Tea regions
REGION OF ORIGIN :
Teas are often classified by their estate or region-of-origin. As with fine wine, different regions produce teas with specific flavor profiles and characteristics.
INDIA
1) Today, India is the largest Tea exporter in the world.
2) Teas from Darjeeling are considered some of the best in the world. Grown in the foothills of the Himalayas. Teas favor quality by fine plucking. First plucking (a.k.a. “Flush”), very light aromatic teas. Second plucking (“Flush”), offers more bite, coppery color and taste of ripe fruit. Tea gardens in this area solicit the same respect as the top vineyards of France.
3) Assam is the largest tea growing region in the world.
|
Region |
Tea |
Characteristic |
|
Assam |
Assam (Black) |
Rich, full bodied, malty, and smooth |
|
Darjeeling |
Darjeeling (Black) |
Light and delicate in flavor and aroma with undertones of muscatel the “Champagne of Teas” |
|
Nilgiri |
Nilgiri (Black) |
Popular for blending- robust and smooth |
SRI LANKA
1) Teas grown there are named after the former name of the island, Ceylon.
|
Region |
Tea |
Characteristic |
|
Ceylon |
Ceylon (Black) |
Wide range of flavors, aroma, and color. Some full bodied, rich and dark; others brisk, fragrant, and delicate. |
CHINA
1) For centuries the only exporter of tea in the world.
2) China exports most of its black teas. Green tea is the preferred variety for local consumption.
3) China’s finest teas come from the Yunnan Province.
|
Region |
Tea |
Characteristics |
|
Fujian |
Lapsang Shouchong (Black) |
Distinctly smoky aroma and flavor. |
|
Anhuni |
Keemun (Black) |
Rich brown liquor with a slightly scented nutty flavor. |
|
Yunan |
Yunan Black Tea (Black) |
Rich malty flavor (similar to Assam). Best with milk. |
1) Tea growing was introduced by the British Colonials in the 20th century.
2) Black teas are presented in small broken leaves but produce tea of high quality of bright color, especially good for blending.
|
Region |
Tea |
Characteristic |
|
Kenya Highlands |
Non-specific |
Bright, rich, colorful infusion with a rich, coppery tint. Pleasant, brisk, and strong flavors. |
