Specialty Tea Types

Premium Quality Ceylon Tea

Specialty tea types represent the premium end of the tea spectrum, defined by their origin, craftsmanship, and processing precision. These teas are typically produced in smaller batches using carefully selected leaves, often from specific regions or seasonal harvests that enhance their unique characteristics.
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Specialty Black Teas

Specialty black teas are high-quality selections produced using refined processing techniques and carefully sourced leaf material. They are typically crafted to highlight origin characteristics, seasonal variations, and leaf quality. They are known for delivering rich liquors with depth, complexity, and strong market appeal in premium segments.

High-grown, Mid-grown, Low-grown Specialty Blacks

These specialty black teas are classified based on elevation, typically consisting of leaves grown in distinct climatic regions. Each elevation level contributes unique flavour characteristics, from light and aromatic to strong and full-bodied. They are valued for offering diverse profiles suited for both single-origin and blended tea products.

Seasonal teas are specialty black teas produced during peak harvesting periods, typically consisting of leaves influenced by specific climatic conditions. These seasons enhance flavour development and leaf quality. They are known for delivering distinctive liquors with heightened aroma, brightness, and regional character.
Hand-rolled and carefully oxidized teas are specialty black teas crafted using traditional techniques, typically consisting of individually processed leaves. These methods allow for greater control over oxidation and leaf structure. They are known for producing refined liquors with complex flavour profiles and premium presentation.

Specialty Green Teas

Green Tea Specialty Grades are classified as high-quality green teas, typically consisting of well-shaped and carefully processed leaves. They are produced using precise techniques to retain natural flavour and colour. They are known for delivering refined liquors with freshness, clarity, and consistent quality.

Gunpowder SP / GP1

Gunpowder SP / GP1 is a green tea grade classified as a specialty rolled tea, typically consisting of tightly coiled pellet-shaped leaves. It is produced through precise rolling and drying processes. It is known for producing a strong liquor with bold flavour, good body, and extended infusion capability.
Young Hyson is a green tea grade classified as a specialty whole leaf tea, typically consisting of young, tender leaves with a slightly twisted appearance. It is produced from early harvest tea shoots. It is known for delivering a fresh liquor with light body, mild strength, and delicate flavour notes.
Chun Mee is a green tea grade classified as a specialty leaf tea, typically consisting of curved and slightly twisted leaves. It is produced using traditional pan-firing techniques. It is characterized by producing a bright liquor with a slightly brisk taste and a clean, lingering finish.
Green Curl is a green tea grade classified as a specialty hand-rolled tea, typically consisting of tightly curled leaves. It is produced through controlled rolling and drying methods. It is known for delivering a smooth liquor with balanced flavour and a distinctive leaf appearance.
Sencha-style is a green tea grade classified as a steamed tea, typically consisting of flat, needle-like leaves. It is produced using steam processing techniques rather than pan-firing. It is characterized by a fresh liquor with grassy notes, light body, and a clean, refreshing finish.

Whole Leaf Specialty Grades

Whole leaf specialty grades represent the finest expressions of orthodox tea manufacturing, defined by larger, well-preserved leaves and careful grading standards. These teas are crafted to maintain the integrity of the leaf, resulting in refined liquors with clarity, smooth texture, and layered flavour profiles. Ranging from long, wiry Orange Pekoe styles to bold, open-leaf varieties and tip-rich selections, this category highlights both visual appeal and cup quality. Whole leaf grades are widely valued in premium tea markets for their elegance, consistency, and ability to deliver a more nuanced and sophisticated tea experience.

OP (Orange Pekoe)

OP (Orange Pekoe) is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a whole leaf tea, typically consisting of long, wiry, and well-twisted leaves. It is produced during the primary stages of orthodox processing. It is known for delivering a light liquor with smooth body, subtle flavour, and refined character.
OP1 (Orange Pekoe 1) is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a superior whole leaf tea, typically consisting of longer and more uniform leaves. It is obtained through careful sorting and grading. It is characterized by producing a refined liquor with improved clarity, smooth texture, and delicate flavour.
OPA (Orange Pekoe A) is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a bold whole leaf tea, typically consisting of large, open, and loosely twisted leaves. It is produced from mature tea leaves during grading. It is known for delivering a mild liquor with smooth body and light strength.
Pekoe / Pekoe 1 is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a small whole leaf tea, typically consisting of short, rolled leaves. It is produced during early processing stages. It is characterized by producing a medium-bodied liquor with balanced flavour, smooth texture, and mellow character.
Flowery Pekoe (FP) is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a whole leaf tea with tips, typically consisting of leaves with visible golden buds. It is produced from carefully selected leaf material. It is known for delivering a light liquor with delicate aroma and refined flavour profile.

Whole Leaf Specialty Grades

Tip-rich and rare grades represent some of the most premium and visually distinctive teas, characterized by the presence of golden buds and carefully selected leaf material. These teas are produced in limited quantities through precise plucking and meticulous grading, resulting in enhanced aroma, brightness, and flavour complexity. From balanced broken leaf grades to refined whole leaf styles with abundant tips, this category is highly sought after in high-value markets. Their combination of rarity, appearance, and superior cup quality makes them ideal for luxury blends and specialty tea offerings.

FBOP (Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe)

FBOP (Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe) is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a broken leaf tea with tips, typically consisting of medium-sized particles with visible buds. It is produced during the grading of high-quality teas. It is known for delivering a balanced liquor with strength, aroma, and good colour.
FBOP1 (Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe 1) is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a superior broken leaf tea with tips, typically consisting of larger and more uniform particles. It is derived through careful sorting. It is characterized by producing a bright liquor with enhanced flavour and aromatic complexity.
GFOP (Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe) is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a premium whole leaf tea with golden tips, typically consisting of high-quality leaves and buds. It is produced from select harvests. It is known for delivering a refined liquor with smooth body, natural sweetness, and rich aroma.
Tippy OP / Tippy BOP is a Ceylon tea grade classified as a tip-rich tea, typically consisting of leaves with a high proportion of golden buds. It is produced from carefully selected tea shoots. It is characterized by producing a bright liquor with enhanced aroma, smooth flavour, and premium appearance.
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