10 Types of Tea: A Guide to Flavours, Origins and Brewing

By the Tea & Lifestyle Editorial Desk

Tea is enjoyed in different ways around the world. Some people prefer a strong cup of black tea in the morning, while others enjoy delicate floral infusions in the evening. From traditional teas to colourful herbal drinks, there is a world of flavours waiting to be explored.

Understanding different types of tea can help you discover new flavours and choose a drink that suits your preferences.

1. Black Tea: Bold and Full-Bodied

Made from Camellia sinensis leaves, black tea undergoes extensive oxidation, creating its characteristic dark colour and robust flavour. Depending on its origin, it can taste malty, earthy or brisk.

Best enjoyed: In the morning or afternoon, plain or with milk.

Brewing tip: Use hot water and follow the recommended steeping time. Black tea generally contains caffeine.

2. Green Tea: Fresh and Delicate

Green tea is made from leaves that are heated during processing to limit oxidation. Its flavour ranges from grassy and vegetal to nutty and lightly sweet.

Best enjoyed: During a morning or afternoon break.

Brewing tip: Water slightly below boiling can help produce a smoother cup. Green tea generally contains caffeine.

3. Matcha: Concentrated Green Tea

Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder whisked into water rather than steeped and removed. It has a vibrant green colour and a distinctive flavour that can be grassy, rich or slightly sweet.

Best enjoyed: Whisked with water or prepared as a matcha latte.

Brewing tip: Sift the powder and whisk with warm water until smooth. Matcha contains caffeine.

4. Chamomile Tea: A Gentle Floral Infusion

Chamomile tea is prepared from chamomile flowers and is appreciated for its mild floral aroma and delicate flavour. Pure chamomile tea is naturally caffeine-free and often enjoyed as part of an evening routine.

Best enjoyed: In the evening or whenever you want a caffeine-free drink.

Brewing tip: Steep according to the product instructions, commonly for around five minutes. Evidence for specific health benefits remains limited.

5. Blue Pea Flower Tea: Naturally Blue

Also known as butterfly pea flower tea, this colourful infusion is made from Clitoria ternatea flowers. Its striking blue colour can shift towards purple when an acidic ingredient, such as lemon juice, is added.

Best enjoyed: Hot or chilled, with lemon for a colourful twist.

Brewing tip: Steep the flowers in hot water and adjust the strength to taste. Pure blue pea flower tea is naturally caffeine-free.

6. Jasmine Tea: Fragrant and Floral

Jasmine tea is commonly made by scenting tea leaves with jasmine blossoms. Many varieties use a green tea base, creating a fragrant drink with floral notes and a fresh finish.

Best enjoyed: During an afternoon break or with a light meal.

Brewing tip: Check the tea base and follow the recommended water temperature. Jasmine tea made with green or black tea generally contains caffeine.

7. Lavender Tea: An Aromatic Herbal Drink

Lavender tea is prepared using culinary lavender flowers. Its distinctive floral fragrance and herbal flavour make it a popular choice among people who enjoy botanical infusions.

Best enjoyed: On its own or as part of a floral blend.

Brewing tip: Use lavender intended for food or beverage preparation and follow the recommended quantity.

8. Mint Tea: Refreshing and Cooling

Mint tea is made from leaves such as peppermint or spearmint. Its fresh aroma and cooling flavour make it popular after meals or during warmer weather.

Best enjoyed: Hot or chilled.

Brewing tip: Steep fresh or dried mint leaves in hot water. Peppermint may worsen acid reflux in some people.

9. Earl Grey: Black Tea with Bergamot

Earl Grey is traditionally a black tea flavoured with bergamot, a citrus fruit. It combines the strength of black tea with a distinctive citrus aroma.

Best enjoyed: In the morning or afternoon, with or without milk.

Brewing tip: Follow the instructions for your particular blend. Traditional black-tea-based Earl Grey contains caffeine.

10. Kashmiri-Style Tea: A Regional Tradition

Kashmiri tea traditions include distinctive recipes and preparation methods. One well-known variety is noon chai, often made with green tea, milk and salt. Ingredients and techniques vary by region and household.

Best enjoyed: Prepared according to the regional recipe.

Brewing tip: Follow a recipe for the specific style you want to experience.

How to Choose the Right Tea

The best tea depends on your flavour preferences and daily routine.

• Prefer strong flavours? Try black tea or Earl Grey.

• Enjoy fresh, vegetal notes? Explore green tea or matcha.

• Love floral aromas? Consider chamomile, jasmine or lavender.

• Want a colourful drink? Try blue pea flower tea.

• Prefer refreshing flavours? Mint tea may be a good choice.

• Avoiding caffeine? Choose pure herbal infusions and check the ingredients of blends.

Why Brewing Matters

Water temperature, steeping time and the quantity of tea all influence flavour. Follow the instructions supplied with your tea, then make small adjustments to suit your taste.

Store tea in an airtight container away from moisture, heat and direct sunlight to help preserve its aroma and quality.

Final Thoughts

From bold black tea and rich matcha to delicate flowers and refreshing herbs, the world of tea offers something for almost every preference.

Explore different varieties, experiment with brewing methods and enjoy discovering the flavours you love most.

Editorial note: Caffeine content and ingredients vary by tea type and product. Herbal infusions may not suit everyone. Check product labels and seek professional advice if you have concerns about allergies or medication interactions.