The Best Rooibos Tea Brands of 2023

Rooibos tea, a South African specialty, is an herbal infusion made from the leaves of the Aspalathus linearis bush. This unique plant produces a beverage recognized for its deep red hue and slightly sweet, nutty flavor. 

After extensive testing of different types of rooibos (red and green), forms (loose leaf, tea bags), flavors (pure, flavored, chai), and varying price points, we’ve selected the crème de la crème of rooibos tea brands for your consideration in 2023.

These are the best rooibos teas on the market:

The 8 Best Rooibos Teas

Rooibos teas offer a diverse array of taste experiences and health benefits. Of dozens of options we have tested, these are the best rooibos teas you will find.

1. The Republic of Tea, Organic Double Red Rooibos Tea Bags – Best Rooibos Tea Overall

The Republic of Tea Organic Double Red Rooibos Tea Bags is a caffeine-free alternative to traditional tea. This product, which we found to be the best rooibos tea of all the options we tested, derives its uniqueness from the careful blend of organic rooibos leaves and ground rooibos. The packaging includes a tin that contains 36 tea bags.

This tea produces a distinct red color upon brewing, characteristic of rooibos tea. It boasts a full-bodied flavor that can be appreciated independently or paired with milk and honey for a more complex taste profile. This rooibos tea originates from South Africa and has an earthy and sweet flavor.

Powdered on purpose, the product utilizes ground rooibos and leaves to ensure consumers reap the maximum antioxidant benefits. This deliberate design also results in a faint red cloud of powder that may settle at the bottom of your cup.

The Republic of Tea’s Organic Double Red Rooibos Tea Bags is an organic product. It is certified as Kosher, gluten-free, carb-free, sugar-free, and QAI Organic. It has been recognized as one of Prevention’s 100 Cleanest Packaged Foods.

Pros

• The product offers a robust, hearty flavor and good aroma, which many tea drinkers will find appealing.
• Red tea is a pleasant alternative to green tea, coffee, or other caffeinated beverages.
• The tea bags are easy and clean to use, making the brewing process convenient.
• This rooibos tea can enhance the taste of meals.
• The tea can be served hot and cold, making it versatile for different seasons.
• A good pre-bedtime pleaser as it has calming and relaxing properties.

Cons

• Some customers may be disappointed in the flavor, finding it different from the expected taste of Red Rooibos tea.
• Compared to other brands, these tea bags are smaller and may require more bags for a strong flavor.
• Due to its unique taste, it might not be an ideal choice for first-time Rooibos tea drinkers.
• This tea is on the pricier side.

2. Buddha Teas Organic Rooibos Red Tea – Runner-up

Buddha Teas Organic Rooibos Red Tea comes in 18 teabags per box, each containing organic rooibos, and the tea bags are free of bleach.

This rooibos tea by Buddha Teas is certified kosher and organic. Also, it accommodates a variety of dietary preferences being caffeine-free and plant-based. The company pays special attention to the quality of its products, utilizing fresh, organic, or wild-harvested plants.

The packaging is eco-friendly, with the tea bags made from the abaca plant’s 100% bleach-free cellulose fibers. However, care is needed when handling the tea bags as they might tear, leading to loose leaves spilling out.

The recommended steeping instructions for this rooibos tea involve using hot water at temperatures of 205°-212° F and allowing the tea to steep for 3-6 minutes. This process is believed to extract the best flavors from the tea. Despite this, the strength of the flavor varies according to individual preferences, with some people may find it necessary to use more than one tea bag to achieve a stronger taste.

In terms of flavor, this organic rooibos tea can be seen as a good representative of the best rooibos teas, characterized by a unique and earthy taste. It’s important to consider that taste is subjective, and while many will enjoy its flavor, some might find it too mild or not to their liking.

Pros

• The tea offers a superb, earthy taste that strikes the right balance, never appearing overly tart.
• This tea possesses calming properties that may aid relaxation.
• Being organically sourced and pure, it caters to the demands of health-conscious consumers.
• The packaging is thoughtfully designed, further enhancing the product’s overall appeal.
• Considering the quantity provided, the pricing of the tea presents a fair deal.
• This tea is gentle on the teeth, reducing the risk of stains typically associated with regular tea consumption.

