From Colonial Roots to a Global Legacy
Sri Lanka—once known as Ceylon—is home to some of the world’s finest teas, renowned for their rich flavour, bold aroma, and unmatched quality. But this global reputation has humble, fascinating beginnings rooted in resilience and transformation.
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A Journey from Coffee to Tea
In the 19th century, Ceylon was famed not for tea, but for its vast coffee plantations. That changed when a devastating plant disease known as coffee rust destroyed the island’s coffee industry. In search of alternatives, planters turned to tea—and history was made.
The first tea plant was introduced to Ceylon in 1824, brought from China and planted at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. But it was in 1867 that James Taylor, a Scottish planter, established the island’s first commercial tea plantation on the Loolecondera Estate in Kandy. Widely regarded as the father of Ceylon tea, Taylor revolutionised cultivation, processing, and global export of Sri Lankan tea.
Growth & Global Recognition
By 1873, the first shipment of Ceylon tea made its way to England. As the coffee industry collapsed, tea plantations expanded rapidly across the lush regions of Nuwara Eliya, Hatton, and Kandy. By the early 20th century, Ceylon tea had become a global phenomenon—coveted for its distinctive flavour, exceptional quality, and fragrant aroma.
Today, Sri Lanka ranks as the fourth-largest tea producer in the world, with Ceylon black tea featured in blends such as English Breakfast and Earl Grey, as well as enjoyed in its pure form—both hot and iced.
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The Climate Behind the Cup
Sri Lanka’s central highlands offer the perfect conditions for growing high-quality tea. The cool air, rich soil, and tropical rainfall all contribute to a terroir that gives Ceylon tea its briskness, strength, and layered taste profile.
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Handmade Tea – A Timeless Craft
While much of today’s production uses modern machinery, Sri Lankan handmade tea remains a treasured specialty. This artisanal process involves hand-rolling, careful oxidation, and meticulous attention to detail—preserving the integrity of whole leaves and delicate buds. Handmade black, green, and white teas are sought after by tea connoisseurs for their purity, complex aroma, and refined character.
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Natural Wellness in Every Cup
Beyond its taste, Sri Lankan black tea offers numerous health benefits. Naturally rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, it supports heart health, improves circulation, and provides a gentle energy boost—thanks to its moderate caffeine content. It’s a delicious and healthy alternative to more intense caffeinated drinks, offering calm focus without the crash.
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