Dark Tea

1. What is Dark Tea?

Dark tea is a variation of fermented tea that is made from leaves that have been oxidized for a longer time. The leaves are darker in color once processed. Compared to regular black tea, it is less bitter and can have a vegetal or grassy flavor. It has a higher caffeine content than other teas.

Mostly Dark tea is produced in Hunan, which is called "Hunan Dark Tea"

2. What is the benefit of Dark tea?

Dark tea has a variety of benefits. It can be used as a weight-loss tool, to improve the overall immunity of an individual, detoxify the body and keep it free from diseases, etc.

3. How to make Dark Tea?

To make Dark tea, you need to prepare a kettle and stove to boil the tea soup. It's better to use Cast Iron Kettle.

Brewing Instructions:

Step 1. Use around 5 grams of tea leaves. (You can always add more if you want it stronger).

Step 2. Pour fresh water into the kettle and bring water to a boil between 175-185 degrees F (80-85 degrees C). Direct boiling is not recommended.

Step 3. Add Dark tea leaves into the water. Shake the kettle a little to loosen leaves from the bottom of the kettle.

Step 4. Keep boiling for about 3~5 minutes.

Step 5. Pour tea soup into a strainer or Gong Dao Bei, then serve with several small cups.

4. How much caffeine content is in Dark Tea?

Dark tea has a higher caffeine content compared to other teas. About 70% of caffeine is removed during the process of making tea. Dark tea contains about 35-45% of the caffeine in 1 cup, while it can contain up to 90% in a regular strong brewed coffee.

5. How to store Dark Tea?

Dark tea should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can be stored for up to 18 months. Storing it in the fridge or freezer is not recommended as this will damage the tea leaves.

6. What are the side effects of Dark Tea?

Like all other caffeinated beverages, dark tea can make you feel jittery if taken in large amounts. It is also not suitable for pregnant women and children. Long-term use of caffeine can cause insomnia and frequent urination.

7. What are similar types of teas that we should try?

We recommend trying Lapsang Souchong black tea or Pine Needle Tea. Both are produced using similar methods as that of Dark tea.