Enjoying a Cup of Tea

After water, tea is the most widely drunk beverage on the planet, but it’s used for far more than to quench the thirst.

Tea is there at all levels and on all occasions in peoples lives. It has a high standing at social events, and celebrations.

Sultry afternoon teas on the lawn, or high teas with dainty cucumber sandwiches and exquisite cakes taken in the conservatory, as practised by the English, or the gentle refinement of the Chinese and Japanese ritualized traditional tea taking.

Middle Eastern countries take pleasure in having tea at the centre of their social gatherings, and India serves tea at all domestic gatherings and functions.

Different Types of Tea

There are a least 4 different types of tea;

Black Tea; this is oxidized more than the other leafs, and is therefore stronger. It is the most widely drunk tea in the U.K. There are many different types of Black tea:

• English Breakfast Tea
• Assam
• Darjeeling
• Ceylon Tea

Green Tea; is made from one particular leaf, and has very little oxidization. It is widely regarded for its health benefits, and as a natural source of antioxidants.

• LongJing
• Schincha

Oolong Tea; a traditional Chinese tea, also grown in Taiwan. The leaves need to be brewed for longer, and can be used more than once. The flavour can actually improve the more times it is brewed.

• Ti Kuan Yin
• Formosa Oolong

White Tea; A premium tea, it is less processed and the lightest tea. It has a slightly sweeter more delicate taste. A more expensive tea, loved by The Chinese Emperors..

• White Peony
• White Silver Needles
• White Darjeeling 

There are also lots of herbal and fruit teas.

Put the Kettle on

Whether tea’s taken at the beginning of the day, as a pick me up. At the end of the day as a relaxant.  For greeting visitors, or for its health benefits. Tea is a massive part of our lives and culture, and that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon.

Enjoy your cuppa!