As more consumers seek healthier, zero-alcohol options without compromising on indulgence, the firm saw an opportunity to blend wellness with enjoyment. Gazebo was created to meet this demand — and to further the company’s broader mission of promoting Taiwanese tea culture through modern formats such as bubble tea and canned beverages.
Launched earlier this year after three years of development, Gazebo sparkling green tea is part of Shi Chia Tea’s plan to diversify its Yuan Rong brand portfolio with innovative tea-based beverages.
“Sparkling green tea offers a good alternative to alcoholic drinks – you can enjoy the feel of drinking alcohol without the negative effects. Many customers have said that it tastes like beer,” said Shi Chia Tea co-founder Hsu Chia-Jung.
Like beer, but healthier
The beer-like experience is due to the “champagne-quality bubbles”, that makes it suitable for drinking on its own or for pairing with meals – whenever you are eating by yourself or at a gathering, said Hsu.
Its light umami flavour also makes it suitable as a cocktail mixer.
“Gazebo has a smooth umami flavour due to a light 5–10%fermentation – a mild oxidation process that deepens flavour while preserving the aroma and antioxidants in the tea leaves,” Hsu explained.
“Combined with the fizzy carbonation, this creates a refreshing, beer-like mouthfeel without alcohol or sugar,” said Hsu.
The benefits of green tea are well understood among the masses. Yuan Rong’s strategy is to differentiate Gazebo from other green teas by highlighting how it can fit into daily life.
How it works as a healthier beverage
Green tea naturally contains catechins and polyphenols, antioxidants known to support digestion and ease discomfort after heavy or greasy foods.
The naturally occurring caffeine also provides an energy lift during work, while its sugar-free, additive-free formulation appeals to fitness-conscious consumers and those looking to moderate alcohol intake.
It also reduces heatiness – a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) concept referring to symptoms like sore throat or acne caused by excessive fried food or lack of rest.
These benefits align with Yuan Rong’s broader portfolio, which focuses on promoting physical and mental relaxation.
Other teas in the Gazebo range include Biliu Oolong, a floral tea brewed from leaves picked at around 2,000 metres, and Oriental Beauty, a heavily fermented variety with fruity and honey notes.
The name “Gazebo” – meaning a lookout tower – reflects the brand’s intent to evoke the tranquil feeling of overlooking Taiwan’s mountain scenery while sipping tea.
Positioned within the premium segment, a six-can pack of Gazebo sparkling green tea retails for TWD399 (approximately USD13). The company is currently focusing on the domestic Taiwan market but plans to explore regional expansion once local demand stabilises.
