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Guide
How to Choose the Best Tea: Expert Tips & Key Criteria
Written by Monica
Reading time 4 minChoosing the best tea isn’t just about taste, it’s about understanding the leaves, the origin, the caffeine content, and even the format. Whether you’re a seasoned tea lover or just starting out, this guide breaks down all the essential criteria to help you find the perfect brew to match your preferences, lifestyle, and daily rituals.
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What’s the best tea?
When someone asks me, “What’s the best tea?”, I always smile—because honestly, it totally depends on what you’re into. Fancy something light and fresh? Go for a green tea like Sencha or Gunpowder—great for a gentle boost without too much caffeine. If you like a stronger, more comforting brew, you can’t go wrong with a bold black tea like Assam or something a bit more floral like Darjeeling. Oolong teas are a lovely in-between—some are light and fruity, others are darker and toastier, and they’re brilliant for slow, mindful sipping. Not into caffeine? Try Rooibos—it’s naturally caffeine-free with a sweet, earthy vibe—or a herbal infusion like peppermint or chamomile if you’re winding down. And don’t forget about formats! Loose leaf tea is where the magic really happens, but tea bags are super handy, and powdered teas like matcha are amazing if you’re into antioxidants or a good whisking session. At the end of the day, the best tea is the one that makes you feel good—whether it’s a morning ritual, an afternoon pick-me-up, or just something cosy in your mug.
Our Top 10 of the Best Tasting Teas to Enjoy Every Day
Looking for the best tea to match your mood, time of day, or personal taste? From classic black teas to refreshing green blends, fruity infusions, and wellness-focused brews, our curated selection brings together ten exceptional teas that stand out for their flavour, quality, and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned tea lover or just starting your journey, there’s something here to elevate every cup.
Lipton – Sencha Green Tea (25 Pyramid Bags)
Lipton’s Sencha Green Tea (25 pyramid bags) offers a light and refreshing flavour, inspired by traditional Japanese teas. With its delicate vegetal notes and subtle marine freshness, this tea is ideal for a moment of calm and clarity throughout the day. Perfect both hot and iced, it’s a go-to for green tea lovers seeking simplicity and balance.
Dammann Frères – Jardin Bleu Black Tea (24 Cristal® Sachets)
Jardin Bleu by Dammann Frères (24 Cristal® sachets) is a black tea with a gourmet twist. This elegant blend combines the smoothness of black tea with luscious notes of wild strawberry and rhubarb, creating a subtly fruity infusion. A refined, fragrant cup that delights at breakfast or tea time.
Sencha Calida green & oolong tea – 25 pyramid bags – Compagnie Coloniale
Sencha Calida by Compagnie Coloniale is a refined fusion of green tea and oolong, delicately flavoured with fruity and floral notes. Presented in 25 pyramid bags, it offers a smooth, comforting cup that’s perfect for relaxing breaks or elegant tea moments. A unique blend for lovers of subtlety and balance.
Terra Etica – Rooibos Earl Grey (20 Tea Bags)
Terra Etica reinvents a classic with this naturally caffeine-free Rooibos Earl Grey. Infused with the signature bergamot aroma, this herbal tea delivers a warm, citrusy cup with no bitterness. A perfect evening or late-afternoon alternative to black tea lovers wanting a decaf option with character.
Pukka – Organic English Breakfast (20 Tea Bags)
Pukka’s Organic English Breakfast tea is a rich and energising blend of whole leaf black teas, sourced sustainably and crafted for depth and balance. A classic cup with bold flavour and a smooth finish — the perfect morning ritual for lovers of strong, ethical brews.
Dammann Frères – Bali Green Tea (100g Loose Leaf)
Bali Green Tea from Dammann Frères (100g loose leaf) is a delicate and exotic blend of green tea with lychee, grapefruit, rose, and jasmine. Fresh, fragrant and perfectly balanced, it’s an elegant choice for refined palates and lovers of floral teas.
Compagnie Coloniale – Ceylon Vanilla Black Tea (100g Loose Leaf)
This Ceylon Vanilla tea by Compagnie Coloniale (100g loose leaf) combines robust Ceylon black tea with a soft, comforting natural vanilla aroma. A deliciously smooth and slightly sweet infusion, ideal for cosy moments or pairing with desserts.
Dammann Frères – Pu-Erh Tea with Citrus (100g Loose Leaf)
This Pu-Erh tea with citrus by Dammann Frères (100g) is a bold and earthy infusion balanced by lively orange and lemon peel notes. A digestive-friendly brew with a twist, perfect for after meals or for those who enjoy complex, matured teas with depth.
Compagnie Coloniale – Lemon Mate (100g Loose Leaf)
Lemon Mate from Compagnie Coloniale (100g) is a vibrant infusion blending South American mate with refreshing lemon zest. Naturally energising, this tea is ideal as a morning boost or a lively afternoon pick-me-up, offering a tangy, stimulating experience.
Aromandise – Organic Matcha Powder (50g)
This Organic Matcha from Aromandise (50g) is a high-quality Japanese green tea powder, rich in antioxidants and boasting a vibrant, grassy flavour. Perfect for traditional matcha preparation, lattes, or culinary use. A must-have for wellness seekers and tea enthusiasts alike.
What are the key criteria for choosing the best tea to drink?
The quality of the tea leaves
When looking for the best tea, start by examining the quality of the leaves. Whole, unbroken leaves are often a sign of freshness and aromatic richness. In contrast, dusty or broken teas tend to have lost much of their flavour and complexity. For a truly satisfying cup, always choose high-grade loose leaf tea over lower-quality alternatives.
The origin and traceability
The origin of the tea plays a major role in its quality. The best teas often come from renowned regions like Darjeeling, Zhejiang (for Long Jing), or Uji in Japan. These areas are known for their expertise, unique climates, and traditional cultivation methods.
Also, consider traceability and whether the tea is produced using organic or sustainable farming practices, both are strong indicators of a premium tea.
The type of tea
Choosing the best tea also depends on the type of tea that suits your taste and needs. Whether it’s a green tea for its freshness and antioxidants, a black tea for its bold, malty flavour, a white tea for its delicacy, or an oolong for its complexity, each variety brings a unique experience.
The best tea is the one that aligns with your preferences, time of day, and even your mood.
The flavour profile
A key part of identifying the best tea is the flavour profile. Some teas offer vegetal, floral or nutty notes, while others are smoky, spicy or fruity. Whether you enjoy subtle or intense flavours, the best tea will provide a balanced and well-rounded taste, ideally with a lingering finish.
Don’t hesitate to explore different profiles to discover your personal favourite.
Caffeine content
The caffeine level is an important factor when choosing the best tea for your lifestyle. If you’re looking for an energy boost, opt for high-caffeine teas like black tea or matcha. For something more balanced, oolong or green tea offer a moderate caffeine content.
If you prefer to avoid caffeine altogether, especially in the evening, go for caffeine-free options such as rooibos or herbal infusions.
Tea format and convenience
The format of your tea can impact both its quality and ease of use. Loose leaf tea is often considered the best quality, offering superior flavour and aroma. Tea bags are more convenient for everyday use and quick brewing. For something traditional and rich in antioxidants, try powdered teas like matcha. The best tea is the one that fits seamlessly into your daily routine.
Whether you prefer a strong morning black tea, a calming green tea, or a soothing herbal infusion, the world of tea is as rich as it is varied. By understanding your flavour preferences, caffeine needs, and ideal format, you’re already one step closer to finding the best tea for your daily rituals. So go ahead, explore, sip, and savour. The best tea is the one that fits your moment perfectly.
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