Cons

• The tea might fall short on taste for those seeking a more robust flavor.
• Some may find the amount of tea in each bag less than ideal.

3. U.S. Wellness Naturals Organic Red Rooibos Loose-Leaf Tea – Best Loose-Leaf Rooibos Tea

The U.S. Wellness Naturals Organic Red Rooibos Loose-Leaf Tea is the best loose-leaf rooibos tea sourced from the endemic “red bush” plants in South Africa’s mountainous region of Cederberg. This unique tea, known by natives as the “long-life” tea, boasts a deep red hue and a distinct aroma resulting from the fermentation of its carefully cut leaves.

The 1LB (16oz) bag contains medium-cut loose-leaf tea, promising up to 200+ servings. The leaves are USDA-certified organic, adhering to the highest organic cultivation and packaging standards. This organic certification also assures no GMO ingredients in the tea, making it an excellent alternative for green and black tea enthusiasts.

Furthermore, this Rooibos tea is ideal for individuals adhering to a Keto diet, as it is free from calories, caffeine, and oxalic acid. It also has a low tannin content which contributes to its smooth taste. The tea is packed in a triple-layer oxygen diffusion barrier bag designed to maintain freshness over an extended period, preserving the beneficial attributes of Rooibos tea.

However, it’s essential to note that the Rooibos tea’s particles are finely cut and may require a super-fine strainer for brewing. Some users may find this finer cut challenging to work with if they are used to larger tea leaf particles. Despite this, the fine texture does not compromise the taste or aroma, allowing users to enjoy a full-bodied and flavorful brew.

Regarding taste, the U.S. Wellness Naturals Organic Red Rooibos Loose-Leaf Tea has a sweet and robust flavor that can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with milk and sugar. This blend will satisfy your taste and offer an exquisite tea-drinking experience.

Pros

• Excellent and robust flavor.
• Provides a caffeine-free alternative to traditional teas and coffee.
• Can be brewed strong and holds up well to additions like milk and sugar.
• Has a fresh and sweet aroma.
• Good value for the quantity provided.
• It is organic, adding to its health benefits.

Cons

• The grind of the tea is too fine, leading to difficulties during brewing and potential residue in the cup.
• Some tea drinkers may need to use more of the product to reach their desired strength.
• It can be challenging to handle as it clings to various surfaces and measuring tools.
• Requires a super fine strainer to avoid residue, which could be an additional investment for some customers.

4. The Republic Of Tea, Republic Chai Red Tea Bags – Best Rooibos Chai Tea

The Republic Of Tea, Republic Chai Red Tea Bags blends rooibos tea with various spices, including cinnamon, orange peel, ginger, cardamom seeds, Chinese star anise, cloves, and black pepper. This combination offers a taste profile that is an interesting play between rooibos’ mellow sweetness and the included spices’ distinct characteristics.

The product comes in a tin with 50 tea bags and offers a measured way to prepare your beverage without the mess of loose tea leaves. The suggested steeping instructions involve boiling fresh, filtered water and letting the tea steep for 5-7 minutes.

This rooibos chai tea is devoid of carbohydrates, gluten, and sugar, which benefits those with specific dietary restrictions. Moreover, rooibos tea is naturally caffeine-free, potentially making it a suitable option for those who prefer to limit their caffeine intake.

However, the subtleness of this product’s chai flavor could be underwhelming for some, particularly those who enjoy a stronger, more robust chai taste. In terms of cost, the price per cup is higher than some alternatives in the market. Nonetheless, for those who appreciate a balanced spice blend and value the convenience of tea bags, this product is worth consideration.

Notably, this tea’s ingredients are sourced from South Africa and other parts of the world, suggesting a blend of influences in the final product. With this mixture, the Republic Chai Red Tea Bags offer an experience that can be likened to the best rooibos chai tea – a flavor that is neither too spicy nor too bland, offering a well-rounded sensory experience with every cup.

Pros

• The tea has a pleasant taste that many will find appealing.
• It comes in a handy container, making it easy to store and use.
• The product is versatile and can be enjoyed anytime, hot or cold.

Cons

• Some users may find the chai flavor to be weaker than expected.
• The product is on the pricier side.

