If you’re a tea fanatic, you’re mostly likely aware all teas are not the same. If you’re a loyal Tejava® fan you certainly know the boldly smooth taste of Tejava is like none other. Most black tea is grown in Asia or Africa. With a wide array of geography and climate, black tea leaves boast a variety of flavor profiles. It’s not really a matter of the best black tea – many varieties may claim they are “the best” – what’s important is identifying the best type of black tea for you.
Darjeeling tea, known as the “champagne of tea” comes from the Darjeeling region of India. Known for its delicate, fruity, floral and light flavors, Darjeeling black tea flavor can vary based on when it is harvested.
Keemum black tea comes from the Anhui region of eastern China. This type of black tea is sought after by tea connoisseurs for its unique aroma and flavors. Tea lovers appreciate its smooth fruity notes combined with piney and tobacco-like flavors.
Assam black tea is harvested in northeastern India near or at sea level. Grown in a very tropical climate with high rainfall, this black tea is known for its full body, bold and malty flavor along with a strong, bright color. Assam black tea is often used in breakfast tea blends such as English Breakfast or Irish Breakfast tea.
Yunnan black tea is grown in the southwestern province of Yunnan, China. This type of black tea has a larger number of tea leaf buds – called golden tips. These tea leaves brew to a beautiful orange color. Yunnan black tea is a favorite with coffee lovers as it boasts a rich, chocolaty flavor – sometimes with notes of spice.
Nilgiri black tea – also often called Blue Mountain tea – is grown in the Western Ghats Mountains of Southern India. Produced by small growers, the tea leaves are mostly sold to larger tea companies for production. Nilgiri black tea is unique in that it is mostly grown at an elevation of 8,000 feet above sea level. This black tea is medium bodied and slightly sweet with hints of fruit. It is a great choice for iced tea because it does not get cloudy or bitter when brewed.
Ceylon black tea comes from the island of Sri Lanka. The extreme variations of Sri Lanka’s geography create terroirs that produce a diverse group of flavor profiles for this black tea. Often used in Earl Grey tea blends, Ceylon black teas are rich, strong teas with notes of spice and chocolate.
Earl Grey is the most popular choice for serving at high tea. It is usually flavored with a mixture of essential oils and/or natural citrus flavors. The distinctive flavors of Earl Grey tea make it a popular ingredient in flavored chocolates, baked goods, and cocktails.
Black tea is one of the world’s most popular beverages. With so many types of black tea available, you can choose the tea that best suits your tastes and lifestyle. Of course, we hope you always choose Tejava Original Black, the unsweetened ready-to-drink black tea.