Sri Lanka, historically known as Ceylon, is one of the world's most celebrated tea-producing countries. Although the island is relatively small, its varied elevations, rainfall patterns, temperatures, and growing conditions create distinctive differences in the character of its teas.
This collection brings together seven teas from Sri Lanka's recognised tea-growing regions: Kandy, Uva, Ruhuna, Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Sabaragamuwa, and Uda Pussellawa.
Each tea is labelled B.O.P., meaning Broken Orange Pekoe. This refers to a grade of tea made from smaller, broken leaf particles, which generally infuse more quickly than whole-leaf teas, producing a brisk, flavourful cup with good colour and body.
Together, these seven teas offer an opportunity to explore how geography influences flavour, from high-altitude gardens in the central mountains to the warmer, lower-elevation plantations of the south.
The Seven Teas
Kandy
Grown in the central highlands at relatively moderate elevations, Kandy teas are known for their full-bodied character, coppery colour, and rich, rounded flavour. They make satisfying everyday black teas.
Uva
Produced in the eastern highlands, Uva tea is particularly associated with seasonal winds that influence the leaves' flavour. It can offer a distinctive, lively character with fragrant, sometimes minty or subtly wintergreen notes.
Ruhuna
Located in the warmer southern lowlands, Ruhuna produces dark, robust teas with rich colour, strong body, and malty or earthy characteristics. These teas are often well suited to drinking with milk.
Nuwara Eliya
Situated among Sri Lanka's highest tea-growing areas, Nuwara Eliya produces some of the island's most delicate and fragrant teas. Expect a lighter character, with floral aromas and a bright, refreshing finish.
Dimbula
One of Sri Lanka's classic high-grown tea regions, Dimbula is known for bright, brisk teas with lively flavour and a clean, refreshing finish. Seasonal conditions can bring delicate floral or eucalyptus-like notes.
Sabaragamuwa
This region's warmer, humid conditions favour teas with a deep colour, smooth body, and rich, rounded flavour. Depending on the tea, notes of malt, caramel, and dried fruit may be present.
Uda Pussellawa
Situated in the central highlands near Uva and Nuwara Eliya, Uda Pussellawa produces fragrant teas with a bright character and reddish-copper liquor. Some teas display floral notes and a gentle, lively briskness.