5. Rooibos Rocks, Organic Green Rooibos Tea Bags – Best Green Rooibos Tea

Rooibos Rocks’ Organic Green Rooibos Tea Bags offers green Rooibos tea, an unfermented variant of the traditional red Rooibos Tea that is lighter in the body and features a natural sweetness. The green Rooibos tea is unique to the Cederberg region of South Africa, an area recognized globally for its biodiversity.

The packaging contains 40 biodegradable tagless tea bags. These are not individually wrapped but are secured in two foil pouches, each containing 20 tea bags. The tea bags are filled with USDA Organic certified 100% organic Rooibos (Aspalathus Linearis), signifying its high-quality origins.

This green Rooibos tea is caffeine-free; therefore, it can be enjoyed at any time of the day without disrupting sleep patterns. Furthermore, it can be consumed hot or cold, providing versatility for different preferences and weather conditions.

However, the product’s taste might not be universally appealing, especially for those used to traditional teas. Similarly, the packaging might not be optimal for long-term freshness since the tea bags are not individually wrapped.

Despite this, this is the best green Rooibos tea we have tasted among many options.

Pros

• The tea boasts a unique, smooth flavor, reminiscent of green tea but devoid of any bitterness, which is truly a sensory delight.
• Its caffeine-free nature is a significant benefit, particularly for those sensitive to caffeine or considering limiting their intake.
• The quality of this product appears to be high, making it stand out in the market of similar teas.
• The packaging is minimalist, reflecting a commendable commitment to environmental sustainability.
• The taste of this tea is satisfyingly rich without being overly sweet or grassy, offering a unique flavor profile.

Cons

• There’s an issue with the tea bag’s durability, as they might rip when boiling.
• The lack of individual wrapping for the tea bags could pose a challenge in keeping the unused bags fresh once the pack is opened.
• The pricing might be high for some consumers.

6. The Republic of Tea, Good Hope Vanilla Red Tea Bags – Best Flavored Rooibos Tea

The Republic of Tea’s Good Hope Vanilla Red Tea Bags provides a uniquely rich and flavorful cup of tea, combining the earthy smoothness of rooibos, or red tea, with a gentle hint of sweet, fragrant vanilla. This best flavored rooibos tea is sourced from the indigenous rooibos plant of the Cape region of South Africa, including The Cape of Good Hope, infusing every cup with a sense of authenticity and natural goodness.

The tea comes in the convenient form of tea bags, making it easy to steep. Each tin contains 36 tea bags, offering a substantial amount for tea enthusiasts. The simple steeping process, involving fresh, filtered water and a steeping time of 5-7 minutes, ensures an excellent-tasting tea with minimal effort.

Good Hope Vanilla Red Tea showcases a bright, inviting aroma with a hint of vanilla that doesn’t overpower the natural scent of the rooibos. The taste is warm, sweet, and satisfying, setting it apart as the best vanilla rooibos tea in its class.

This naturally caffeine-free tea is perfect for any time of the day, offering a healthy and calming beverage alternative. It is carb, sugar, and gluten-free, ensuring a guilt-free experience for those with dietary restrictions.

With zero calories and a blend that does not contain dairy, it offers a well-balanced, healthful choice for any tea lover.

Pros

• Excellent flavor with the right amount of richness.
• A great option for a relaxing evening drink due to its decaffeinated nature.
• The tea’s vanilla notes enhance its taste without overpowering it.
• High antioxidant content, which can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
• The product is reasonably priced, considering its quality.
• It comes from a reputable brand that consistently offers high-quality teas.
• The packaging and container quality are appreciated, adding to the overall experience.

Cons

• Some customers may find the product a bit pricey despite its quality.
• The flavor can be too strong for some, particularly those used to black and green tea.
• The vanilla flavor was not strong enough for some customers.

7. Cederberg Tea Company, Organic Red Rooibos Tea Bags – Good Choice Overall

The Cederberg Tea Company Organic Red Rooibos Tea Bags is a meticulously curated blend of the best-tasting rooibos teas, handpicked at peak maturity from the Western Cape of South Africa. This pack comes with 100 USDA and EU Organic certified tea bags, each containing 2.5 grams of top fine-cut rooibos needles – more than half a pound of premium rooibos in total. The tea bags, crafted from biodegradable and compostable heat-sealed filter paper, are durable and environmentally friendly.

