The word 'terroir' (pronounced “tehr-wahr”) comes from the French term meaning 'of the earth.' It refers to the unique combination of climate, soil, altitude, rainfall, sunlight, and even cultural practices that influence the flavor, aroma, and character of agricultural products — particularly wine and tea. Just as no two vineyards yield identical grapes, no two tea gardens produce identical leaves. Terroir gives tea its soul and signature. 1. Climate and Altitude Tea thrives