Black tea is loved around the world, but what’s the best black tea? The answer lies in the tea’s origins, craftsmanship, and unique flavors. From the smooth floral notes of Keemun to the smoky boldness of Lapsang Souchong, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the finest black teas and what makes them truly exceptional.

Chinese Black Teas: The Best in Tradition and Craftsmanship

China is the birthplace of black tea, known locally as “Hong Cha” (Red Tea). These teas are carefully crafted, highlighting the tea leaves’ natural complexity.

Keemun (Qimen)

• Origin: Qimen County, Anhui Province, China.
• History: Keemun tea was created in the late 19th century and quickly became a favorite in Europe. It’s often used in English Breakfast blends but shines on its own.
• Flavor: Smooth, mellow, with delicate floral notes and a hint of dried fruit and honey. Some say it’s like the “Burgundy wine of teas.”
• Features: The tightly rolled, dark leaves produce a beautiful reddish-brown brew.
• Why It’s the Best: Its refined, balanced flavors make it ideal for drinking plain, allowing you to savor its natural sweetness.

Best Way to Brew: 3-4 minutes with boiling water, no milk.

 

Dian Hong (Yunnan Black Tea)

• Origin: Yunnan Province, the “birthplace of tea” in China.
• History: Dian Hong is a relatively modern tea, developed in the 20th century but rooted in Yunnan’s ancient tea traditions.
• Flavor: Malty, rich, with notes of honey, chocolate, and caramel. The golden tips (young buds) add natural sweetness.
• Features: Look for “Golden Buds” or "Jin Ya", which are a sign of high-quality Dian Hong.
• Why It’s the Best: Its bold yet smooth flavor makes it versatile—perfect for drinking plain or with a splash of milk.

Best Way to Brew: Gongfu style with short steeps to appreciate its depth over multiple infusions.

 

Lapsang Souchong

• Origin: Wuyi Mountains, Fujian Province, China.
• History: Known as the first black tea ever produced, Lapsang Souchong was created during the early Qing Dynasty (1600s). The leaves were smoked over pinewood, both to preserve them and to add flavor.
• Flavor: Smoky, bold, with notes of pinewood, campfire, and subtle sweetness.
• Features: Its unique production process involves drying the tea leaves over open wood fires, giving it a distinct smokiness.
• Why It’s the Best: It’s a bold and adventurous tea, perfect for those looking for something different.

Best Way to Brew: 3 minutes with boiling water. Try it plain or with a dash of milk for balance.

 

Indian Black Teas: Bold and Brisk

India is known for its strong, full-bodied black teas.

Assam

• Origin: Assam Valley, northeastern India, near the Brahmaputra River.
• History: Assam is one of the world’s largest tea-producing regions, famous for its malty, bold teas. It’s often used in breakfast blends.
• Flavor: Rich, malty, brisk, and strong—ideal for milk tea.
• Features

 

Darjeeling

• Origin: The foothills of the Himalayas in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India.
• History: Known as the “Champagne of Teas,” Darjeeling has been prized since the 19th century for its delicate flavor.
• Flavor: Light, floral, and muscatel (grape-like) notes. The flavor varies by season:
  • First Flush (spring): Fresh, green, and floral.
  • Second Flush (summer): Sweet, muscatel, and slightly nutty.
• Features: Darjeeling tea has a lighter body compared to Assam and Chinese teas.

Best For: Tea lovers who prefer delicate, refreshing black teas.

 

Other Global Black Teas

Beyond China and India, black teas from other regions offer unique flavors:

• Ceylon Tea (Sri Lanka): Bright, citrusy, and brisk—perfect for iced tea.
• Kenyan Black Tea: Bold, strong, and rich in color, often used in tea blends.

 

How to Choose the Best Black Tea for You

• Smooth and Refined: Go for Keemun.
• Rich and Malty: Try Dian Hong or Assam.
• Smoky and Bold: Choose Lapsang Souchong.
• Light and Floral: Opt for Darjeeling.
• Refreshing Iced Tea: Look for Ceylon or Kenyan teas.

Each tea tells a story of its origin, and exploring them will help you find the best black tea for your taste.

 

The best black tea depends on your taste, but for a luxurious, bold, and naturally sweet experience, Dian Hong from Yunnan stands out. Handcrafted with care, this tea brings centuries of tradition straight to your cup.

Discover the smooth richness of our Dian Hong black tea—crafted for tea lovers like you. 

Explore, sip, and enjoy the finest black tea.