From the Classroom to the Cup: Our Story
The journey of a teacher who found her passion in sharing the ritual, comfort, and connection of premium organic loose leaf tea.
A Teacher’s Heart, A Lifelong Passion
For ten years, Hannah Sandau dedicated her life to teaching elementary school students. Her classroom was a place of discovery, community, and growth. Through every season of the school year, tea was her quiet ritual—a source of focus on busy mornings, a moment of calm in the afternoon, and a warm comfort on cool Pacific Northwest evenings.
In conversations with parents and friends, she noticed a common thread: a desire to find healthier alternatives to coffee and sugary drinks, coupled with a curiosity about premium loose leaf tea. But that curiosity was often paired with uncertainty. "Where do I even start? How do you brew it?" were questions she heard again and again.
Hannah realized her two passions were one and the same. She could use her teacher's heart to educate, guide, and demystify the world of artisan tea, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Yerba Buena
The Meaning of "Yerba Buena"
The story of Yerba Buena Tea Co. began in 2015. Today, guided by Hannah, our roots are firmly planted in the soil and spirit of Oregon. As an Oregon-based tea company, this connection to place is vital.
"Yerba Buena," Spanish for "the good herb," is also the name of a native mint plant found throughout the West Coast. It is a nod to the region's rich agricultural wisdom and the long history of using plants for wellness. It represents our philosophy: good herbs, good people, and good tea.
Our 3 Core Commitments
Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, a thread connecting cultures and communities. We honor that connection with three simple promises:
Commitment:
Certified Organic & Hand-Crafted Quality
We source only 100% certified organic, small-batch loose leaf teas. This ensures the purest, most robust flavors, free from the dust, fannings, and microplastics found in most conventional tea bags. To deepen her craft and ensure every blend meets the highest standards, Hannah is actively pursuing her certification as a Certified Tea Sommelier through the World Tea Academy.
Commitment:
Community & Tea Education
We want to take the intimidation out of loose leaf. Through tea education and approachability, we help you discover what you love and learn how to brew it with confidence. We believe brewing tea should be a simple, personal ritual that brings you comfort and joy, not a complicated chore.
Commitment:
Sustainable Sourcing & Eco-Friendly Packaging
We are committed to sustainable and ethical sourcing, from supporting the farmers who grow our teas to offering reusable tins and recyclable refill bags. We believe that what is good for the earth is good for the soul.
A Note from Hannah
"My vision is for you to find the same connection, comfort, and ritual in tea that I have. It's more than just a drink; it's a chance to connect with yourself, with the people you share it with, and with the cultures that have cherished it for centuries. Thank you for letting us be a part of your journey."
Begin Your Tea Journey
Not sure where to start? Explore our best-selling organic teas, or visit us in the community!