Black Teas
About Black Tea
Black tea is generally stronger than other teas. Black tea comes from two types of plants. Camellia sinensis assamica a larger-leafed varietal of the tea plant that is typically used to produce black tea. Originating in the Assam district of India, it grows in warm, moist climates.
Black tea is different from green tea because the tea leaves are allowed to fully oxidize before they are heat-processed and dried. During oxidation, oxygen interacts with the tea plant’s cell walls to turn the leaves the rich dark brown to black color that black tea leaves are famous for. Oxidation alters the flavor profile of a black tea as well, helping add malty, fruity or even smoky notes, depending on the tea.
The most popular black tea blends are Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Irish Breakfast, Afternoon Tea, and Masala Chai.