Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva

Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva is a Loose OP1 Black Tea from Uva province, Sri Lanka. When brewed, it has a refreshingly mellow flavour with refined malty notes. The term "OP1" (Orange Pekoe) refers to its grade, which denotes a Tea made from fully unfurled leaves instead of buds. This particular grade is to the taste of many, including many here at The Kent and Sussex Tea and Coffee Company. We hand-pack it fresh to order, ensuring not only quality but also consistency.

Better still, there are health benefits to be had from frequently consuming this Tea. It can combat oxidative stress in the body, which reduces the risks of developing numerous chronic conditions. Indeed, Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva, among other qualities, can improve cardiovascular health by lowering "bad" LDL cholesterol. It can also balance blood sugars in those living with type-2 diabetes. Additionally, studies suggest it can enhance cognitive function and aid digestion.

Sri Lanka and Tea 

Around 5% of the population of Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, works in the country's Tea Industry. Tea-growing land covers an estimated 4% of the island's landmass. Narrow, winding dirt roads connect the workers' housing to the estates and Tea gardens, with bushes normally growing on steep hillsides a metre apart.

Altitude has a significant part to play in the taste and character of most Ceylon Teas, including Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva. Gardens situated at higher elevations tend to produce more delicate-tasting crops, which often sell better at the market. Before it leaves the estate premises, however, it must first undergo processing at the factory.

Withering is the first step. This requires blowing dry air onto the leaves to extract moisture. Next, a specially-designed rolling machine twists the withered leaves, kickstarting the fermentation process. This fermentation develops the distinctive taste of Ceylon Black Tea. The final stage is the grading, which sees workers sift through and separate the Tea by leaf size. This is when Ceylon Tea becomes Ceylon OP1 Tea. Indeed, this is when one gets Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva.

Ceylon Uva Province

Many Teas grown in the remote Uva province are at altitudes between 900 and 1,500 metres (3,000-5,000ft) above sea level. This creates a delicate, mellow flavour - a quality much sought-after by connoisseurs. Its largely inaccessible terrain has led to the local population becoming heavily dependant on the local Tea Industry. In fact, access to the provincial capital, Badulla, is only possible over steep, winding mountain roads.

By choosing Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva, you are also supporting the locals of Uva - the second-least populated province in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, you are choosing exceptional taste and health benefits. What more could you want from your morning cuppa'?

Useful Information 

Type of Tea: Black Tea.

Origin: Uva province, Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon).

Brewing Instructions: Brew using freshly boiled water. Infuse for 3 to 5 minutes.

How to Serve: Milk, sugar, honey or lemon - the choice is yours. Alternatively, serve black.

Tasting Notes: This Tea has a subtly sweet, malty taste with woody undertones.

Colour in Cup: Coppery liquor, dark in tone.

Health Benefits of Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva 

Did you know that frequently drinking Ceylon Orange Pekoe Uva can help you to lose weight? This is because it can boost the metabolism of fat cells. This, in turn, enables the body to burn fat quicker and more efficiently. Ultimately, this leads to more noticeable results from periods of moderate exercise.

However, it's essential to note that this Tea won't do all of the work for you. One must indeed adhere to a healthy and active lifestyle to experience this Black Tea benefit.