David Barron, founder of Fleur De Lis Tea Company, decided to retire and invest in a pine plantation where he and his family could enjoy the outdoor life. It wasn't until 2017 when David's longtime friend Buddy Lee offered him about 1,000 tea plants, that the dream of a Louisiana tea farm began. The first year saw 6 inches of snow and an unusually hot summer and, to David's astonishment, the plants survived showing their viability for the area.
Now, five years later, the dream has grown along with the tea plants. The original field has reached maturity, two new fields have been planted with more plans for expansion, a greenhouse has been established and nursery expanded, and a beautiful tea house has been erected which serves as both a processing facility and venue space.
David's past experience running a machine shop has given him a keen eye and a drive for perfection, so when building the tea house he couldn't think of anyone better for the job than longtime friend, Jesse Rush, master carpenter. Together they hand selected or handmade every aspect of the tea house. All of the woodwork was done on site at David's woodshop; from the epoxy river bar, the cabinetry, to the sinker cypress trim.
This year (2022) is the first year Fleur De Lis Tea Company will be commercially producing tea. With expert help from Beverly Wainwright of the Scottish Tea Factory, the first signature Louisiana tea was crafted: "Big Easy" a black tea for the soul. Now, after years in the making, it's time to share the dream with you! Be a part of the story by purchasing our tea, booking a tour, or reserving the tea house for your own event!
