Teas

That comes down to personal preference. Tea, depending on the type, also contains caffeine (often referred to as "theine"), but is typically experienced as gentler and longer-lasting. It offers a wide variety of flavours – from strong to delicate, floral to earthy – and holds cultural significance in many parts of the world. Some people enjoy tea for its ritual and the broad choice of blends.

Loose leaf tea usually contains larger pieces of the tea leaf, which can result in a more nuanced flavour. Tea bags tend to use smaller grades or tea dust, which brew quickly and are convenient for everyday use. Loose tea is ideal for those who enjoy a more mindful preparation and flavourful experience.

First Flush refers to the first tea harvest of the year, typically in spring. Darjeeling First Flush is particularly well known and often described as light and fresh in flavour. Much like a young wine, this early harvest is appreciated for its delicacy and seasonal character.

Several factors can indicate the quality of tea:

• Leaf grade (whole leaves vs. broken)
• Origin of the tea
• Processing method (e.g. hand-picked or machine-harvested)
• Appearance and aroma – both dry and infused
• Packaging – ideally airtight and protected from light for better storage

For herbal and fruit infusions, purity, certified organic sourcing, and intensity of flavour are key considerations.

Tea may be labelled as “organic” if it has been produced in line with EU organic regulations or equivalent standards. This includes controlled farming practices without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilisers. The certification logo on the packaging indicates official inspection and approval.

"Cold tea" can mean one of two things:

1. A traditionally brewed tea that has been cooled – such as iced tea.
2. A cold brew – tea infused in cold water for several hours. The latter is often used for specially blended teas that are suited to cold extraction and produce a softer taste.

When stored in a cool, dry, airtight container away from light, tea can remain good for several months to a few years. For best results, check the packaging for any best-before guidance. Over time, flavour and aroma may fade, so it’s generally best enjoyed fresh.

Caffeine is naturally found in black tea, green tea, oolong, white tea and matcha. Herbal and fruit infusions are usually caffeine-free. The actual caffeine content can vary depending on the type of tea and how it’s prepared.