Plantation Tea

Black tea, by definition, is tea that has been fermented and oxidized during processing. Typically, black teas have a richer and fuller flavor than unprocessed green teas. Black tea accounts for approximately 90 percent of tea consumption throughout the world.

Although black tea has dark tea leaves, it gets its name from the deep, brownish-red hued fluid that it produces. Green and white teas are much lighter in color. The same can be said for flavor. Black tea tends to have a much stronger flavor than its counterparts.

One important aspect of black tea is the high levels of caffeine present. One bag can contain between 25 – 110 mg of caffeine. This is the equivalent of a cup of coffee and more than a 12 oz. can of soda. Caffeine can also be considered a health benefit because it allows the brain to focus and concentrate. Energy from the caffeine is another benefit of black tea.

Black tea possesses a wide range of health benefits. It is known to decrease stomach acids which prevent gastritis. Studies have shown that black tea also helps to relieve diarrhea, control cholesterol levels and even prevent tooth decay because of the presence of fluoride.

This bold tea is favored my many regions in the world. Black tea is either single estate or blended. Some major varieties are as follows:

• Assam – Tea from Assam, Northeastern India. It has a rich, malty flavor and is typically drank in the morning.
  
  
• Darjeeling – Renowned as the best of the best in the tea world. It is grown high in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. It is a light tea with a grape-like flavor that is enjoyed with large meals.
  
  
• Ceylon Orange – A light, delicate tea from Sri Lanka. It has a distinct flavor and a light golden color. Good for after a meal or mid-afternoon.
  
  
• English Breakfast – This is a strong full bodied tea which is a blend of Indian and Ceylon (Sri Lanka) tea. A true English blend does not contain Chinese tea. This will give a bitter taste.
  
  
• Earl Grey – Another blend of Indian and Ceylon teas which are flavored with the oil of the citrus fruit bergamot. The oil gives the blend a scented aroma and flavor. This is the most popular afternoon tea.
  
  
• Kenyan – A high grade of tea that comes from Africa and is only the top two buds from the tea plant.
  
  
• Lapsang Souchong – A unique Chinese black tea that is dried over burning pine that gives the dried leaves a strong, smoky flavor.
  
  
• Yunnan - A Well region of China that produces dark malty teas and golden bud teas.