British tea drinkers prefer bold and strong black teas that complement milk and sugar. Here are the most popular types of black tea in the UK:
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Assam:
- Origin: Assam, India
- Flavor: Strong, malty, and brisk, making it ideal for the British palate. It forms the backbone of many popular blends.
- Popular Use: Commonly enjoyed as part of breakfast blends like English Breakfast tea, paired with milk and sugar for a rich, satisfying drink.
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Ceylon:
- Origin: Sri Lanka
- Flavor: Bright, citrusy, and brisk, Ceylon tea is versatile and adds a refreshing quality to blends.
- Popular Use: Enjoyed both as a straight black tea and in blends, it's often brewed for iced tea in the summer or as a hot drink with lemon.
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Darjeeling:
- Origin: Darjeeling, India
- Flavor: Light, floral, and muscatel, it’s considered the "Champagne of Teas."
- Popular Use: Drunk without milk to enjoy its delicate and nuanced flavor, making it a favorite for afternoon tea gatherings.
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Earl Grey:
- Origin: A blend, often based on Assam or Ceylon tea, flavored with bergamot oil.
- Flavor: Light and fragrant with citrusy bergamot notes.
- Popular Use: A quintessential British tea blend, often served with a slice of lemon or a dash of milk, and enjoyed in the afternoon.
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English Breakfast Tea:
- Origin: A blend of Assam, Ceylon, and sometimes Kenyan teas.
- Flavor: Robust, malty, and full-bodied.
- Popular Use: The classic British morning tea, almost always served with milk and sugar for a comforting, strong brew.