Zomba Pearls
Artisanal White Tea from Malawi's Shire Highlands
Delicately crafted in the misty Shire Highlands of Malawi, Zomba Pearls are a rare expression of white tea—each pearl hand-rolled from a single, unbroken leaf. After a brief wither, the leaves are gently twisted into tight spheres by skilled tea artisans and then slowly sun-dried under the open sky. This natural drying process relies entirely on clear, bright weather, making each harvest uniquely dependent on nature’s rhythm—and exceptionally limited.
With only 20 kilograms produced each year, Zomba Pearls are a true small-batch treasure. Their flavor is soft yet deeply layered: cashew-like creaminess, a floral lift of honeysuckle, and the gentle sweetness of ripe apricot, all carried by a fuller body than most white teas.
Each pearl unfurls slowly over multiple infusions, revealing more nuance with every steep—inviting you to slow down and savor the unfolding story in your cup.
 
A Note from the Tea Makers:
“This tea is hand-rolled from green leaf plucked from a special Zomba cultivar. After a short wither, our tea ladies roll the leaves on rough surfaces—each pearl formed by hand. We dry them immediately, preserving their freshness and allowing only a tiny hint of natural oxidation.
About 15 years ago, one of our tea makers shaped the first pearl. We loved the look, the flavor—it was different, it was ours. Some buyers didn’t understand it at first; it didn’t fit the mold. But we believed in its beauty and kept it just as it was. Today, Zomba Pearls have become one of our most beloved teas. We still craft them in small batches, with the same care and passion.”