Black tea is one of the most consumed varieties of tea in America (though green tea is catching up). Black tea is a fully oxidized tea. Putting that in perspective, green team comes from the same plant, but it is not oxidized.
While there are many benefits to drinking tea across the board, the most I come in contact with in regards to black tea is the feeling of alertness from the caffeine content. Despite the fact that matcha has generally more caffeine per serving, this misconception is a long reeducation process for the general public that will take time.
Many black tea drinkers also consume coffee in their regular diet as well. This darker and fuller tasting tea is strong, providing the mental image of delivering a powerful and pungent taste in the consumer's mouth.
Earl Grey, one of the most popular blends of black tea, contains the addition of bergamot oil. Bergamot is originally from the Calabria region of Italy, it is a cross of a lemon and and lime. This unique citrus fruit complements the dark notes of the black tea and brings a roundness to the robust body. Different varieties of Earl Grey are being developed with different types of tea such as green, white, and rooibos across the market. Across the country I'm even beginning to see products such as ice cream, draft nitro cold brews, and scented candles with the unique flavor profiles of Earl Grey.
Assam, Darjeeling, and Ceylon regions of the world are some of the most well-known regions of black tea producers. Each, just like wine, contain certain tasting notes of the region. Purists, or those that drink their time unadulterated with milk or sugar, tend to know the regions they like and are huge advocates of those single origin teas.
Black tea is usually the entry type of tea to those new to the industry for their palates to acclimate to. It is approachable and straightforward. If you have ever wondered what the world of tea can offer I suggest that you start with the world of black tea and move forward depending on what you discover with your own palate. If it winds up tasting a little too dark or astringent you can migrate towards the lighter side of the spectrum with green or white tea. If the caffeine content keeps you up a little too much there are a plethora of herbal options or even decaf versions that can strike you fancy as well.
I wonderfully steeped cold brew style black tea in the heat of the summer or a piping hot mug of a cozy Darjeeling in the blustery fall can do wonders. Be inventive and open to trying new profiles and blends. There are so many wonderful black tea out there from many companies that will make your head full of envy.
We have a dedicated page just to black tea on our website. This is a great way to read more information we've compiled. Cheers!
