Ceylon tea, also known as Sri Lankan tea, is a type of black tea that is grown in the scenic Uva highlands of Sri Lanka. Renowned for its high quality and robust flavors, Ceylon tea offers a delightful tea-drinking experience for enthusiasts around the world.
The tea production in Sri Lanka dates back to the 1860s when British settlers introduced tea cultivation to the country’s lush green hills. Today, Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea producers in the world, known for its exceptional tea varieties.
What sets Ceylon tea apart is its exceptional flavor profile. The tea from the Uva highlands is carefully crafted to offer a smooth yet robust taste. It is infused with notes of malt and pine wood, resulting in a truly unique and satisfying cup of tea.
Whether you prefer to enjoy it as a hot morning brew to kickstart your day or as a refreshing iced tea in the afternoon, Ceylon tea can be adapted to suit any occasion. Its versatility makes it a favorite among tea lovers who value high-quality teas with distinct flavors.
Key Takeaways:
- Ceylon tea, also known as Sri Lankan tea, is a type of black tea grown in the Uva highlands of Sri Lanka.
- It is known for its exceptional quality, robust flavors, and versatile taste profile.
- Flavors of Ceylon tea include malt and pine wood, offering a unique and satisfying tea experience.
- Ceylon tea can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it suitable for any time of the day.
- Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea producers in the world, with a rich tea production heritage.
The Tea Specs and Benefits of Ceylon Tea
When it comes to Ceylon Tea, the specifications and benefits are worth exploring. Let’s delve into the fascinating details of this exquisite tea.
Tea Origin and Elevation
Ceylon tea is grown in the Uva highlands of Sri Lanka. The region’s elevation of 1030 meters lends its unique characteristics to the tea, making it a sought-after variety.
Picking and Leaf Grade
In May 2022, the tea leaves are carefully handpicked, ensuring only one bud and two leaves are plucked. These meticulous selection criteria guarantee the finest quality tea leaves. Ceylon tea from the Uva highlands is classified as Broken Orange Pekoe, denoting its exceptional grade.
The Craftsmanship Behind Ceylon Tea
Producing Ceylon tea is an art form. After picking, the leaves undergo a process of withering, rolling, and drying. This meticulous craftsmanship preserves the nuances of the tea and enhances its flavors. The result is a tea that is highly regarded for its brightness, citrusy notes, malty undertones, and hints of pine wood.
The Energizing Benefits of Ceylon Tea
Ceylon tea is not just a delight for the senses; it also offers numerous health benefits. The tea contains caffeine, providing a natural energy boost. Whether you need a pick-me-up in the morning or a revitalizing beverage in the afternoon, Ceylon tea is a perfect choice.
| Origin | Elevation | Picked | Leaf Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uva highlands, Sri Lanka | 1030 meters | May 2022 | Broken Orange Pekoe |
Ceylon tea offers a delightful sensory experience with its citrusy, malty, and pine wood flavors. This unique combination of flavors, coupled with its energizing effect, makes Ceylon tea a beloved choice among tea connoisseurs.
Brew Instructions for Ceylon Tea
When it comes to brewing Ceylon Tea, the Western style is the most common method used. This simple and straightforward approach brings out the flavors and aromas of the tea, allowing you to savor its richness. Follow these instructions for the perfect cup of Ceylon Tea:
- Water Temperature: Start by heating the water to 95°C (200°F) to achieve the optimal brewing temperature.
- Brewing Time: Brew the tea for 3 minutes to allow the leaves to fully infuse and release their flavors. If you prefer a stronger brew, you can extend the brewing time up to an additional 1 minute for each subsequent brew.
- Serving: Enjoy your cup of Ceylon Tea as is, or add milk and sugar to taste. The creamy texture of milk complements the tea’s robust flavors, while sugar can enhance its natural sweetness.
- Cold Brewed Iced Tea: For a refreshing twist, you can also brew Ceylon Tea as an iced tea. To do this, cold-brew the tea by placing the desired amount of loose leaves in a pitcher of room temperature water. Refrigerate the pitcher for 8 hours to allow the tea to steep slowly. You can also add lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor.
Brewing Ceylon Tea is a delightful experience that allows you to savor the rich flavors and aroma of this exceptional tea. Whether enjoyed hot or cold, with milk and sugar or on its own, Ceylon Tea is a versatile beverage that can be tailored to your preferences. Elevate your tea-drinking ritual with the exquisite flavors of Ceylon Tea.
The Story Behind Amba Estate – A Sustainable Tea Farm
Amba Estate, located in the scenic Uva highlands of Sri Lanka, is more than just an organic farm. It is a testament to sustainability and a beacon of employee empowerment. This picturesque estate is the birthplace of Ceylon tea, renowned for its exceptional quality and flavors.
At Amba Estate, we believe in cultivating tea that is not only good for the environment but also for the people who work tirelessly to bring it to your cup. We are committed to organic farming practices, ensuring that every cup of tea is free from harmful chemicals and artificial fertilizers.
But our commitment to sustainability goes beyond the tea itself. We believe in giving back to our employees and the community. In addition to providing fair salaries and benefits, we give 10% of our revenues directly to our employees, ensuring that they share in the success of our farm.
