Chinese Black Tea

Our Chinese Black Tea epitomises tradition. It has a sturdy character. It is a delightful offering from the verdant rolling hills of Anhui Province. This premium selection is far from ordinary. It has a full-bodied aroma that captivates the senses.

Its robust yet exquisite complexity is widely known. It’s the drink of choice for tea lovers. It’s also for those who like timeless flavors. With every sip, you can taste the deep, fancy layers. They make our Black Tea exceptional.

You can savour it pure. Or, blend it for a twist. This Chinese Loose Tea is a testament to a rich, lasting legacy. Discover the real taste of Chinese black tea. Immerse yourself in its rich history.

History of Chinese Black Tea

The history of Chinese black tea is complex. In China, it’s known as “hong cha”. It’s a tapestry woven through time and culture. It dates to the Ming Dynasty, around the mid-17th century. Black tea became popular due to its longer shelf life compared to green teas.

One of the first black teas was Lapsang Souchong. It was from the Wuyi Mountains in Fujian. There, people believe they discovered the process of oxidising teas. This process makes black tea different from green tea. It gives the tea a deeper colour and richer flavor.

By the time of the Qing Dynasty, the production had spread to other regions. This included Qimen County in Anhui province. It was there that the famous Keemun black tea was born in the late 19th century. People loved this tea for its smell. It became a key part of some English breakfast blends.

The British influence was huge. It drove the demand for strong-flavor in the West. Shaped the production and varieties of black tea. The British introduced black tea to India (Assam Tea) and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) to control the market. This shaped global black tea culture.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, production faced competition from these British colonies. But, its reputation for fine teas persisted. Today, China is still a big maker and inventor in black tea. It offers various speciality teas that honour their rich tea heritage. They also adapt to the trends of the global market.

How to Brew Chinese Black Tea: A Step-by-Step Guide

Brewing Chinese black tea is an art, enhancing its flavor and aroma. Follow these steps to ensure an exceptional cup of tea every time:

1. Begin by selecting the right water. For the best taste, use filtered or spring water. This avoids impurities.
2. Heat the water to the perfect temperature. Aim for water temperature around 95-100 degrees Celsius.
3. While the water is heating, add the right amount of tea leaves to your teapot. A general guideline is to use about 1 teaspoon of tea leaves for every 150-200ml of water.
4. Once the water reaches the appropriate temperature, pour it over the tea in the teapot. Use a swirling motion as you pour to ensure the leaves begin to unfurl properly.
5. Allow the tea to steep for the optimal duration. It should steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on desired strength.

After steeping, strain while pouring the tea into cups. This helps achieve a clear liquid without any residue.

You may choose to add a slice of lemon, a few drops of milk, or a sweetener to taste. But, it is traditionally enjoyed plain to appreciate its full flavor.

Tasting Notes: Look for a deep, coppery-red infusion with a pleasant aroma. The flavour should be robust and full-bodied, yet smooth and well-balanced. You may notice subtle notes of malt and honey.

Caffeine Content Level: Between 40 – 60 milligrams of caffeine per 8 oz cup

Tips:

• Always pre-warm your teapot and cups with hot water. Do this before brewing the tea. It keeps the tea hot while it steeps.
• Store your Chinese black tea leaves in a cool, dry place. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Be mindful not to over-steep your tea, as it can extract bitter compounds. Taste your tea at the 3-minute mark to decide if you prefer it stronger.
• Try subsequent infusions. High-quality teas often yield multiple infusions. Each has a unique flavor.

Health Benefits of Chinese Black Tea

It has bold flavour and cultural importance. Also, it has many health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, which support the immune system and prevent cell damage. Black tea has caffeine. It gives a slight energy boost without the jitters of coffee.

Studies have also shown that it can lower cholesterol and help heart health. Its anti-inflammatory properties can also benefit those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. Additionally, the polyphenols found in black tea may help weight loss and digestion.

Despite its caffeine, the benefits of black tea can calm the mind and body. It’s great for unwinding after a long day.

It is not just a beverage; it’s a cultural symbol that has stood the test of time. It has a rich history. It has health benefits and a unique brewing process. Every aspect of it is a celebration of tradition, innovation, and complexity.

So, why not upgrade your tea? Enjoy a cup of real Chinese black tea today.