When brewed, this rooibos tea presents a deep amber color, embodying a bold, full-bodied flavor. Unlike other teas, it can be steeped for an extended period without developing any bitterness, owing to its low tannin content. This makes it an excellent choice for those who relish rich, complex flavors in their tea. Despite its robust flavor, it is delightfully caffeine-free and keto-friendly, serving as a satisfying alternative to coffee and other teas.

The tea bags are sealed in five foil pouches of twenty, ensuring optimal freshness and quality.

Pros

• Provides a unique and generally enjoyable flavor.
• Suitable for consumption both hot and cold.
• Well-packaged, allowing for frequent usage without degrading.
• Consistent quality across multiple orders.
• Easy to brew.

Cons

• Acquired taste; the flavor might not be for everyone initially.
• Emits a strong odor that some may find off-putting.
• The tea is capable of staining cups significantly, requiring additional cleaning.
• Tea bags are connected in twos, which might be difficult to separate without tearing.
• Packaging, once opened, isn’t resealable, which could affect freshness.
• Contains no string and tab attached to the tea bags, potentially decreasing convenience in brewing.

8. Harney & Sons Organic Rooibos Tea Bags – Good Choice Overall

The Organic Rooibos Tea by Harney & Sons is an herbal beverage packaged in a box containing 20 individual tea bags. The tea is made from finely cut organic rooibos, a legume native to South Africa, also known as “Red Bush.” Upon brewing, it yields a medium-dark brown liquor that is light-bodied and caffeine-free.

The aroma of this Rooibos tea is slightly earthy. At the same time, the flavor profile carries notes of nuttiness and earthiness, rendering a refreshing taste. It’s suggested to brew this tea for 5 minutes at 212º. However, due to its mild taste, it might not satisfy those in search of a strong, robust flavor.

In terms of ingredients, this product is composed solely of organic rooibos. It’s USDA-certified organic, gluten-free, and plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

The tea bags are individually wrapped, which is a practical feature for travel or sharing. Still, it’s worth noting that the packaging is a bit fragile, resulting in damage during delivery.

In short, Harney & Sons’ Organic Rooibos Tea is a good option for those who prefer a mild, caffeine-free beverage. Nonetheless, its flavor might be too subtle for those accustomed to strong teas, and its packaging could be more durable.

Pros

• The rooibos tea is known for its soothing attributes and potential to induce a calming effect.
• Its unique flavor profile stands out, featuring smooth, authentic, and slightly fruity and floral notes.
• The tea may contribute to improved sleep patterns and stress reduction.
• Sweeteners are not required for this tea; however, it pairs well with honey or sugar according to personal preferences.
• Serving as a decaffeinated alternative to traditional black tea, it doesn’t have a drying effect on the mouth.
• Convenience is key with this product, as it comes in teabag format, simplifying the preparation process.

Cons

• The flavor intensity of this tea might be perceived as weaker when compared to other rooibos brands.
• The taste and smell could be considered medicinal, which might not be preferable to all consumers.
• Packaging could be improved to better protect the product during transportation.
• The product packaging lacks a clear expiration date, leading to concerns about product freshness.
• The price point of the product might be considered high by some consumers.

How We Selected the Best Rooibos Teas

In our mission to find the best rooibos tea brands, we tasted dozens of varieties, considering their type, form, flavor, and price. We’ve gone the extra mile to ensure we’re recommending the best.

Type of Rooibos

Rooibos tea comes in two main types: red and green. Red rooibos is the more common and familiar version, known for its rich color and sweet flavor. Green rooibos, on the other hand, is less oxidized, offering a grassier taste and higher antioxidant levels. Both offer their unique charms and health benefits, and the best rooibos tea for you depends on your taste preference.

Form

Rooibos tea is available in various forms: loose-leaf and tea bags. Loose-leaf rooibos offers the freshest and richest flavor, as it is less processed than bagged versions. Tea bags provide convenience and consistency, perfect for those who enjoy their rooibos on the go. Both forms were considered in our search for the best rooibos teas, keeping quality and convenience in mind.

Flavor

Many rooibos tea brands offer a range of flavors. Pure rooibos is perfect for those who appreciate the tea’s natural, slightly sweet and nutty flavor. For those looking for a twist, flavored rooibos, such as vanilla or chai, adds a new dimension to the classic rooibos profile. Each flavor brings a unique taste experience, enhancing the versatility of this beloved tea.

