Start with the buying goal

Before tasting tea, define the target channel: retail pouch, hotel service, gift set, tea room, or private label line. The same tea may work well in one channel and poorly in another.

Share your target market, expected price band, packaging direction, and estimated order size before requesting samples. This helps the supplier choose samples that are commercially realistic.

Evaluate more than flavor

Taste and aroma matter, but importers should also check leaf appearance, brew consistency, moisture, packing condition, labeling possibilities, and whether the sample can be repeated in a later batch.

A sample is a sourcing tool. Use it to confirm direction, then ask about harvest timing, grade stability, MOQ, lead time, and freight impact.

Compare samples in a simple table

Record sample code, dry leaf, aroma, liquor color, taste, aftertaste, packaging notes, estimated audience, and questions for the supplier. A simple table makes it easier to compare samples with your team.

If a sample is approved, confirm whether bulk production will match the same grade and origin direction before invoice.