From the lush, emerald highlands of Sri Lanka - formerly known as Ceylon - comes one of the world's most beloved and widely enjoyed teas. Ceylon Orange Pekoe is a classic black tea prized for its bright, brisk character, rich amber colour, and clean, refreshing finish. It's the tea that built a nation's identity and continues to delight millions of cups every day.
From Ceylon to Sri Lanka: A Tea Legacy
Sri Lanka's tea story began in 1867 when Scottish planter James Taylor established the island's first commercial tea plantation in the Kandy region. After a devastating coffee blight wiped out the island's coffee crops, tea quickly took hold, and Ceylon became one of the world's premier tea-producing nations almost overnight. Today, Sri Lanka is the fourth-largest tea producer globally, and Ceylon tea remains a benchmark of quality.
What Does "Orange Pekoe" Mean?
Despite what the name might suggest, Orange Pekoe has nothing to do with oranges or orange flavour. It's a grading term referring to the size and quality of the tea leaves. "Pekoe" comes from the Chinese word for the fine white hairs found on young tea buds, and "Orange" is believed to reference the Dutch House of Orange - a nod to the tea's early European trade history. Orange Pekoe denotes a high-quality whole-leaf tea, harvested from the top two leaves and bud of the plant.
The Regions That Shape the Cup
Ceylon tea's flavour varies dramatically depending on where it's grown:
- Nuwara Eliya (High Grown): The highest elevation region produces the most delicate, floral Ceylon teas with a light, crisp character
- Dimbula & Uva (Mid-High Grown): Bold, brisk teas with a bright liquor — the classic Ceylon profile
- Kandy (Mid Grown): Full-bodied and rich, ideal for blending and milk teas
- Ruhuna (Low Grown): Dark, strong, and malty — perfect for those who love a robust brew
Brewing the Perfect Cup
- Water temperature: 95–100°C (freshly boiled)
- Steeping time: 3–5 minutes
- Serving suggestions: Enjoy black to appreciate its brightness, or with a splash of milk for a classic, comforting brew
Our NO. 20 Ceylon Orange Pekoe is medium-bodied, copper infusion with a bright, brisk character and a woody aroma.