Price

The price of rooibos tea can vary widely based on factors such as brand, quality, and packaging. A rough price estimation can be gauged by calculating the cost per cup. Some premium brands may have a higher upfront cost but offer a superior taste and quality experience. Budget options, while more affordable, might not offer the same depth of flavor.

Tips for Choosing the Best Rooibos Teas

Finding your personal best rooibos tea can be an adventure in flavor, aroma, and wellness. Here are some key tips for your rooibos tea selection journey to set you on the right path.

• Understand Your Preference: Rooibos tea comes in red and green variants. The red variant has a deeper, sweeter flavor, while the green variant has a more grassy, herbal taste. Identifying your flavor preference will be the first step in finding the best rooibos tea for you.
• Consider the Form: Loose-leaf teas often provide the freshest and richest flavor profile. In contrast, tea bags offer convenience and consistency. If you’re a purist who values the subtleties of taste, go for loose-leaf. If you value ease and speed, tea bags may be your best choice.
• Check the Origin: The best rooibos teas are usually grown in their native South Africa, particularly in the Cederberg region. Teas from this region are renowned for their quality and flavor.
• Look for Organic: Organic rooibos teas are free from pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, offering a cleaner, healthier brew. Opt for the best organic rooibos tea that meets certified organic standards to ensure you get a natural product.
• Examine Packaging: Good quality packaging protects the tea from damage and retains freshness and flavor. Look for vacuum-sealed, opaque packages that block light, which can degrade the quality of the tea over time.
• Read Reviews: While taste can be subjective, reviews can provide insight into the overall quality of the tea, its flavor profile, and whether it lives up to its claims.
• Try Before You Buy in Bulk: If possible, purchase sample sizes or small packages of rooibos tea before buying in bulk. This allows you to experiment with different brands and flavors without a significant investment.
• Consider the Price: While it’s true that you often get what you pay for, a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee a superior product. Consider the price per cup rather than just the overall cost to better understand the value for money.

Remember, exploring the world of rooibos tea should be an enjoyable and personal journey. Take your time, trust your taste buds, and you’re sure to find the best rooibos tea that suits your palate and lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

Despite our rigorous testing and vetting of numerous rooibos tea brands, new contenders continually enter the market. We plan to update this list as and when new products prove worthy of mention. 

Remember, our list of the best rooibos teas reflects our preferences. Your ideal rooibos tea may differ, so we encourage you to explore different brands and discover your personal best rooibos tea.

FAQ

Is It Safe to Drink Rooibos Tea Every Day?

Yes, it is safe to drink rooibos tea every day. A typical recommendation is up to six cups per day, which should be tolerable for most people.

What Is the Best Time to Drink Rooibos Tea?

Rooibos tea can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Its lack of caffeine makes it an excellent choice for evenings when you want a warm beverage without the stimulant effect.

Do You Put Milk in Rooibos Tea?

This is a matter of personal preference. Rooibos tea can be enjoyed plain, but it also takes well to a splash of milk or a dairy alternative, which can add creaminess and temper its natural sweetness.

Does Rooibos Tea Stain Teeth?

Rooibos tea is less likely to stain teeth than black or green tea. However, any tea can contribute to staining over time if consumed in large amounts and if dental hygiene is neglected.

What Are the Health Benefits of Rooibos Tea?

Rooibos tea is packed with antioxidants, which can support overall health and wellness. Potential benefits include improved heart health, better digestion, and relief from allergies and insomnia.

How Much Caffeine Is in Rooibos Tea?

Rooibos tea is naturally caffeine-free, making it an excellent choice for those looking to limit their caffeine intake or for a relaxing drink before bed.

What Does Rooibos Tea Taste Like?

Rooibos tea has a unique flavor profile, often described as sweet, nutty, and slightly earthy. Some also detect notes of vanilla or honey.

How to Make Rooibos Tea?

To brew rooibos tea, boil water and pour it over the rooibos (1.5 teaspoons of loose leaves or 1 tea bag per cup). Let it steep for 5-7 minutes, then strain the tea (if using loose leaves) and enjoy. 

Remember, following the manufacturer’s directions on the label is best for optimal taste and benefits.