World Tea Expo 2017

Tony Tellin
Co-Founder
A. Tellin Company


I moved to Oregon in 1998 and started working at Tazo Tea. I had many roles, all leading up to being the senior buyer. Steven Smith, the founder, was my mentor and we cupped our way around the world, sourcing teas, botanicals and spices. Alongside a talented team and with support from Starbucks Coffee we introduced premium teas to a larger market and established social programs in origin. In 2008 we got back together and I helped his family and friends start Smith Teamaker. We converted a old blacksmith building into an artisan tea factory- blending and packing fine teas and botanicals on site. I helped run the operations as we built out product lines, introduced hand bottled ice teas and developed exclusive products for countless food service operators and specialty retailers. Later on as head teamaker I helped introduce carbonated and nitrogenized teas on tap, barrel scented teas, and expanded varietal and blend offerings. Together we launched the makers series, a formal excuse to create one of a kind tea products alongside inspirational artists, makers, chefs and entrepreneurs. In 2018 I stepped away to slow down, and to walk a different path. I launched A. Tellin Company to make tea my way while also helping blenders, packers and producers where I can -as I believe rising waters lifts all boats.

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