Duchess Fine Teas debuts at WOFEX Drinks 2025, brings global flavors to Manila

Tea enthusiasts in the country embark on a refined journey as Duchess Fine Teas makes its grand debut at WOFEX DRINKS 2025, currently happening from March 27 to 29 at the World Trade Center Manila. The ribbon cutting ceremony shows Joel Pascual, president of WOFEX Drinks and PEPTarsus, organizer of WOFEX; Undersecretary Shahlimar Tamano of the Department of Tourism; Pam Pascual, president of the World Trade Center; and Dee Ledonio, founder and CEO of Duchess Fine Teas. PHOTO FROM DUCHESS FINE TEAS

The brand introduces a meticulously curated selection of premium teas from around the world, offering Filipinos a taste of the finest blends from India, Indonesia, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, China, Korea, and Sri Lanka.

With a vision to redefine tea culture in the Philippines, Duchess Fine Teas brings an exquisite yet accessible tea experience, catering to both connoisseurs and those new to the world of fine teas.

The inspiration behind Duchess Fine Teas

For Dee Ledonio, entrepreneurship has always been second nature. At just 21 years old, she ventured into her first business, embracing both the challenges and rewards of building something from the ground up. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to pursue a Master's in Entrepreneurship at the Asian Institute of Management, where she honed her skills in strategy, innovation, and leadership.

But her journey into the world of tea was unexpected — it was a moment of serendipity.

During her travels across Europe, particularly in the UK, Dee fell in love with the culture of tea. She wandered through charming tea cafés, discovered exquisite blends, and experienced firsthand the ritualistic elegance of tea drinking. From the rich, malty flavors of Assam to the delicate floral notes of Darjeeling, she realized that tea was more than just a beverage — it was an experience, a lifestyle, and a bridge to different cultures.

Her true inspiration came during Christmas 2024, when she received a beautifully curated gift set of fine loose-leaf teas from India. The moment she opened it, she was captivated. The aroma, the packaging, and the artistry of the blends created an unforgettable experience. It also sparked a lingering question in her mind:

"Why is it that in the Philippines, our tea selection is so limited? That question ignited an idea in me. What if Filipinos had access to the same world-class teas she had discovered abroad? What if loose-leaf teas, elegantly packaged in tin canisters and pyramid tea bags, could be introduced to a market that had long been dominated by instant tea and sugary blends?" Dee said.

With the help of a trusted friend and co-founder, Dee set out to bring her vision to life. She began sourcing premium, branded teas from India, home to some of the world's most celebrated tea varieties. As her journey continued, one country led to another, and soon, Duchess Fine Teas was bringing in carefully curated selections from Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan, and China. Each tea carried the heritage of its origins, telling a unique story in every blend.

A global selection, curated for the Philippine market

Duchess Fine Teas partners with some of the most renowned tea brands, ensuring authentic, high-quality selections that cater to every palate. Among its distinguished partners are Sancha, Tea Shelf, Dancing Leaf, Goodwyn, Hillcarts, and Tea Trunk from India; Savis from Indonesia; Ikkyu from Japan; Monteaco from Thailand; JSY from Taiwan; and Nokchawon from Korea. The brand also carries its own label for premium teas sourced from China.

To make its offerings more accessible, Duchess Fine Teas will be available through various sales channels, including online platforms, retail stores, pop-up events, and partnerships with hotels and restaurants. Tea lovers can explore an array of loose-leaf and bagged teas tailored for both personal indulgence and business needs.

More than just a collection of premium teas, Duchess Fine Teas is elevating the experience with exclusive tea accessories, luxury packaging, and educational tea workshops. These initiatives aim to deepen appreciation for tea culture, allowing Filipinos to savor every cup with sophistication and knowledge.

"As we continue to grow, our mission remains the same: to bring the finest teas from around the world to tea lovers, connoisseurs, and those beginning their journey into the world of tea. With every sip, we invite you to indulge in 'The Art of Tea – Redefined,'" Dee said.