Types of Teas
All teas are divided into four basic types - black, green, oolong, and a very rare white,
based on how the leaves are processed. Some teas are named after the district they
grow; Assam and Darjeeling. Others are named after people: Queen Mary, Earl Grey or
Prince of Wales. The Russian Caravan tea is named in honor of the route to its trade.
Some are named after the flavor which has been added to the tea - such as Jasmine.
Others are named after their type, the size of their leaf (Orange Pekoe), a combination of
type and size, or after their use. (English Breakfast and Irish Breakfast). Below you will
find a list of common teas, their flavor and helpful hints.
Black
teas
are the most familiar to American drinkers. Examples are: Earl Grey, Assam,
Darjeelijng, Ceylon Breakfast, English Breakfast, Irish Breakfast, Keemun and Yunnan.
Earl Grey:
Exceptional fragrance. Flavorful afternoon tea. Served with or without
milk.
Assam: Enjoyed any time of the day - especially in the morning. Best served with
milk.
Darjeeling: Full bodied. For tea lovers. A blend that can be enjoyed morning or
evening. Sewed without milk and with lemon.
Ceylon Breakfast: Blend of Ceylon teas. Milder than English Breakfast or Irish
Breakfast. Delicious any time of day. Served with lemon. Good iced.
English Breakfast: Full-bodied, robust, richly colored brew. A favorite in the morning.
Served with milk and lemon. Good iced.
Irish Breakfast: A rich tea, producing a strong thick liquor. Enjoyable on a cold, wet
afternoon. Served with milk and after a hearty breakfast.
Keemun: The burgundy of teas. Orchid flavored. Enjoyed after an Oriental meal.
Green
teas
are a light colored tea, and usually an acquired taste here in the Western
world. Examples are: Gunpowder, Bancha and Tencha.
Gunpowder; Pungent in flavor. Best served after a Chinese meal, after dinner, or on
a hot evening.
Oolong teas
are partially processed. They are a darker tea. They have a sweet, mellow
taste and a heavier body. Examples are: Formosa, Jasmine and Russian Caravan.
Formosa: Like ripened peaches. A cross between green and black tea.
Enjoyed mid-morning, afternoon or evening. Good after a meal. Served without
lemon and milk.
Jasmine: An exotic tea scented with Jasmine flowers. Enjoyed in the afternoon, after
dinner or late evening. Sipped slowly. Served with lemon and no milk.
Herbal teas
are made up of a variety of plant parts, from leaves and flowers to roots and
bark.
Mint; Favorites are lemon mint and peppermint.
Rose Hips:
Makes a brilliant red tea.