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When was the last time you thought about where your tea comes from? For many of us in the UK, tea is a comforting staple—a morning pick-me-up or a soothing ritual at the end of a long day. Yet, it’s often taken for granted, seen as something ordinary and unremarkable.
But tea is so much more than just a teabag in your mug. Behind every cup lies a rich tapestry of history, craftsmanship, and tradition. Let’s explore the fascinating world of tea and why it deserves a place of honour in our daily lives.
What Are True Teas? The Basics of Tea
Many people don’t realise that all true teas—whether black, green, white, oolong, or Pu’er—come from the same plant: Camellia sinensis. Yes, the same plant that gives us English Breakfast tea also produces Japanese matcha.
So, what makes them different? It all comes down to how the leaves are processed.
- Black tea is fully oxidised, giving it a bold, robust flavour.
- Green tea is pan-fried or steamed to lock in its fresh, grassy notes.
- White tea is the least processed, retaining a light, floral sweetness.
- Oolong tea undergoes partial oxidation, creating a complex balance of fruity and floral flavours.
- Pu’er tea is fermented, resulting in a deep, earthy profile.
In China, where tea originated, these variations are celebrated as distinct crafts, each tied to specific regions and techniques. For example, I remember visiting Yunnan, the birthplace of Pu’er tea, and seeing ancient tea trees over 500 years old. Unlike the neatly trimmed bushes you might imagine, these trees stood tall, their leaves picked by hand—a testament to the care and tradition behind artisanal tea.
A Brief History of Tea
From Luxury to Everyday Staple
Today, tea is affordable and accessible, with supermarket shelves lined with budget-friendly options. But it wasn’t always this way.
A few hundred years ago, tea was an exotic luxury, imported from China at great expense. By the 17th century, it had become a fashionable drink among the British elite. Its popularity soared, but the high cost of importing tea sparked significant conflict.
The Opium War and British Tea Cultivation
In the 19th century, the UK’s reliance on Chinese tea led to tensions that culminated in the First Opium War. Following the conflict, Britain began cultivating tea in its colonies, including India and Sri Lanka, to reduce dependency on Chinese imports.
Even today, the UK isn’t a major tea-growing nation. Big brands like Yorkshire Tea blend their products locally, but the leaves themselves are sourced from abroad. It’s fascinating to think how tea, once a symbol of luxury, has become a ubiquitous part of British life.
Why Tea Matters Today
At brut tea, we believe it’s time to reimagine how we think about tea. Here’s why:
1. Tea Is a Craft
Like wine or coffee, tea is a product of craftsmanship. From the way it’s grown to how it’s processed, every step impacts its flavour and quality. We want to celebrate tea as an art form, not just a commodity.
2. Tea Is a Ritual
In a fast-paced world, tea offers a moment of calm. Whether it’s brewing a pot of green tea in the morning or sharing a cup of Pu’er after dinner, tea can create meaningful moments of connection and mindfulness.
3. Supporting Tradition and Sustainability
By sourcing teas directly from small-scale farms, we honour the traditions of tea-making while supporting ethical and sustainable practices.
Let’s Rediscover Tea Together
Tea is more than just a drink—it’s a story, a craft, and a connection to history and culture.
So, the next time you brew a cup, take a moment to appreciate the journey it’s been on—from the Camellia sinensis plant to your table. And if you’re ready to explore the world of artisanal teas, we’d love for you to join us on this journey.
Visit our online shop to start your adventure.