Winter is just around the corner, and most of us prefer to turn to tea for some warmth and coziness this season. Consumed hot, but also cold, tea is such a universal, yet versatile beverage that has been around for centuries. There isn’t a culture or nation in the world that does not consume tea.
Enjoying a cup of tea has become a relaxing experience which many people around the world turn to. Whether you need something hot to wake up to in the morning or something to wind you down at the end of a long day, tea is the drink of choice for anyone.
There are just so many types and flavors out there, we will try to narrow things down a little for you. First we will look at the types of tea: black tea, green tea, oolong tea, white tea, pu-erh tea, and of course herbal tea.
Black Tea
Black teas are probably the most popular in the world and they are bolder in taste as they contain more tannins, the compound which is also found in red wine. They are best served with lemon or milk. The most known varieties of black teas are:
- Assam, which is used in chai tea and breakfast blends.
- Ceylon, grown in Sri Lanka is used in fruity blends as well as Earl Grey.
- Earl Grey is basically Ceylon tea with bergamot.
- Darjeeling is grown in India and depending on the season they vary in flavor from floral to strong.
- Chai is black tea whose flavor is enhanced with spices.
- English breakfast is a strong mix of black teas.
Green Tea
Green teas are cultivated in Asia, but they have grown in popularity in the western world in the last decades. The leaves are not oxidized which is why they remain green and they are also not as bold in taste as black teas.
Some of the most popular green teas are Matcha, which is ground into powder, and Sencha, which is very popular in Japan.
Oolong Tea
We also have to mention Oolong – a mix of black and green teas which are originally from China with a flavor that’s basically a full bodied blend of both. The longer the oxidation period the bolder the taste.
White Tea
White teas are lighter in taste as they are neither oxidized nor roasted. The flavors are more delicate and floral with a nutty undertone. They are mainly cultivated in China and the flavors vary by region.
Pu-Erh Tea
Pu-Erh teas originate from the Chinese province of Yunnan and they have been used as medicine for centuries. Their properties are rich and earthy which are good for healing several ailments.
Herbal tea
Herbal teas are the lightest in flavor out of all of them, and many have fruity and/or floral undertones. Most are completely caffeine free which is why they can be enjoyed at any time.
Now that we had a little introduction to the different types and varieties of teas available, we can take a look at some of the best tea brands of 2023.
10. TWG
The founder of the company TWG which is based in Singapore, Taha Bouqdib can be described as a real tea connoisseur. His love of tea is obvious in the quality of teas they acquire and sell.
Silver Moon, a luxurious blend of green teas is one of the varieties you must try at least once in your life despite its hefty price tag.
9. Jade Leaf Matcha
An acquired taste for Westerners, matcha has been around in Japan for centuries. The Japanese culture puts high importance on rituals, and the tea ceremony is a sacred ritual.
If you’re ready to experience matcha for yourself- you can skip the ceremony- the Jade Leaf Ceremonial matcha is your best bet.
8. Tea Forte
For those of you who love to try many different types and varieties of teas, the Tea Tasting Assortment from Tea Forte is a great option.
It consists of 40 different varieties of individually wrapped tea bags, from Jasmine green to Strawberry apple herbal tea. There’s literally enough options for every taste.
7. Jinglong Tea Factory
For those of you who never heard of pu-erh tea before and want to give it a try, we recommend going with Jinglong Tea Factory Pu-erh tea.
The disks of tea come in a bamboo tube and you can break them off and the leaves break off when you brew it. It’s a very earthy tea, so be warned.
6. Twinings
Their Pure White Fujian Chinese tea is one of the best on the market, and the price is very reasonable when compared to other brands.
White tea doesn’t need to be steeped for longer than two minutes in order to bring its real flavor out.
5. Numi Organic
When trying chai tea for the first time, you might get surprised by how spicy it tastes, but it is so good it warms you all over.
Try their Golden Chai when you want to cut down on your coffee consumption. Although it offers quite a high level of caffeine, it comes with the benefits of tea, so it’s a win-win!
4. FGO Organics
The Oolong Organic tea bags from FGO are definitely a great choice for the oolong tea lovers. This tea is grown in China but the hemp paper bags are from California and certified by the USDA.
The great thing about these tea bags is that you can reuse them, as the flavor changes the more times it is brewed, so great bang for your buck.
3. Yogi Tea
Yogi Tea is known for the best herbal teas out there. Their Sweet Tangerine Positive Energy is a must try, as it will instantly bring up your mood and positive energy, just as the name suggests.
Unlike most herbal teas, this one does contain small levels of caffeine for an extra boost, but the sweet aroma of the lotus flower combined with the lemon myrtle make this a lovely blend.
2. Harney & Sons
A popular brand in the western world, they are well known for their great quality black teas. This Hot Cinnamon Spice is amazing for those cold chilly nights.
The cloves, cinnamon and orange peel are a comforting treat for your senses, so make sure to put it on your list of teas to try.
1. Vahdam
This brand is definitely a nice splurge which you must try. Their Earl Grey Citrus Black tea blend is probably the nicest available on the market right now. It is a blend of the best Indian black teas and Bergamot oils, and the aromas are divine.
Another great choice is their organic Turmeric wellness detox for those days when you need an immunity booster.
Hopefully you found some inspiration and discovered some new teas you can give a chance. There’s a whole world of flavors and so many varieties from the best tea brands just waiting to be discovered.
