It is believed that up until the 17th Century, the only teas consumed were green tea and oolong tea. The production of black tea came with the need to transport tea from China to Europe and extend its expiry date.
Fully oxidising tea leaves makes them darker, and made them more resilient to the transportation available at the time. Despite originating in China, the British popularised black tea when it was brought to Europe in the 18th century. It was first seen as a drink that only the aristocracy could afford. Today, black tea is still the most consumed tea in Europe.
The process of making black tea
As with any tea, black tea is made from the Camellia Sinensis plant and undergoes an in-depth processing method.
The first tea leaves are withered to lose approximately 30% of their humidity. Once the adequate moisture level is reached, the tea leaves are rolled into different shapes to promote further oxidation, which creates a deep black colour and rich flavour. The tea leaves are then dried.
Most black loose tea leaves are roasted in ovens or pan-fried in large woks. When the black tea leaves have dried, they are sorted and graded based on quality. They are then packaged for sale in black tea bags and as black loose-leaf teas.
It takes around 50kg of freshly plucked tea leaves to make 12kg of black tea.
The different types of black tea
Most black teas are cultivated in China, India, Sri Lanka and Kenya. Other countries like Turkey, Korea, Taiwan and Nepal produce black tea as well, but these are less popular.
Famous Chinese black teas include Congou, Yunnan, Keemun and Lapsang. Chinese black teas range in flavour from fruity and floral to smoky and earthy.
The most popular black teas are Indian black teas, coming from the famous tea growing gardens of Assam, Darjeeling and Nilgiri.
Assam black teas are full-bodied and feature a malty flavour profile, while Darjeeling black teas tends to be fruity and floral. Nilgiri black tea is known for being intensely aromatic with a strong, bold taste.
But why is Indian black tea so good? Read more.
Sri Lanka produces Ceylon black tea, a reference to the country's former name. The black tea is grown on multiple plantations at different elevations, resulting in a wide flavour profile. Ceylon teas from high altitude plantations tend to be lighter in colour and feature a more nuanced flavour. Ceylon black teas grown at sea level have a dark brown colour and boast a rich taste.
How to drink black tea?
Steeping a great-tasting cup of loose black tea is easy. Watch How to brew black loose leaf tea here.
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Measure the tea leaves
For black loose tea, use approximately 3g per 200ml water. Alternatively, use one tea bag per cup.
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Water quality
Use pure, clean spring water. Don’t re-brew the water, as doing this results in oxygen loss and an unbalanced flavour.
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Correct water temperature
For black tea, use 100C boiling water.
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Steeping time
It is usually recommended that black tea should be brewed for 3 minutes, however if you prefer a darker brew, leave it for up to 5 minutes. Once the tea is brewed remove the leaves from the water.
Black tea benefits
Is black tea good for you? Because the tea leaves are oxidised, black tea has plenty of health benefits; it boosts energy, can sooth minor headaches, help fight off a cold and more:
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Good for energy and focus
Black tea contains moderate amounts of caffeine and l-theanine, a compound that can help reduce stress. Caffeine and l-theanine work together to improve focus. -
High in antioxidants
Black teas are high in polyphenols, which are antioxidants that can help reduce harmful free radicals and fight against some diseases. -
Heart health
Studies suggest that flavonoids found in black tea may help reduce the risk of heart disease. -
Helps digestion
Black tea can help digest rich meals and soothe stomach troubles.
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Reduces inflammation
Black tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and calm symptoms of illnesses like arthritis. -
Fights off colds
Antiviral compounds found in black tea have antimicrobial properties that can help boost the immune system and protect against the common cold. -
Soothes headaches
Due to its caffeine content, a cup of black tea can help soothe minor headaches.
Please, check with your local doctor if you experience any issues with your health.
Black tea caffeine content
Black tea usually has a high level of caffeine. The caffeine content present in black tea is influenced by several factors, including tea variety, leaf size, water temperature and steep time.
Discover the best black teas
Usually a blend of black teas from different origins, ideal for mornings, and full of flavour.
Known as the ‘Champagne of Teas’ due to its delicate flavour and caramel colour. Earthy and aromatic, with hints of muscatel grape.
Flavoured with bergamot, a small green citrus fruit that grows in Sicily. Earl grey tea is seen as an ‘afternoon tea’ beverage.
Dried over pine fires and sometimes referred to as smoked tea. Lapsang Souchong an intense smoky flavour and scent, and goes best with smoked foods, like salmon or cheese.
Masala Chai translates literally to ‘Spiced Tea’. Often boiled with milk and sweetened with brown sugar, syrup or honey to further alter the flavour profile. It’s great in cold weather to warm your body and soul.
You can also read our more about our black teas:
Kan-Junga: Tea of the Month
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