Dutch Bros' Standard Tea Brand: Harney & Sons
For some time, Dutch Bros. has used Harney & Sons Fine Teas for its brewed beverages. This brand is known for high-quality teas and is the source for both the black and green tea bases used in Dutch Bros' iced and hot tea drinks. This brand choice ensures a consistent flavor profile for customers. While the brand remains the same, the specific blends have been updated, which has led to customer discussions.
The Evolution of Harney & Sons Tea at Dutch Bros
Dutch Bros' tea offerings have changed over time. Previously, the company used more specialized blends from Harney & Sons, but more recently, the company has shifted to more straightforward options.
A brief history of their tea changes:
- Classic Black Tea: Dutch Bros. was known for using Harney & Sons Paris Tea, a complex black tea with fruity black currant and vanilla notes. However, according to recent customer and employee accounts, the standard black tea has changed to a simpler, unflavored Harney & Sons black tea. Many long-time fans noted the change and even request the original Paris tea by name.
- Classic Green Tea: The green tea blend also saw a similar shift. The original Harney & Sons Organic Green with Citrus & Ginkgo was replaced with a more basic Harney & Sons iced green tea. Customers still have the option to ask for the more complex version, brewed from smaller sachets, though it may not be available at all locations or for large batch brewing.
The Chai Concentrate: Oregon Chai
Dutch Bros. uses a concentrated chai base for their chai lattes, unlike their brewed black and green teas. The specific brand used for this purpose is Oregon Chai, known for its sweet, cinnamony flavor profile. This concentrate is mixed with milk to create the Dutch Bros. Chai Latte, which is the base for many other flavor combinations. Oregon Chai is widely available at grocery stores, allowing fans to make the beverage at home.
The Oregon Chai Profile
The choice of Oregon Chai explains the sweet flavor that many Dutch Bros. customers enjoy. While some prefer a spicier, more traditional blend, Oregon Chai's sweetness and mild spice make it a mass-market favorite. Dutch Bros. capitalizes on this profile by adding a variety of flavored syrups, such as vanilla, caramel, and white chocolate, to create unique drink combinations.
Comparison: Dutch Bros Tea Brands
| Feature | Harney & Sons (Black/Green Tea) | Oregon Chai (Chai Latte) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Loose leaf/sachets, steeped | Liquid concentrate |
| Primary Use | Iced teas, hot teas | Chai lattes and other chai-based drinks |
| Flavor Profile | Depends on the specific blend (e.g., Paris, Plain Green), tea-forward | Sweet, cinnamony, slightly spiced |
| Preparation | Brewed in-store in large batches or individual servings | Mixed directly with milk and other flavorings |
| Brand Availability | Widely available for online purchase and specialty shops | Available in many grocery stores and online |
How to Replicate Dutch Bros Tea at Home
With the right brands and a few simple steps, it is possible to make Dutch Bros-style teas at home. Here is how:
- For Classic Black Tea: Purchase Harney & Sons Paris Tea (though the current standard black is plainer) and steep it according to the package directions. Use a ratio of tea to hot water similar to what Dutch Bros. uses for iced tea—about two large gallon-sized bags for a pitcher. Once steeped, combine with cold water.
- For a Chai Latte: Get Oregon Chai concentrate from a grocery store. The recommended ratio is typically equal parts concentrate and milk. For added flavor, you can use Torani syrups, a brand also frequently used at Dutch Bros.
- For Flavored Teas: Start with a simple Harney & Sons green or black tea base and add Torani fruit syrups for combinations like Electric Berry (blue raspberry and lime) or Strawberry Tea.
Conclusion
Dutch Bros. uses two brands for its tea menu: Harney & Sons for its brewed black and green teas, and Oregon Chai for its popular chai lattes. While the specific blends from Harney & Sons have evolved, the quality and commitment to these suppliers remain consistent. Knowing these details allows both fans and new customers to appreciate the flavor profiles or try to recreate them at home. The difference in brands for brewed tea versus chai concentrate is key to distinguishing the taste and preparation of Dutch Bros' diverse tea offerings.
