Kenya Milima Loose Leaf Tea

Kenya Milima Loose Leaf Tea is a unique, indeed extraordinary, type of Black Tea originating from the country of the same name. Its leaves grow at altitudes of 6,000 feet or above, the name “Milima” broadly meaning “high place” in Swahili.

Processing, meanwhile, takes place in Kericho, an area located in the highlands west of the Kenyan Rift Valley. When brewed, it produces a rich, bright, malty flavour.

Few African Teas are more elegant, indulgent and recognisable than Kenya Milima Loose Leaf Tea. It comes from the Indian Camellia sinensis var assamica variety, like most Kenya Teas, and indeed boasts flavours reminiscent of its Assamese counterparts.

However, it also has one particularly unique quality: It undergoes processing at the only factory in East Africa which produces orthodox-style leaf Tea.

If taste or processing specifics aren’t enough, however, then it’s worth noting that it might come with Black Tea Benefits. This is according to scientific research, which suggests that beverages like this one can improve life in small yet significant ways.

From improved cardiovascular health to weight loss potential; immune system support to a reduced risk of diabetes, the possibilities are nearly endless.

The Story of Kenya Milima Loose Leaf Tea

Despite its popularity, Kenya Tea as a whole is a relatively ‘new’ creation dating back to only 1903. It was a Briton named G.W.L. Caine who first planted Tea in Kenya at the beginning of the 20th century – albeit for ornamental purposes. Kenya Milima Tea would arrive much later.

It wasn’t until 1918, in fact, that a Scotsman, Arnold Butler, realised its true potential. Years earlier, Butler had purchased a farm, Kiambethu, from the British government. Located 20 miles from Nairobi at an elevation of 7,200 ft, there were several challenges yet to come.

Initially, Butler had intended to grow Coffee. However, his crop promptly failed – as did all other plants. But, in time, Tea proved to be a tremendous success, with Arnold eventually cultivating 20 acres of Indian Camellia sinensis var assamica.

To this day, Kiambethu Farm remains in the hands of the McDonnell family. Kenya’s overall Tea industry, meanwhile, is thriving.

Useful Information

Type of Tea: Orthodox Black Tea.

Origin: Kericho, Kenya, Africa.

Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water. Infuse for 3 to 5 minutes.

How to Serve: Some add milk or sugar. Others add honey or lemon. Nevertheless, we recommend serving it black. You may link to read our Best Milk Alternative for Tea article.

Tasting Notes: Impacts a floral aroma with an alluringly malty flavour.

Colour in Cup: Coppery-orange liquor, light in tone.

Kenya Milima Loose Leaf Tea Benefits

The antioxidants in Kenya Milima Loose Leaf Tea can combat free radicals in the body. But why, exactly, is this important?

Free radicals are unpaired (and unsafe!) electrons that, when left unchecked, can cause untold damage. Yet this beverage can help. By neutralising free radicals, it reduces the risk of developing a multitude of severe, chronic conditions.