SA Chai HoldingsThe ABCs of Tea
With so many types of tea out there, it helps to start with the basics.
Black Tea
The type most often found in tea bags, black tea is relatively high in caffeine, brews to a dark colour, and delivers a strong, robust flavour. Think Earl Grey, English Breakfast, most Darjeeling teas, and Pu-erh.
Green Tea
Lighter and milder than black tea, with lower caffeine. Green tea brews a pale green or yellow colour with a delicate aroma. Matcha usually gets its own category, but technically falls under green tea.
Herbal Tea
Not tea at all, technically — herbal "teas" are infusions of plants and herbs, covering a wide range of flavours and health benefits. Peppermint, chamomile, yerba mate, and ginger are common examples.
You'll also come across Oolong, purple, and white teas — less common, or newer varietals worth exploring on their own. Read more about several of them on our Orthodox Tea page.