All About Black Tea
Black Tea has a bold, robust flavor and high caffeine content.
What is Black Tea?
Black tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The leaves are picked, withered, rolled, oxidized, and dried, giving black tea its dark color and robust flavor. A popular morning beverage, black tea contains caffeine and is known for its stimulating effects as well as its potential health benefits.
Origins
Legend has it that a servant in China during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) accidentally fermented the tea leaves by leaving them in the sun, resulting in the darker and stronger flavor we know today as black tea. However, the true origins of black tea are unknown to us. Historians argue that black tea was first produced in the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian Province, China, or in the Yunnan Province in southwest China.
Despite the confusion of its true origin, we know that black tea first became popular in China and was eventually exported for other countries to enjoy. The Dutch East India Company first introduced black tea to Europe in the early 17th century, and it quickly became popular in England. Today, black tea is produced in many countries and remains one of the most popular types of tea in the world.
Types of Black Tea
Assam
Hailing from the Assam region of India, Assam is known for its full-bodied and malty flavor and often used in chai tea.
Darjeeling
Delicate and floral in flavor, Darjeeling comes from the Darjeeling district in West Bengal, India. Because of its quality flavor, Darjeeling is often called the “champagne of teas.”
Ceylon
Often used in iced tea blends, this tea hails from Sri Lanka and offers a bold and fruity flavor profile.
Keemun
Coming from China, this tea is known for its smoky and earthy flavor. It’s often used in blends for making English Breakfast tea.
Lapsang Souchong
This tea also comes from China and is known for its smoky flavor. Russian caravan teas are often made with Mapsang Souchong blends.
Yunnan
Direct from the Yunnan province of China, this tea has a rich and earthy flavor.
Is black tea actually black?
Black tea is not actually black. The name “black” tea refers to the fully oxidized tea leaves that are dark in color. When brewed, black tea is actually closer to a reddish-brown or amber color depending on the type of tea.
Is black tea caffeine-free?
Black tea is not naturally caffeine free but can be decaffeinated through a process that removes most of the caffeine from the leaves. However, decaf black tea may still contain trace amounts of caffeine.
Where is black tea grown?
Black tea is a widespread tea grown in many regions such as India, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Indonesia.
Why is black tea stronger than other teas?
Black tea is stronger in flavor than other teas because of the way it is processed. Unlike other teas, black tea goes through a complete oxidation process, meaning the leaves are exposed to oxygen until they turn dark in color. Thus the extensive process breaks down natural compounds, leaving a stronger, more robust flavor and larger caffeine content.
Can black tea be sweetened?
Yes, black tea can be sweetened with sugar, honey, or other sweeteners. Some people also like to add milk or cream to their tea.