・The origins of tea and its spread around the world.
Many different types of tea, including black tea, are grown around the world, but tea originated in the mountainous regions of southern China, from Yunnan Province to Tibet. One theory is that tea was consumed before 2,000 BC, not as a luxury but as a medicine.
One theory is that tea was created by the Chinese emperor Shennong (Shennong) in 2,000 BC, when a tea leaf fell into hot water and he drank it. Tea then spread throughout China, where different varieties and production methods developed.
Tea spread to other countries and unique tea ceremonies and cultures developed in Japan, Korea and Taiwan. It then spread to Europe and other continents, creating different tea cultures around the world. Tea has now become a globally popular beverage and there are many different types and blends.
・Different types of tea are made from the same camellia tea tree.
Tea is made from the leaves of the same tree, known as "chanoki". Depending on the degree to which these tea leaves are fermented, the color, aroma and taste of the tea can vary.
Depending on the degree and method of fermentation, the tea can change from green tea to oolong tea and from oolong tea to black tea.
1) Green Tea
Green tea is well known in Japan. It is made by heating and drying tea leaves immediately after plucking, before fermentation has progressed. There are different ways of applying heat, such as kettle, hot air and sun drying, and each has a different flavor and aroma compared to Japanese green tea made by steaming.
2）Blue Tea (Oolong Tea)
A semi-fermented tea, Oolong is also written as blue tea and is called "Chincha" because the fermented brown leaves and unfermented green leaves give it a bluish appearance. After wilting in the sun for 10-20 minutes, the tea is allowed to wilt indoors for several hours. The tea leaves are stirred to bring out the characteristic aroma of Oolong tea. The tea leaves are then roasted over high heat.
The degree of fermentation of oolong tea depends on the degree of wilting, so there are many types of tea, ranging from less fermented teas with a color similar to green tea, to those with much more advanced fermentation, which are more similar to black tea.
3）Black Tea
In the 17th century, when trade between China and Britain flourished, oolong tea was transported by ship and fermented into black tea. In Britain, black tea was preferred to oolong, and black tea gradually developed.
Black tea is made by maximizing fermentation. The plucked tea leaves are left to wither slowly in a well-ventilated room for about 15-16 hours. The tea leaves are then rubbed with oxidizing enzymes to accelerate the oxidation process, creating the beautiful aroma and color unique to black tea.
・Different types of black tea from all over the world.
Different types of tea are produced all over the world, with each country and region having its own well-known varieties with unique characteristics. The following are some of the well-known types of black tea;
a) Assam Tea
Produced in the Assam region of India, this tea is characterized by its strong flavour and dark colour. Its distinctive flavor and strong properties have made it a favorite among tea lovers. It is particularly popular as a morning beverage due to its energizing effect at breakfast time. Assam tea is usually enjoyed as iced or milk tea.
b) Darjeeling Tea
A fine black tea from the Darjeeling region of India. It has a light, smooth flavor and is often referred to as the "Champagne of teas". Its flavor varies depending on the season and the altitude at which the tea leaves are plucked.
It also has a bright golden or amber color and is beautiful to look at. Transparency and depth of color are considered indicators of high quality.
c) Ceylon Tea
Black tea produced in Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon). It has a fresh, strong flavor and is often used in afternoon teas and blends. It has a light amber color and is beautifully clear in appearance. The flavor is clear and bright. It also has a rich astringency and fullness. Its strong flavor and blending characteristics make it suitable for iced tea, milk tea and afternoon tea. Different varieties and regions offer different flavors, catering to a wide range of tastes.
d) Keemun Black Tea
Black tea from Anhui Province, China. Mild and sweet with floral and fruity notes. Sometimes used in English blends.
It has a characteristic floral and sweet flavor that varies according to the altitude and season of plucking. Its low astringency makes it easy to drink and popular with a wide range of people. Its mild and aromatic nature makes it ideal for morning cups and afternoon tea. It can also be enjoyed with milk and sugar.
e) Earl Grey
Traditional black tea infused with bergamot oil. Has a fresh aroma and citrus flavor. One of the most popular blends in the United Kingdom. This particular flavor is considered to be what makes Earl Grey so good. Bergamot is a citrus fruit with notes of lime and orange. This fragrance gives Earl Grey its unique fresh and floral atmosphere.
It can also be enjoyed with milk and sugar. It is one of the most popular teas for an English afternoon tea.
f) Rooibos Tea
Rooibos tea is an herbal tea made from a plant native to South Africa, usually classified as a black tea. It is caffeine free, reddish brown in color and has a sweet, mild flavor. It is suitable for those concerned about caffeine and for late night drinking. Because it is caffeine free, it is often drunk for relaxation or before bedtime. Rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress in the body and contribute to good health. It also has a mild taste and is not as astringent as black or green tea. This makes it generally easy to drink and a popular herbal tea.
There is a wide variety of teas in the world, characterized by their production methods and the regions where they are grown. Enjoy a moment of elegance with a cup of tea and a nice cup of tea that fits your life perfectly.
