Luzianne Tea is primarily grown in the rich, fertile soil of the southeastern United States, particularly in Louisiana, where the climate and conditions are ideal for cultivating high-quality tea leaves.
Luzianne tea, a staple in Southern households since 1902, sources its premium tea leaves from multiple continents while maintaining deep roots in Louisiana. This iconic brand revolutionized iced tea with its special blend designed to stay flavorful when poured over ice.
The Global Origins of Luzianne Tea Leaves
Luzianne tea leaves come from five continents, with significant sourcing from:
- South America (Brazil, Argentina)
- Africa (Kenya, Rwanda)
- Asia (India, Sri Lanka, China)
The company’s third-generation tea masters carefully select and blend these international leaves to maintain William B. Reily’s original 1932 formula. This global sourcing ensures consistent quality year-round, as different regions harvest at different times.
Rainforest Alliance Certified Sourcing
Many Luzianne teas carry the Rainforest Alliance Certified seal, meaning they’re grown on farms following strict environmental and social standards. This certification helps ensure sustainable farming practices in tea-growing regions worldwide.
The Louisiana Connection
While the tea leaves are globally sourced, Luzianne’s heart remains in New Orleans:
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1902 | William B. Reily moves business to New Orleans |
| 1932 | Creates first iced tea blend specifically for pouring over ice |
| Present | Still blended to original specifications in Louisiana |
The Reily Foods Company, which produces Luzianne, maintains its headquarters in New Orleans where all final blending and packaging occurs. This gives Luzianne its distinctive Southern character despite its international ingredients.
Specialty Blends and Their Origins
Luzianne offers several unique tea varieties with distinct sourcing:
Hibiscus Iced Tea
This vibrant herbal tea uses hibiscus petals grown in tropical regions worldwide. As noted on their official site, the deep magenta flowers create a tart, refreshing flavor perfect for iced tea.
Classic Iced Tea Blend
The original 1932 formula combines:
- 50% Indian Assam tea (bold flavor)
- 30% Kenyan tea (bright notes)
- 20% Chinese Keemun (smooth finish)
Why Southerners Swear By Luzianne
Luzianne earned its place as a Southern favorite through:
- Perfect clarity when poured over ice
- Consistent flavor profile for generations
- Special blend that doesn’t cloud when chilled
As one customer review states: “Nothing compares if you want Southern sweet tea.” This reputation stems from the careful global sourcing paired with Louisiana blending expertise.
Modern Production and Sustainability
Today, Luzianne continues innovating while honoring tradition:
- Introduces new flavors like peach and raspberry
- Maintains Rainforest Alliance partnerships
- Uses same quality standards since 1902
For those exploring tea options, you might compare Luzianne’s caffeine content to other popular brands like Red Diamond Tea or Trader Joe’s Pomegranate White Tea.
From tropical hibiscus fields to Louisiana blending rooms, Luzianne tea brings global flavors to Southern glasses while maintaining its New Orleans soul. The brand’s success proves that great tea combines worldwide sourcing with local tradition.
