How can you tell good quality tea?
July 23, 2020
Identifying good quality tea involves multiple senses: sight, smell, touch, and of course, taste. Here are a few things to consider:
- Appearance: Quality tea leaves should generally have a vibrant color, although the specific color can depend on the type of tea. Whole leaf teas are often considered higher quality than broken leaves or fannings (the small pieces of tea left over after higher grades are gathered). Whole leaves are generally more aromatic and yield a richer flavor because they retain their essential oils.
- Aroma: High-quality tea often has a fresh and distinct aroma, which should give you a hint of its flavor. Green tea might have a floral or grassy scent, while black tea might be malty or sweet. If there is no aroma or it smells musty, it may not be fresh.
- Taste: Quality tea should have a clear, full-bodied flavor. It should not taste overly bitter or astringent, although some level of these characteristics can be normal, especially in certain types of tea. The flavor should also have some level of complexity and linger pleasantly on the palate after you swallow.
- Infused Leaf: After steeping, good quality tea leaves should unfurl or 'blossom' in the hot water. The leaves should look fresh and whole. If they are broken or look overly aged, it might be a sign of lower quality.
- Packaging: Good quality teas are usually well-packaged to preserve their freshness. Look for packages that protect the tea from light, air, and moisture. Some of the best teas come in aluminum-lined bags or tins.
- Transparency: Quality tea brands often provide detailed information about their teas, such as where it was grown, when it was harvested, and how it was processed. This transparency can be a sign of quality and authenticity.
- Price: While not always the case, higher-quality teas often come with a higher price tag. This is because they're typically made with better-quality leaves and more careful processing.
It's also important to note that determining the quality of tea can also come down to personal preference. Everyone has different tastes and what one person considers a high-quality tea, another might not enjoy as much. The best way to find good quality tea is to sample a variety of brands and types to see what suits your personal taste the best.
