Black tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, along with green tea, oolong tea, and white tea. However, specific characteristics of each depends on several things, specifically the fermentation process. To make black tea, leaves are fermented, causing them to turn red, followed by black, and then they dry out. To make green tea, the leaves are not fermented, but treated with heat, meaning they remain green.
History is somewhat confusing as to when and where this fermentation process was started but at some point, the process was developed as a way of preserving tea for a long time. This process is one key factor in producing the unique flavor and aroma that comes from black tea. However, because different people have different occasions for serving tea of this type, it is common to see it blended with other types of black tea or other teas.
What to look for when buying black tea
When shopping for black tea, you will find that tea companies give it a grade. A popular type of black tea is called Pekoe, which is made with the second leaf on the plant going through medium plucking, which are small amounts of white down or “hair” found on the leaves. In fact, the name, Pekoe translates in Chinese to “white hair.” Another popular variety of organic black tea is known as Broken Orange Pekoe. In this case, smaller leaves that have broken pieces to include the tips are used whereas Broken Pekoe is made with broken pieces of a coarser leaf but in this case, the tips are not used.
When buying high quality black tea, which would provide better black tea benefits and flavor, fannings are removed. These small, grainy particles are found on the leaves. Then, the Flowery Orange Pekoe is a remarkable choice of black tea, which is made with a broken leave and a large portion of the tip or the entire leaf. Because of this, the quality and flavor is smooth. Now, if you were to choose Flowery Pekoe, the entire leaf would be rolled lengthwise opposed to the Orange Pekoe, which is made from long leaves and only a small number of tips.
Another term you will likely hear when you purchase locally or buy black tea online is “dust”. This term references the miniscule leaf particles, which is what you usually get when buying tea bags in the store. Dust reaches full flavor and strength quickly so to be used in tea bags, the tea is placed inside chests made of plywood and lined with aluminum paper.
The difference of high quality black tea
This is why buying organic black tea or fresh tea makes a huge difference in flavor, aroma, and color. You will also find in addition to straightforward tea, black tea can be scented or flavored. This process involves using standard grade tea and then using essential oils, flowers, or even specially flavored crystals, changing the tea. When sampling black tea, differences in flavor would be easily noticed based on the quality and type of flavoring used. Therefore, if you want the best black tea possible, those flavored with natural methods are best.
Back to the plucking, the consistency of black tea would vary based on when the plucking were pulled and processed. However, even the country and region where the Camellia sinensis plant grow would have a huge impact on black tea flavor and fragrance. As an example, tea grown in the Assam Province of India is stronger and fuller bodied whereas tea grown in Darjeeling, a region in northeast India produces lighter and more fragrant black tea, offering a nutty or flowering flavor. Then, tea from Taiwan or China known as Keemum is fruity and sweet.
Another wonderful choice of black teat that features a smoky flavor and fragrance comes from China and Taiwan. Known as Lapsang Souchong, the leaves are placed over burning pine, creating the unique smoky qualities. Many people that prefer to avoid heavy levels of caffeine will often choose this type of organic black tea because has a low amount. However, if you prefer a fuller bodied tea with a subtle pepper taste, Yunnan, which comes from the Yunnan Province of China, is ideal.
All the differences seen in both green tea and black tea is what makes these two options the most popular. Just as with green, black tea benefits from a medicinal standpoint are excellent. The primary difference is the level of caffeine, with black tea having more. Remember, plucking associated with making black tea plays an important role but it is not the only determining factor but even so, the earlier the plucking the greater variety.
Many people say that drinking black tea is an acquired taste, a type of tea that takes time to grow on you but because of the unique flavors, aromas, and consistencies, you can switch around while enjoying each variety. Research done on this type of tea proves that for health, black tea benefits outshine the rest.