Sip the World: 25 Types of Tea Every Tea Lover Should Know

Tea is more than just a drink; it’s a journey through cultures and traditions. From the misty mountains of China to the bustling markets of India, each tea tells a story. Let’s explore 25 types of tea from around the world that will take your taste buds on an international adventure.

Masala Chai (India)

A spiced milk tea, Masala Chai blends black tea with a mix of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. This aromatic tea is a comforting, warm hug in a cup, perfect for any time of the day.

Matcha (Japan)

Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder with a vibrant green color. Traditionally whisked with water, it offers a creamy, umami-rich experience. The preparation is a meditative ritual in itself, and the flavor is earthy with a sweet finish.

Pu-erh Tea (China)

A fermented tea with a deep, rich flavor, Pu-erh is known for its earthy taste and benefits. Aged like fine wine, it’s a tea that gets better with time, offering a smooth, mellow experience.

Rooibos (South Africa)

Also known as red bush tea, Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free and has a sweet, nutty flavor with hints of vanilla. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and is often used as a base for herbal infusions.

Yerba Mate (South America)

A traditional South American drink, Yerba Mate is made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It has a grassy, herbal flavor and is packed with caffeine, making it a favorite for energy and focus.

Earl Grey (England)

A classic black tea flavored with bergamot oil, Earl Grey offers a distinctive citrusy aroma. It’s a sophisticated tea that’s equally delightful on its own or with a splash of milk.

Genmaicha (Japan)

This unique Japanese tea blends green tea with roasted brown rice. The result is a toasty, nutty flavor with a hint of sweetness, making it a perfect companion for savory snacks.

Moroccan Mint Tea (Morocco)

A refreshing blend of green tea and spearmint, Moroccan Mint is traditionally served with sugar in small glasses. It’s a cooling, sweet tea that’s as much about the ritual of serving as it is about the taste.

Lapsang Souchong (China)

This Chinese black tea is known for its distinctive smoky flavor, achieved by drying the leaves over pinewood fires. It’s a bold, intense tea that’s an acquired taste for those who enjoy a savory sip. This tea can also be used as a replacement for liquid smoke.

Butter Tea (Tibet)

Butter Tea, or Po Cha, is a staple in Tibetan culture. Made with black tea, yak butter, and salt, it’s a rich, savory drink that provides warmth and sustenance in the cold Himalayan climate.

Oolong (Taiwan)

Oolong tea is partially fermented, giving it a flavor profile between green and black tea. Depending on the processing method, the taste can range from light and floral to dark and roasted.

Kukicha (Japan)

Also known as twig tea, Kukicha is made from the stems, stalks, and twigs of the tea plant. It has a light, nutty flavor with low caffeine content, making it a soothing tea for evening sips.

Ceylon Tea (Sri Lanka)

Grown in the highlands of Sri Lanka, Ceylon tea is known for its bright, bold flavor with hints of citrus. It’s a versatile tea that can be enjoyed black, with milk, or as an iced tea.

Kashmiri Noon Chai (India)

Kashmiri Noon Chai, also known as “Kashmiri Pink Tea,” is a traditional tea from the Kashmir region. This unique tea is made with green tea leaves, milk, and a blend of spices such as cardamom and cloves. Its distinctive pink color is achieved through a special brewing process that involves adding baking soda. Often garnished with crushed almonds and pistachios, Kashmiri Noon Chai offers a rich, creamy flavor with a subtle spiciness, making it a comforting and aromatic choice.

Darjeeling Tea (India)

Often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas,” Darjeeling tea is grown in the foothills of the Himalayas. Its light, floral flavor with musky notes makes it a sophisticated choice for tea connoisseurs.

Chaga Tea (Russia)

Chaga tea is made from a mushroom that grows on birch trees in Siberia and northern climates. It has an earthy, slightly bitter taste and is valued for its potential benefits.

Assam Tea (India)

Known for its bold, malty flavor, Assam tea is a robust black tea often used in breakfast blends like English Breakfast. It’s strong enough to withstand milk and sugar, making it a preferred tea to make masala chai.

Jasmine Tea (China)

Jasmine tea is a fragrant green or white tea scented with jasmine blossoms. It is delicate and aromatic and has a sweet, floral, calming, uplifting flavor.

Sencha (Japan)

Sencha is the most popular tea in Japan, known for its grassy, slightly sweet flavor. It’s a green tea that’s steamed to preserve its vibrant color and fresh taste.

Thai Iced Tea (Thailand)

A sweet and creamy iced tea, Thai Iced Tea is made with black tea, sugar, and condensed milk. It’s often served over ice with a splash of evaporated milk for a decadent treat.

Yerba Buena (Mexico)

Yerba Buena is a traditional Mexican herbal tea made from mint leaves. It’s refreshing and soothing, often enjoyed after meals.

Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (Thailand)

Made from the blue petals of the butterfly pea flower, this tea changes color when the acidity changes. It has a mild, earthy taste and is often mixed with lemon or honey for a stunning visual effect.

Chamomile Tea (Egypt)

Known for its calming properties, Chamomile tea is made from dried chamomile flowers. It has a mild, floral flavor and is often enjoyed before bed.

Jujube Tea (Korea)

Jujube Tea, or “Daechu Tea,” is a traditional Korean tea made from dried jujube fruits. Known for its sweet, fruity flavor and natural caramel notes, this tea is often enjoyed for its soothing properties.

Russian Caravan Tea (Russia)

A smoky blend of Chinese black teas, Russian Caravan tea is named after the camel caravans that transported tea from China to Russia. It has a robust, smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness.

Types of Coffee

While tea offers a diverse range of flavors and traditions, coffee is another beverage with its own rich global tapestry. Here is a guide to 20 different types of coffee from around the world. From the bold and robust espresso to the smooth and creamy cappuccino, there’s a whole world of coffee to discover that complements your tea journey.