Certainly, we've all heard the term "fruit tea" – but do you know what this term truly means? Currently, it is used interchangeably to refer to teas enriched with fruit, as well as compositions created mainly from dried and candied fruits. What distinguishes these two types of beverages?

Delving into the world full of complex and rich flavors of Ceylon teas, you will quickly discover that not all infusions are created equal. The Basilur brand boasts a wide and diverse collection of teas, where you will find both traditional, rich essences, and those lighter, full of fruity-citrus flavors and aromas. Here's what sets them apart.

What exactly is "tea"?

True tea comes from the leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis bush. It is from this extraordinary plant that all types of tea are produced. Although they come from one plant, each variety stands out with diverse bouquets of flavors, aromas, and scents – all thanks to different methods of utilizing and processing the leaves of Camellia sinensis.

·         Black tea is oxidized to achieve a distinctive, spicy-malty flavor.

·         Green tea undergoes several stages. After harvesting, the leaves are left to wither. Then, through steaming or heating, their oxidation process is stopped, giving the infusion a straw-like color and a fresh, vegetal aftertaste.

·         White tea / Silver Tips is characterized by minimal processing, which involves only wilting and drying the leaves. The negligible intervention contributes to the subtle character of the tea.

·         Oolong tea, thanks to partial fermentation, is positioned between the bouquet of black and green tea. Its taste is smooth with a distinctly noticeable combination of floral and fruity notes.

The aforementioned types of tea are rich in antioxidants, which are beneficial for our health and natural caffeine. However, it should be remembered that caffeine levels vary depending on the tea variety.

Is fruit tea actually made from tea leaves?

In this case, the term can be misleading. Fruit tea – also known as fruit infusion – is not made from tea leaves at all. Its base consists primarily of dried and candied fruits, which are mixed with flowers, herbs, and spices.

Imagine hibiscus petals, dried berries, citrus peels, rosebuds, or lemongrass. Such combinations of ingredients create a true explosion of natural flavors and aromas.

The absence of tea leaves is equivalent to the absence of caffeine, which means that fruit infusions can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Unlike traditional tea, fruit infusions are typically:

·         Distinctive in flavor

·         Naturally sweet or tart

·         Versatile (perfect for drinking hot or with ice cubes, often used in cocktails and desserts)

Flavor Profiles of Teas and Fruit Infusions: Subtlety vs. Intensity

·         Tea is characterized by a deep, complex bouquet, dominated by earthy, grassy, floral notes, and malty accents.

·         Fruit infusions are more intense. We can distinguish fruity sweetness, refreshing citrus notes, and a slightly spicy accent of spices.

Both types of beverages offer exquisite sensory journeys, albeit in completely different directions.

When to reach for tea and when for a fruit infusion?

Why stock your kitchen with both traditional and fruit tea?

Teas and fruit infusions provide different taste experiences, but both varieties of beverage are an indispensable part of a versatile, sophisticated tea ritual. It's always worth being prepared for spontaneous cravings and various circumstances – that's why we encourage you to stock up on both types of beverages.

At Basilur, we offer our customers a wide range of blends that celebrate the best of both worlds. In our store, you will find both classic compositions of Ceylon teas and fruit infusions full of light, refreshing notes.

Click the link below to discover an assortment filled with the richness of flavors and aromas of teas harvested and blended in Sri Lanka:

https://basilur.pl/collections