shuiwin to visit farmers in Taiwan. What a treat to see first hand the production and sip with the farmers, even sitting for a meal with their families. Noah is an amazing addition. It is fun to watch him grow and learn, especially with roasting new teas. When people ask me where to buy tea, Floating Leaves is always on my short list and always #1 for oolongs.
Marilyn M.
16+ Years with FLT
Floating Leaves how do I love you, let me count the ways!
The first time I met Shiuwen was at a tea tasting. I fell in love right away!! She taught me to enjoy tea and not to worry about doing what the infamous “they” said. She taught me to brew tea for me, as I learned this simple and loving way it translates to how I brew for others as well. Yes, I know all about temperatures, how long to brew each tea, how to pour, and I like knowing these things. But I now have a joy that I didn’t have before. Speaking of joy, Shiuwen’s laughter and the way her eyes twinkle make any event even better.
Now enter Noah to the mix. He brings something very special to Floating Leaves. I didn’t think Shiuwen’s smile could get bigger but it did. His knowledge and the desire to help keep traditions alive is so special. With so many elders in Taiwan no longer having family to pass the traditions on, Noah is learning how to process teas and keep this alive for us. Not to mention his teas are so lovely tasting. I especially like his Cascade Dong Ding that he roasted this June (in fact I’m drinking it right now!)
Shiuwen and Noah make you feel like a friend when they see you. Thank you both for making tea such a happy place in my heart.
Tracy B.
Floating Leaves Tea has been my favorite tea shop since 2012. I fully trust Shiuwen and Noah and they have taught me most of what I know about tea and tea brewing. I have loved all the tastings (in-person and online) and getting a package of tea from the shop is like being a kid at Christmas. The online tastings during the pandemic were a lifeline.
You won’t get better tea quality anywhere. Both Shiuwen and Noah can advise you on what teas to buy and how to brew them, and also to develop confidence in your own brewing judgment. And since their knowledge and understanding keeps expanding, I always learn something new about tea when I spend time with them. Thank you for everything!
Ana M.
Hi, Floating Leaves!
I just got back to the states after living in Taiwan for five years, and I needed a quick fix of taiwan tea to ease the homesickness.
I want to say, I could have bought direct from taiwan, but I needed something fast. I had tempered expectations looking for tea in the USA, but the heartwood hongshui oolong blew me away! One of my all-time favorite tea batches! I'm already out of the 30g i bought before, so I just ordered another 150g with the intention of putting it on heavy rotation this fall!
Thank you so much!