What are the different types of tea?

by John Herriott

There are various types of tea, and they can be broadly categorized based on their processing methods and the type of tea plant used. The main types of tea include:

  1. Green Tea:

    • Green tea is made from unoxidized leaves and is one of the least processed types of tea. It retains a high level of antioxidants and is known for its fresh, grassy flavor. Common varieties include Sencha, Matcha, and Gunpowder.

  2. Black Tea:

    • Black tea undergoes full oxidation, resulting in a dark color and robust flavor. It is the most common type of tea in many Western countries. Popular varieties include Assam, Darjeeling, and English Breakfast.

  3. Oolong Tea:

    • Oolong tea is partially oxidized, falling between green and black tea in terms of oxidation level. It can have a wide range of flavors, from floral and fruity to roasted and creamy. Examples include Tie Guan Yin and Dong Ding.

  4. White Tea:

    • White tea is the least processed type of tea, made from young leaves and buds that are simply withered and dried. It has a delicate flavor and lower caffeine content compared to green and black teas. Silver Needle and Bai Mu Dan are common white tea varieties.

  5. Pu-erh Tea:

    • Pu-erh tea is fermented and aged, resulting in a unique flavor profile. It can be either raw (sheng) or ripe (shou), and it often improves with age. Pu-erh is known for its earthy, robust taste.

  6. Herbal Tea:

    • Herbal teas are not technically teas, as they are not made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Instead, they are infusions of herbs, fruits, flowers, or other plant materials. Examples include chamomile, peppermint, and hibiscus tea.

  7. Yellow Tea:

    • Yellow tea is similar to green tea but undergoes an additional step called "yellowing" during processing. This step reduces the grassy flavor of green tea and imparts a milder taste. Huangshan Maofeng is an example of yellow tea.

  8. Flavored and Blended Teas:

    • These teas involve adding flavorings or blending different types of tea to create unique combinations. Earl Grey (flavored with bergamot) and chai (spiced tea) are popular examples.

These categories encompass a wide range of tea varieties, each with its own distinct characteristics and flavors. The diversity of teas allows enthusiasts to explore different tastes and aromas, making tea culture rich and varied across the globe.

Back to Common Questions about Coffee and Espresso