Tea Guide: Your Go‑To Resource for Brands, Brewing & Tasting

If you love tea but feel overwhelmed by the choices, you’re in the right spot. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you solid advice you can use today. From picking the best bagged tea to mastering a proper tasting, we’ve got you covered.

Top Tea Brands You Should Try

First up, the brands. In 2025 the UK market tasted dozens of blends, and a few stood out. Twinings Classic English Breakfast still delivers a reliable, strong cup – great for mornings when you need a boost. For green tea fans, Yogi Green offers a smooth, slightly grassy flavor that isn’t bitter.

If you like a little spice, Yorkshire Tea Chai mixes cinnamon, cardamom, and black tea for a comforting sip. And for those hunting a premium experience, Harney & Sons offers a range of loose‑leaf options like their “Paris” blend, which mixes black tea with subtle floral notes.

When choosing, look for fresh packaging dates and bags that keep out light. A tea that’s been sitting on a shelf for months loses aroma fast, and you’ll notice the difference on the first sip.

How to Brew Tea the Right Way

Great tea starts with good water. Use filtered water at the right temperature – around 200°F (93°C) for black tea, 175°F (80°C) for green tea, and 190°F (88°C) for herbal blends. Boiling water straight from the kettle can scorch delicate leaves and give a bitter taste.

Measure about one teaspoon of loose leaf tea per cup, or follow the bag’s instructions if you’re using bags. Steep times matter: 3‑5 minutes for black tea, 2‑3 minutes for green tea, and 5‑7 minutes for herbal teas. Over‑steeping is a common mistake that turns a balanced cup into astringent mess.

Once brewed, give the tea a quick stir to distribute flavor evenly, then enjoy it plain or with a splash of milk, honey, or lemon – whichever you prefer. If you’re experimenting, try a dash of cinnamon on black tea or a few mint leaves in green tea for a fresh twist.

Tea Tasting: From Hobby to Career

Ever wondered if you could turn your love of tea into a job? You can. Professional tea tasters work for tea houses, brands, and even hotels, assessing flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel. The skill set includes a keen nose, a disciplined palate, and the ability to describe what you taste in clear terms.

Start by training yourself: smell the tea before you brew it, note any floral, nutty, or earthy scents. After brewing, swirl the cup, inhale the steam, and take a small sip. Pay attention to the first impression, the mid‑palate, and the finish. Keep a notebook to track your observations.

Many tea companies offer certification programs – the “Tea Taster” course from the Tea Association is a popular choice. It covers tea history, processing, and sensory evaluation. With a certificate and a portfolio of tasting notes, you can apply for roles like Quality Control Taster or Tea Consultant.

Quick Tips to Up Your Tea Game

1. Store tea in an airtight jar away from light and moisture. 2. Use a timer to avoid over‑steeping. 3. Try a “blind taste” with a friend – each of you sips the same tea without knowing the brand, then guess the flavor notes. 4. Pair tea with food: black tea with chocolate, green tea with sushi, herbal tea with light desserts.

With these basics, you’ll be able to pick the right tea, brew a perfect cup, and even start a tasting career if that’s your vibe. Keep experimenting, trust your senses, and enjoy every sip.