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Black Tea

Black Teas are said to go through a "fermentation" or "oxidation" process. The enzymes in the leaf are released on to the leaf by crushing, which turns the leaf black. The longer a tea is oxidized, the darker it gets. The skill of plucking the leaves, processing, and in sorting the finished leaves determines the quality of the tea.

Teas from different countries, growing regions within the countries and gardens within the regions can vary, just as wine grapes vary to make variations among merlots. Darjeeling teas are light liquoring, and have a characteristic muscat grape flavor. Keemun, a classic Chinese black tea are winey and toasty. Assams are very full-bodied and malty in flavor.

Preparation: These teas, whether loose leaf or bagged, are brewed with boiling water for three to five minutes. They can be taken with milk, if preferred. One level teaspoon of loose tea, or one tea bag makes a five ounce cup.

Here is a sampling of our black tea selection.

Lucky Irish Breakfast - Deep, Dark, Delightful. A traditional blend of Assam (India) and high-grown Ceylon (Sri Lanka) leaves. This hearty brew has a malty character, brisk finish and a rich color. Sure to lift the fog of a cloudy mind. Enjoy with a splash of milk for a cup that satisfies well beyond breakfast.

British Breakfast - The Perfect Cuppa a robust blend of quality black leaves, hearty enough to make any Brit smile. A savory mixture of China, India, Ceylon and Kenya leaves is great with a splash of milk.

Assam Breakfast - Back In The Body Tea--The robust, malty character of this tea comes from pure, unblended Assam leaves grown in Northern India. The hearty body makes it delicious with warm milk.

Republic Darjeeling - The Champagne of Teas --This Darjeeling tea blend has the smooth character of second flush leaves with the deep qualities of third flush leaves, resulting in a full, round cup.

All Day Breakfast - Keemun Oolong Tea - Keemun, a small and robust leaf, is only cultivated in the Anhui province, a region of southern China. A touch of Formosan oolong adds a hint of smokiness to this sweet cup.

Lapsang Souchong - The Tea of Mystery - The entrancing, smokey character of this tea is achieved by an elaborate process. The hand-picked leaves are smoked over pinewood embers, for a distinct and mysterious cup.

Golden Yunnan - Elevate The Senses Tea - From the cloud-veiled mountains of Yunnan, the birthplace of tea, this rare, high-grown, golden tippy Yunnan is one of the most prized China black teas in the world. Exquisitely smooth and malty with pleasing floral overtones and a tinge of citrus. Drink with a touch of sugar and a splash of milk, delicious over ice.