What is real tea?

Tea is a beverage made by brewing leaves from the plant, Camellia sinensis. Camellia sinensis is a sub-tropical plant and the derivatives of Camellia sinensis are considered “true teas”. Beverages made from plants or flowers other than Camellia sinensis, including herbs, chamomile and rooibos, are not strictly speaking teas, but should be called herbal teas or tisanes.

The core of all that we call “real tea” is the plant Camellia sinensis . This plant has been cultivated and loved for centuries and is the basis for the different types of tea we know today.

When I talk to people about tea, they are often surprised when I tell them that all the different types of tea they know actually come from the same plant. Without thinking about it too much, you might think that white, green and black tea come from different plants, but they don't.

When we talk about tea, we are talking about the nuances that come from one and the same plant – a plant that has changed and evolved in step with human culture and history. There are a number of factors that distinguish all types of tea from each other. Among them are the time of harvest, which parts of the plant are harvested, which plant variety, and the processing method.

The different types of tea

Although all true teas come from the same plant, there is great variation in taste, aroma and appearance. This variation is mainly due to how the tea is processed after harvesting, but in this course we will only look at the types themselves and their characteristic features – without going into the technical processes. Let's take a closer look at the most famous types:

1. Green tea:
   Green tea is known for its fresh and often slightly grassy flavor. It is popular for its supposed health benefits, including its high antioxidant content. Green tea is made by rapidly heating the leaves to stop the oxidation process, which preserves their natural green color and pure flavor.

2. Black tea:
   Black tea has a deeper and more robust flavor than green tea. This tea often has a rich aroma with hints of malt, spice, or even chocolate. It is often used in morning or afternoon routines, and is a favorite in many Western cultures, especially in the United Kingdom, where it has a long tradition.

3. White tea:
   White tea is often considered the most delicate of all teas. It is often made from young tea buds that are harvested before they are fully opened. The flavor is mild and subtle, and the tea has a light, almost transparent color. White tea is a good choice for those who want a gentle flavor and a light drink that also has an exclusive character.

4. Oolong tea:
   Oolong tea is somewhere between green and black tea. It has a partially oxidized process, which gives it a unique balance of freshness and depth. Its flavor can vary widely, from floral and fruity to more roasted and complex notes, depending on its origin and brewing method.

5. Other variants:
   There are also other types of tea, such as yellow tea and the mature, fermented varieties known as pu-erh. These types have their own distinctive characteristics and flavor profiles, which have evolved through centuries of cultural adaptation and regional innovation.

The origin and history of tea

Tea originated in the East, with a history spanning thousands of years. Legends tell of how the Chinese Emperor Shen Nong, a great devotee of herbal medicine, discovered tea by chance one day when leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant fell into his boiling water. This accidental discovery quickly developed into a tradition that spread throughout China and later on to Japan, Korea and other parts of Asia.

Over the centuries, tea has played a central role in many cultures. In China, tea was used both as a beverage and as part of medicine and ceremonies. Japan developed its own tea ceremonies – the famous “chanoyu” – where precision, calm and aesthetics are the focus. Tea has not only been a beverage, but a way to show respect, create community and achieve inner peace. This cultural value of tea has helped make it an essential part of everyday life, not only in Asia, but all over the world.

Why drink tea?

There are many reasons why tea is so popular around the world. For many, it's about the taste – the unique combination of bitterness, sweetness, and floral or spicy aromas make tea a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed for any occasion. For others, it's the health benefits that are highlighted, such as the natural antioxidants that can contribute to a healthy immune system and a sense of well-being.

Tea is also a beverage that invites calm and reflection. Many people appreciate the simple act of brewing a cup of tea and taking the time to enjoy the moment. In a busy everyday life, this ritualistic break can be a valuable way to stop and gather your thoughts.

One of the most fascinating aspects of tea is how it can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences. There is a wide range of teas available, each appealing to different senses. Some prefer the clean, fresh taste of green tea, while others may prefer the powerful and invigorating sensation that black tea can provide. Some choose the subtle elegance of white tea, while oolong tea’s nuanced flavor profile captures the attention of those seeking something unique.

This diversity allows tea to help create personal rituals and memories. Perhaps you have a favorite tea to drink in the morning to start the day with energy, or a special tea that you associate with pleasant times with friends and family. No matter how you use tea in your life, it is precisely this personal connection that makes tea so special to us.

Summary

This simple introduction is intended to be a gateway to a deeper understanding of the world of tea. In the upcoming courses, we will gradually explore other aspects of tea – everything from how to brew it perfectly, to how to describe its complex flavor nuances and even which tea may be best for your health.