The world of tea is incredibly diverse and fascinating. Thousands of distinct tea kinds are generated from a single plant, “Camellia Sinensis,” which is remarkable. And, even though there are hundreds of different types of tea manufactured across the world, black tea is the most popular. Black tea accounts for almost 78 percent of all tea varieties produced worldwide. Like green and white tea, Black tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Black tea is heavily oxidized as compared to green and white teas, which are slightly oxidized and create a lighter tea both in color and taste. As a result, black tea will always have a stronger flavor compared to green or white tea. Black tea is manufactured from the same tea leaves as green tea, but it is oxidized for longer. After the leaves have been plucked, they are torn into smaller pieces and dried. The leaves are oxidized after drying so that they may be utilized for a more extended period. Green tea, for example, loses its taste after a year, but black tea keeps it for several years. Black tea has a dark, malty flavor like very mild beer but without alcohol or acidity. Because it’s a highly oxidized tea, the brew will be dark red/orange in color.
What Does Black Tea Taste Like?
Black teas may have a wide range of tastes depending on variety, quality, and preparation techniques. Regardless of the kind you choose for your afternoon cup, they all have characteristics that you’ll learn to anticipate. Black teas have a strong tannic quality and herbal overtones, which are especially noticeable in the fragrance. They’re often peppery and spicy on their own; however, there can be a natural sweetness that isn’t apparent until a splash of vegan milk is added. The climate and elevation at which the Camellia sinensis plant was grown, how it was fertilized, the quantity of oxidation permitted during processing, and how the leaves were cut and packaged are examples of these factors. An excellent black tea will have a strong scent, be less bitter than green tea, and be tolerant of sugar and cream. Black teas have a bitterness to them that is similar to coffee’s bitterness. Some individuals adore this characteristic, preferring to drink black tea just as they make black coffee. While black tea contains some bitterness, it should not be overpowering. If that’s the case, your tea may have been brewed for too long. For the finest flavor, check the brew times on different types of black tea.
Some of the Best Black Teas from Around the World
English Breakfast Tea
English morning tea should be steeped for a long time. It’s full-bodied, powerful, and rich, and it pairs nicely with milk and sweetness, as is customary in England. At 206 degrees Fahrenheit, steep English morning tea for five minutes.
Assam Black Tea
The majority of Assam black tea is grown at or around sea level. This black tea type has a distinct, chocolatey taste due to the tropical environment and abundant rainfall. It has a substantial body, briskness, and malty flavors. Assamese teas can be consumed black or with honey and a dash of nut milk.
Yunnan Black Tea
With lots of chocolate, honey, and pepper, this black tea is rich and smooth. Unlike other black teas, Yunnan black tea yields a brassy orange brew rather than the brown or black hue you’re used to.
Darjeeling Black Tea
The flavor of this black tea varies depending on when it’s picked. Each of the four-yearly harvests, known in the tea industry as a “flush,” has its unique taste. The flavor of the spring flush is grassy and green. It’s Darjeeling tea’s most sought-after harvest. The second flush, which occurs in June, has a fruity, spicy flavor, but the subsequent flushes have a stronger flavor and more harsh tannins. Darjeeling black tea is best served unsweetened, with no milk or sugar added.
Ceylon Black Tea
Ceylon black tea leaves from lower elevations have a strong, spicy taste and provide a burgundy-brown brew, while higher-elevation types have more delicate, nuanced flavor profiles and yield a deep black tea. Ceylon black tea is often robust enough to stand up to the addition of nut milk, lemon, or honey. It’s also a fantastic iced tea option.
Health and Nutritional Benefits of Black Tea
It has a long list of health advantages and is frequently used by athletes because of its ergogenic qualities. Caffeine is found in black tea, which can aid with performance and alertness. Improvements in memory and mental health and a lower risk of heart attack or stroke are all possible side effects of decreasing lipids in the circulation.
Black tea is also high in antioxidants, which protect cells from harm caused by pesticides and other toxic agents in our environment. It gives you steady energy throughout the day, and it has been shown to have a lower risk of colon cancer. The anti-inflammatory effects of black tea may also help lower the chance of developing asthma, arthritis, and other inflammatory diseases. Black tea, rather than other harmful beverages like soda, may be precisely what you need to start living a better lifestyle.
Conclusion
There’s a black tea for everyone out there. When trying a black tea for the first time, keep in mind that it’s similar to coffee. The flavor may be strange at first, and some individuals prefer to drink black tea as it is. Some people like it with milk or sugar, and you won’t know which one you prefer until you taste it. Drinking black tea is an ancient tradition that can be as creative as you want it to be; try vegan bubble tea and Thai tea for two especially delectable variations. Black tea may be had at any time of day, with or without sugar, and it can improve your mood. You can always try it iced, shaken, stirred, or warm.
Get going with your day with the kick of energy from the black tea!
