The Whole Leaf (Yi Pin Xiang) was formed in 2004 to provide the San Diego area with the best tea and teaware from China and Taiwan. As some of our founders spend more time in China than the US, we saw a natural fit, and formed the company to take advantage of this connection to bring our passion for tea to our local community. Since then, The Whole Leaf has grown, and now has customers across the US, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Our love of tea has come about as a result of our own adventures, as well as the wonderful Chinese and Taiwanese friends that share our passion and support us in our efforts.

The three main partners in The Whole Leaf have been friends since middle school in Coronado, CA. After many adventures in life after high school, they came back together over unlikely cups of tea, sharing their life experience and passion for this ancient and noble pastime.

Carl E. Anderson III is our executive sales manager and accountant, and his energy and business savvy keep our operation running smoothly and efficiently. For Carl, a few hours of number crunching or building a new set of cabinets is better than any nap. His favorite "power" teas are dark pu'er (the stronger the better), and Mao Xie Wang oolong.

Jonah A. Arter is our wholesale manager and holistic lifestyle integrator. Jonah's love for organic food, meditation, and sustainable business practices keep our moral compass steady, and he provides a clear and constant connection to the world of holistic life practices. His favorite "chill" teas are delicate aged pu'ers (wine-red is best!), and dark oolongs from Nantou region in Taiwan.

Lambert J. Ninteman III is our sourcing manager and cultural expert. His love for China and Chinese culture help us to find only the very best of what China and Taiwan have to offer, and his every return to San Diego is anticipated like children waiting for Christmas goodies! His favorite "traditional" teas are aged green pu'er and Lu Gu Dong Ding oolong.

Click here to contact us or email us now at info@thewholeleaf.com.