Tea History
Ceylon Tea
For centuries, Ceylon tea has been known as the finest tea around the world. Tea was first introduced to Sri Lanka by James Taylor in 1867, and the rest, as they say, is history! Ceylon tea consists primarily of black tea, however green tea and other types of tea are also grown. Although Sri Lanka is a comparatively small country, it has a wide range in elevation, which results in the flavours of tea being produced varying greatly depending on the part of the country they originate from. The main differences in flavour are a result of the climate, soil, sun, precipitation, and plant varietals. Although there are regional nuances, Ceylon tea is classically known for bold, full and brisk flavour. A majority of Ceylon tea is picked by hand, which makes it a brisk and bright tea.
The Lion Logo - Symbol Of Quality
The Ceylon Tea Symbol of Quality, better known as the Lion Logo, is a stamp of approval that certifies tea manufacturers to be meeting the high standards set by the Ceylon Tea Board of Sri Lanka. The Logo is owned by the Sri Lanka Tea Board and globally trademarked. The presence of the Lion Logo of our tea is a guarantee that you are drinking a cup of 100% Pure Ceylon Tea packed in Sri Lanka.
The Sri Lanka Tea Board has a special Tea Tasting unit that is in charge of the Lion Logo. This unit is responsible together with the analytical laboratory for assessing the quality of Ceylon Tea prior to the auction and export. In order for a tea manufacturer to be able to use the Lion logo they should not just meet specific legal requirements but should also pass strict quality tests and standards. The unit’s stamp of approval is essential for any tea, packed or branded in Sri Lanka that carries the Lion Logo.
The 5 regions of Ceylon Tea
Kandy
History repeats that the town Kandy was known to be the Kingdom and the former capital of Sri Lanka. It is above 2000 to 3000 feet from sea level and the Tea estates are rich in cultivation since it has a cool climate. It is recorded that the first tea plant was grown in this area.
Nuwara Eliya
Famed for its light exquisite taste and gentle aroma, Nuwara Eliya teas are grown 6000 feet above sea level which adds the essence of the crispness of the air to its subtle taste. A tea with exceptional characteristics and famously known as the Champagne of Ceylon tea.
Ruhuna
A rich, robust brew of tea that is produced in the southern part of Sri Lanka, grown from sea level to about 2,000 feet. The attractive dark appearance and the strength are versatile characteristics of this special Ruhunu Region tea which transports the discerning tea drinkers to the coastal tea gardens of Sri Lanka
Dimbula
The origin of Dimbula region teas dates back to over a century. One of the most popular Ceylon teas, this is grown at an elevation of around 3,500 to 5,000 feet above sea level producing a full-bodied brew with the distinct flavors which are synonymous with this region.
Uva
Uva teas are from the picturesque tea gardens of Eastern Highlands of Sri Lanka, grown at around 3,000-5,000 feet above sea level. Uva region teas are renowned worldwide by tea connoisseurs for its smooth taste. These teas are best enjoyed during the season from end July to mid-August which produces the finest of ‘Uva Seasonal Teas’.
