Harney & Sons

Pros

• Extensive selection of flavored black teas, including popular blends like Paris, Chestnut, and Victorian London Fog.
• Highly regarded for its Earl Grey variety, offering numerous distinct versions.
• Considered a reliable source for high-quality decaf black teas.
• Accessible and reasonable pricing for those starting with loose leaf tea.

Cons

• Use of plastic pyramid tea bags is a significant point of contention for users concerned about material or flavor impact.
• Green tea selections are occasionally cited as weaker or less impressive than their black tea counterparts.
• Some reports of slow shipping times and inconsistent customer service experiences.
• Perceived by some enthusiasts as a large retailer that lacks the personal relationship and transparency of smaller specialized vendors.

Caveats

• The brand is sometimes viewed as having a 'markup' compared to direct-from-origin sources.
• Details regarding single-origin status or specific harvest flushes are not always clear for all products.
• While generally well-liked, it occasionally receives a 'bad rap' in enthusiast circles for being a mainstream brand.

Best for

• Fans of flavored black teas and unique blends.
• Drinkers looking for a wide variety of Earl Grey options.
• People seeking quality decaf black tea.
• Beginners looking for an accessible entry point into loose leaf tea.

Avoid if

• You strictly avoid plastic pyramid tea bags in favor of paper or loose tea.
• You are primarily looking for high-end or artisanal green teas.
• You prefer supporting small-batch vendors with direct-to-farm relationships.