The Fascinating Ceylon Tea Production Process: From Leaf to Sip

Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, with a history that dates back to thousands of years. Among the many types of tea available, Ceylon tea, produced in Sri Lanka, is one of the most sought after. The production process of Ceylon tea is unique and intricate, which makes it stand out from other teas. In this article, we will take a closer look at the fascinating Ceylon tea production process.

Love at First Pluck

The art of plucking is the first secret to ensuring the excellence of the final product. Skilled hands aided by trained eyes pluck only unopened buds accompanied by two leaves sprouting from the springs of each tea bush. Unlike most tea producing countries, Ceylon tea is still hand-plucked to ensure that only the choicest leaves of the day are collected.

Preparing for the Long Run

The chosen leaves are then brought to the factory and placed on troughs to dry and wither. Air is circulated to decrease their moisture content to optimum levels to enhance their aromatic appeal and flavor. This process is called withering and is similar to the process of wine being deposited in casks to mature until perfection.

Finding the Heart of the Flavor

Once the withering process is complete, the withered leaves enter the rolling stage. They are fed to rolling machines to break their stubborn cell structures of resistance and open their hearts to release the natural essence contained within. This is an essential process that determines the tea’s flavor.

Things are Heating Up

The next stage is fermentation, the process of oxidation. The leaves are exposed to air, which browns them to a perfect tan. After that, they must go through the furnace of fire, pass through a chamber of hot air, and emerge with the mettle of their flavor tried, tested, and proven. This stage is called firing and plays a significant role in setting Ceylon tea apart from other teas.

Let the Ceremony Begin

The tea is still not ready for your cup. The tea is now placed on a vibrating mesh and sorted according to size and grades before being weighed and packed separately to be presented to the world as the pride of Ceylon tea: the enchantment that will fill your cup.

Hand-Picked and Diverse

Unlike most tea-producing countries, Ceylon tea follows the old-fashioned way of handpicking only the choicest leaves of the day. The seven tea regions of Ceylon, with seven soils and seven climes, produce a diversity of flavors, aromas, strengths, and colors, ensuring that there is a perfect brew for everyone.

Ethical and Committed

The Ceylon tea industry is strictly regulated to ensure the protection of the soil, environment, and the wealth and welfare of the people who produce it. The growers are ensured remunerative prices for the tea they produce, while the labor forces receive a comprehensive package that includes free housing and health care. Over a million people are involved in the process that brings the finest Ceylon tea to your cup, which shows their passion and commitment to brewing its continuing success.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the production process of Ceylon tea is not only unique but also fascinating. From the art of plucking to the sorting and grading of the final product, Ceylon tea is a labor of love. Its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices has ensured its position as one of the most sought-after teas in the world. The next time you sip on a cup of Ceylon tea, remember the intricate process that went into creating it.