One way we empower our employees is through rotational work. Unlike traditional tea plantations where workers are assigned repetitive tasks, we offer our tea pickers the opportunity to be involved in every step of the tea production process. This not only instills a sense of pride but also enhances their skills and knowledge.
Another aspect of our commitment to sustainability is ensuring the fertility of our soil. We achieve this by utilizing green plant material and manure from our own herd of rescue cows. This natural approach not only enriches the soil but also promotes the health and well-being of the entire ecosystem surrounding our farm.
“At Amba Estate, we strive to create a harmonious balance between nature, quality, and the people who make it all possible. Our organic farm is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and the pursuit of excellence in every cup of Ceylon tea.”
– Amba Estate Team
The Lion Logo and Quality Certification
The Lion Logo, also known as the Ceylon Tea Symbol of Quality, is a certification owned by the Sri Lanka Tea Board. It signifies that tea manufacturers meet the high standards set by the board. The presence of the Lion Logo on a pack of tea guarantees that it contains 100% pure Ceylon Tea packed in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka Tea Board has a special Tea Tasting unit that assesses the quality of Ceylon Tea prior to auction and export. Tea manufacturers must meet strict quality standards to use the Lion Logo.
The Lion Logo is a mark of excellence that assures consumers of the authenticity and exceptional quality of Ceylon Tea. It serves as a seal of approval from the Sri Lanka Tea Board, ensuring that tea enthusiasts can enjoy the finest tea experience. The logo is prominently displayed on packaging, enabling consumers to make an informed choice when purchasing Ceylon Tea.
Through the Lion Logo, the Sri Lanka Tea Board aims to maintain the reputation of Ceylon Tea as a world-class product. The logo embodies the rich heritage, meticulous craftsmanship, and dedication of tea manufacturers in upholding the highest quality standards. It is a symbol of the passion and expertise that goes into every cup of Ceylon Tea.
By adhering to the strict guidelines set by the Sri Lanka Tea Board, tea manufacturers demonstrate their commitment to upholding the legacy of Ceylon Tea. The Lion Logo serves as a guarantee of authenticity, quality, and traceability, ensuring that consumers can enjoy the true essence of Ceylon Tea.
The Flavors and Experience of Ceylon Highlands Tea
When it comes to experiencing the finest flavors of Ceylon tea, look no further than Ceylon Highlands. This premium variety of Ceylon tea is meticulously handpicked and rolled in small batches at the renowned Amba Estate. With its distinct taste profile and artisanal production methods, Ceylon Highlands tea offers a truly exceptional tea-drinking experience.
Classified as Broken Orange Pekoe, Ceylon Highlands tea boasts a rich and diverse flavor profile. Its bright, citrusy notes provide a refreshing tang, while hints of malt and pine wood add depth and complexity to each sip. These delightful flavors are the result of the careful craftsmanship and expertise that goes into the production of Ceylon Highlands tea.
One of the key elements that sets Ceylon Highlands tea apart is its artisanal production process. At Amba Estate, this exquisite tea is crafted using time-honored methods, ensuring that each batch receives the utmost attention to detail. The tea leaves are rolled using a mini-roller, which can only process up to 15kg per batch. This limitation guarantees the highest quality and preserves the unique characteristics of the tea leaves, resulting in a truly exceptional taste.
For tea enthusiasts seeking a memorable and enjoyable tasting experience, Ceylon Highlands tea is a must-try. With its enticing flavor profile, artisanal production methods, and dedication to quality, this tea embodies the rich heritage and excellence of Ceylon tea. Discover the extraordinary flavors of Ceylon Highlands tea and elevate your tea-drinking journey to new heights.
FAQ
What is Ceylon tea?
Ceylon tea, also known as Sri Lankan tea, is a type of black tea that is grown in the Uva highlands of Sri Lanka. It is known for its high quality and robust flavors.
What are the flavors of Ceylon tea?
Ceylon tea has notes of malt and pine wood, giving it a unique taste profile. It is characterized by its bright, citrusy, malty, and pine wood flavors.
How should I brew Ceylon tea?
Ceylon tea is typically brewed in the Western style, with a recommended brewing temperature of 95°C. It is advised to brew for 3 minutes, and additional brews can be done for up to 1 minute each.
Can I add milk and sugar to Ceylon tea?
Yes, Ceylon tea can be enjoyed with milk and sugar, although it is also delicious on its own.
Can I make iced tea with Ceylon tea?
Yes, Ceylon tea can be brewed as an iced tea by cold-brewing it with room temperature water for 8 hours in the fridge.
What is Amba Estate?
Amba Estate is an organic farm in the Uva highlands of Sri Lanka that produces teas, coffees, and spices. It focuses on sustainability and is 100% organic.
What is the Lion Logo on Ceylon tea packs?
The Lion Logo, owned by the Sri Lanka Tea Board, is a certification that guarantees the tea contains 100% pure Ceylon Tea packed in Sri Lanka. It signifies high quality.
What is Ceylon Highlands tea?
Ceylon Highlands tea is a premium variety of Ceylon tea produced at Amba Estate. It is handpicked, rolled in small batches, and offers a unique tasting experience.
Source Links
- https://www.basilurtea.com/pages/ceylon-tea
- https://theteawala.com/products/ceylon-black
- https://kirrconcept.com/products/ceylon-highlands
