Sri Lanka, despite its status as a relatively small country, is considered one of the largest tea giants in the world. It is from this small island that 6.8% of the world's tea production comes, which is equal to about 330 thousand tons.
Ceylon tea is considered the best tea in the world. Where does this name come from? Ceylon is the name of an island in the Indian Ocean. Until 1972, it also referred to the country that is located on it. Only later was it decided to adopt the name Sri Lanka, which in Sanskrit means "dazzling land".
The main source of income in Sri Lanka is agriculture and it is largely focused on tea production. The plantations are scattered across different regions of the island, which differ significantly in geographical location, altitude and climatic conditions. Thanks to this diversity , teas acquire unique flavor profiles.
Join us on a journey through picturesque Sri Lanka, where we will introduce you to the specific features of teas grown in 5 famous regions with plantations of the plant!
Teas from the Leaf of Ceylon collection
Leaf of Ceylon is a series of teas that are the essence of classic flavors and aromas drawn from the Ceylon tradition. Thanks to them, you can taste compositions from the most famous regions of Sri Lanka.
Teas do not have any additives, but this does not prevent us from discovering their diverse bouquets. In fact, it is not the additives, but the significant differences in terrain and climate conditions that determine the flavor profile of the tea.
Kandy - Intensely full-bodied
The Kandy region is famous for teas with a rich, expressive character, emanating a depth of flavour with a hint of spice.
The district is considered the birthplace of Ceylon tea and is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. The plantations there are located at an altitude of 600 to 1,300 meters above sea level, which gives the tea leaf infusion a copper color, and its taste and aroma are characterized by intense spicy and malty accents.
Basilur Kandy is recommended primarily for people who appreciate strong teas. The distinct taste allows the infusion to be combined with milk and various sweeteners.
Dimbula - Refreshingly mellow
Dimbula tea is distinguished by its refined character, offering harmonious balance and subtlety.
Its plantations are located at an altitude of 1,250 to 1,650 meters above sea level and are located in the central part of Sri Lanka. The complex topography of the region creates a variety of microclimates , which include monsoon rains and cool , dry days . These have a significant impact on the tea grown there, which can gain either a fuller and stronger bouquet or delicate notes in which floral accents of jasmine mixed with cypress are noticeable .
This high-mountain tea with a golden-orange infusion and a refreshing taste is perfect for the morning.
Nuwara Eliya - Delicately fragrant
This tea is called the champagne of teas, all thanks to its refreshing, floral notes.
Nuwara Eliya is known as Sri Lanka's "Little England" because of its cool, mountainous climate, which is characterized by low temperatures and moderate rainfall. In this region, tea is grown at an altitude of almost 2,000 meters above sea level, with plantations dotting the slopes of mist-shrouded mountains .
Such climatic conditions give the tea a unique bouquet of flavors. After brewing, the infusion takes on a straw hue, has a subtle flavor with floral accents and gives off a pleasant, refreshing aroma .
Uva - Exotically aromatic
Uva epitomizes a memorable combination of bold yet smooth flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Tea from the Uva region is grown at an altitude of 900 to 1500 meters above sea level. This picturesquely situated district is exposed to the effects of the north-east and south-west monsoons , which have a significant impact on the taste of the tea grown there, giving it exotic accents.
Uva is one of the main tea-producing regions in Sri Lanka. The best leaves are harvested from late July to mid-August. This exceptionally mild copper-coloured infusion with refreshing notes is sure to win the hearts of lovers of traditional, top- shelf Ceylon teas .
Ruhuna - Distinctively unique
An infusion with a delicate character , constituting an excellent combination of a distinctive flavour and malty notes.
Ruhuna is a historical region located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. The area is characterized by a tropical climate, with warm temperatures throughout the year. Although Ruhuna is not known for growing camellia sinensis , it still has other varieties of exceptional tea to offer. The plant is grown in lowland areas at an altitude of no more than 600 meters above sea level. The unique properties of the soil there allow the tea bushes to grow quickly and produce beautiful, long leaves.
Teas from the Ruhuna region are characterized by a very dark infusion color and a strong flavor with a subtle sweetness. Due to their strong bouquet, they combine well with milk and sweeteners .
