For beginners stepping into the world of tea, the variety can be overwhelming. From delicate white teas to robust black teas, each type offers unique flavors, aromas, and brewing requirements. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the major tea varieties and help you begin your tea journey with confidence.
Understanding True Tea vs. Herbal Tea
Before diving into specific types, it’s important to understand that “true tea” comes from a single plant species: Camellia sinensis. Everything else (like chamomile, rooibos, or mint) is technically an herbal infusion or “tisane.” However, we’ll cover both categories as they’re both integral to the modern tea experience.
True Tea Categories
Black Tea
Characteristics: Fully oxidized, robust, deep amber to red color
Popular Varieties:
Earl Grey (flavored with bergamot)
Darjeeling (the “champagne of teas”)
English Breakfast
Assam
Flavor Profile: Malty, full-bodied, can range from sweet to smoky
Caffeine Content: Highest among true teas (40-70mg per cup)
Green Tea
Characteristics: Unoxidized, light, typically green to yellow in color
Popular Varieties:
Sencha (Japanese)
Dragon Well (Longjing, Chinese)
Gunpowder
Jasmine (scented)
Flavor Profile: Fresh, grassy, sometimes vegetal or nutty
