Loose leaf Gunpowder organic green tea displayed on a white background, featuring tightly rolled green tea leaves that unfurl during steeping. A classic loose leaf green tea handcrafted in Oregon.
Clear glass mug filled with brewed Gunpowder organic green tea, warm amber-gold in color, resting on a white surface beside a tea infuser. A classic loose leaf green tea ritual handcrafted by Yerba Buena Tea Co.
Black tin of Gunpowder organic loose leaf green tea by Yerba Buena Tea Co. Handcrafted in Oregon.”

Organic Green Tea | Smoky & Bold | Medium Caffeine

Organic Gunpowder Green Tea (Pearls)

The smoky classic. Tightly rolled pearls with a toasted finish.

$18.00 USD
$18.00 USD
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Size: Tea Tin
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About Gunpowder Green

The Smoky Classic

This is one of the most famous teas in the world. Named for its appearance, not its taste, Gunpowder Green is made by rolling tea leaves into tight, tiny pearls that resemble 18th-century gunpowder. This rolling process preserves freshness and creates a bold, slightly smoky flavor profile that is much sturdier than a delicate Sencha.

Why It Works

We source the "Temple of Heaven" grade, which uses smaller, tighter pearls for a higher quality cup. Because the leaves are compressed, they unfurl dramatically in hot water, releasing a deep, coppery liquor with a distinct toasted character. It is robust enough to hold its own against fresh mint and sugar.

The Moroccan Ritual

Make it Maghrebi. Gunpowder is the traditional base for Moroccan Mint Tea. Brew the pearls with a large handful of fresh spearmint and a generous amount of sugar. The smoky sharpness of the tea cuts through the sweetness perfectly.

Organic Ingredients
  • Organic Green Tea
Tasting Notes

Aroma: Smokey and earthy. It smells like roasted vegetables and oak.

Flavor: Bold and assertive. It has a thick, slightly metallic mouthfeel with notes of toasted grain and hickory smoke.

Finish: Crisp and dry, with a lingering sweetness.

Why You'll Love It

Why Rolled?: Rolling the leaves protects them from physical damage and oxidation. This allows Gunpowder tea to stay fresh longer than open-leaf teas, making it a favorite of travelers and traders for centuries.

High Caffeine: Because the pearls are so dense, you fit more leaf into your teaspoon. This results in a cup with a higher caffeine kick than most other green teas.

Black tin of Gunpowder organic loose leaf green tea by Yerba Buena Tea Co. Handcrafted in Oregon.”

Gunpowder Green

$18.00 USD
$18.00 USD

Steep bold. Sip smoke.

Clear glass mug filled with brewed Gunpowder organic green tea, warm amber-gold in color, resting on a white surface beside a tea infuser. A classic loose leaf green tea ritual handcrafted by Yerba Buena Tea Co.

Heritage Brew Guide

Interactive Brew Guide
8 oz
Water Volume
212 °F
Steeping Temperature
1.5 tsp
Tea Leaf Amount
5 min
Steep Time
1 Serving
°F/oz °C/ml

Craft Your Cup

  • The Mint Mixer: This is the *only* green tea strong enough to pair with fresh mint. Use it as the base for any mint-forward iced or hot tea.
  • Cold Brew Pearls: Steep in cold water for 12 hours. The slow extraction minimizes the smokiness and highlights a surprising honey-like sweetness.

Loose leaf Gunpowder organic green tea displayed on a white background, featuring tightly rolled green tea leaves that unfurl during steeping. A classic loose leaf green tea handcrafted in Oregon.

Your Questions About Gunpowder Green, Answered.

Why is it called Gunpowder?

It comes from the shape. The leaves are rolled into tight, grey-green pellets that look like old-fashioned gunpowder shot. When you add hot water, they "explode" (unfurl) into large leaves.

Is it smoky?

Yes. It has a distinct toasted, slightly smoky flavor profile due to the pan-firing process. It is much bolder and earthier than a steamed Japanese green tea.

How do I brew it?

Because the pearls need time to open, you can use slightly hotter water (180°F) than other green teas. Steep for 2-3 minutes. If you want it stronger (for Moroccan Mint), steep for 4-5 minutes.

FAQs Simply Answered

Are YBTCO’s Teas Truly Organic?

Yes, every ingredient we source is certified USDA Organic. Our commitment is to craft our blends using only teas and botanicals from growers whose agricultural practices steward a better tomorrow.

While Yerba Buena Tea Co. as a company has not yet completed its own formal USDA Organic certification, our standards for purity and sustainability are unwavering. When you sip our tea, you’re tasting a commitment to clean soil, fresh air, and the honest labor of growers who share our belief that tea should be as good for the earth as it is for your cup. You can taste this commitment in our Connoisseur Collection.

Where Are Your Teas Blended and Packaged?

Every YBTCO tea is hand-blended in small batches in our dedicated tea kitchen located in beautiful Salem, Oregon.

Our process is slow by design. Blending in small lots allows us to ensure every pouch delivers maximum freshness, flavor, and the just-picked aroma that makes our teas special. It's a level of craftsmanship you can taste in every cup, especially in our Connoisseur Collection. We package each order with care so you can enjoy a touch of the Pacific Northwest, wherever you are.

Do Your Teas Contain Allergens or Gluten?

Your safety and enjoyment matter deeply to us. All YBTCO teas are naturally gluten-free and blended in a dedicated facility that does not process tree nuts (except coconut), wheat, barley, or rye.

The only common allergen you’ll find in our collection is coconut, which we use in select blends like our Maven Blend for its creamy, tropical note. We use no added flavorings, colorings, or artificial ingredients, just whole leaves, spices, and botanicals as nature intended.

If you have specific questions or sensitivities, our team is always happy to help you find the perfect tea with peace of mind. Please feel free to contact us.

What Is Your Tea Refill?

We believe good tea, and good habits, should be sustainable. That’s why YBTCO offers our teas in two forms to reduce waste and keep your tea fresh:

  • Start with a Signature Tin: Our beautiful, reusable, and recyclable tins are perfect for keeping your tea fresh on the shelf. They also make a wonderful present, which is why they are featured in our Gifts for Tea Lovers Collection.

  • Restock with a Refill Bag: When you're running low, simply order a refill bag to top up your tin. Our refill bags use minimal packaging and ensure you always have the freshest possible tea on hand.

This practice means less environmental impact and a ritual that feels good every time you open the lid.

What Is Your Shipping Policy?

We strive to get your tea to you as quickly and efficiently as possible so you can start enjoying it. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Processing Time: All orders are hand-packed with care and typically ship from our Salem, Oregon tea kitchen within 2 - 3 business days.
  • Shipping Methods: We ship via USPS and UPS. You will be able to select your preferred carrier and shipping speed during checkout.
  • Shipping Costs: Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the weight of your order and your location. We offer free standard shipping on all orders over $70.
  • Order Tracking: Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email confirmation with a tracking number so you can follow your tea's journey to your door.

For more detailed information, please view our full Shipping Policy or contact us with any questions.