A guide to different tea varieties

The only difference between teas is the way they are grown, harvested and made.

What is White Tea?

The white tea has been dried only. The lightest and most delicate of all teas, it retains the highest antioxidant levels. Best teas are grassy and sweet with little or no bitterness. It is best to drink this tea on its own, so you can enjoy the delicate taste. To enjoy a tea of your choice, visit an Exeter Cafe like //fresha.org/exeter-cafe/

What is Green Tea?

Green tea can be steamed or fired at high temperature shortly after harvest. As with white wines, the flavours are as diverse as they come. It is worth £1,000 per kilo, and the leaves are smooth and delicious. Cheaper leaves are bitter and have a seaweedy taste. Green tea goes well with spicy foods.

What is an Oolong?

Oolong tea is a hybrid between black and green teas, partially oxidised. Darker teas are more roasted, nutty and fruity. Lighter ones are more green. The most versatile tea to pair with any food, from steak to cheesecake.

What is Black Tea?

Black tea must be fully oxidised in order to achieve the most intense flavour. Best handcrafted leaves can have a taste that is floral or chocolatey, but cheaper varieties tend to be bitter and more one-dimensional. The best way to enjoy black tea is with desserts.

What is a flavoured or scented tea?

Earl Grey tea can be flavoured or scented using citrus oils like bergamot or jasmine. The majority of commercial teas use flavours and fragrances. Many fruit teas also rely more on flavourings than actual fruit. Look at the label. It might not sound as healthy as you think. Pure, high-quality tea is a better choice.

What is herbal tea?

Infusions made from dried herbs like lemon verbena and mint, or chamomile. Herbs do not contain caffeine like tea, and can therefore be consumed at the end of the day. They also lack antioxidants.

Gabriel Hiott

Gabriel Hiott