About Harrison Teas

As a passionate sole proprietor based in Cardiff, I am dedicated to offering the highest quality teas at reasonable prices. My relentless pursuit involves unearthing hidden gems cherished by tea experts. Although my stock may vary daily, rest assured that I continuously strive to procure the finest teas available. Please don't hesitate to reach out through the contact form on our dedicated page if you have any specific tea requests that are not branded. I will do my utmost to fulfill your requirements.

Many Teas, One Plant

Tea originates from the same plant, the Camellia Sinensis, but undergoes diverse production methods, resulting in various types of tea. Here's a brief overview of well-known tea varieties:

White Teas

White tea is renowned for its delicate nature, as it undergoes minimal processing. The finest white tea is harvested before the leaves fully unfurl, characterized by buds covered in fine white hair (pekoe). Primarily produced in China's Fujian province, white tea demands considerable time for production—up to 2-3 days. Notably, white tea contains antioxidants like catechins and polyphenols, concentrated in the plant's bud, making it one of the healthiest tea options.

Green Tea

Green tea, hailing from China and widespread across many Asian countries, is crafted from leaves and buds that undergo minimal withering and oxidation compared to oolong or black teas. Packed with health benefits, green tea contains a modest amount of caffeine, aiding morning energy. Additionally, it boasts ample antioxidants that support bodily functions and is believed to enhance brain function and offer anti-aging properties for the skin.

Japanese Green Tea

Green tea holds prominence in Japanese tea culture, with a majority of tea consumed in Japan being of the green variety. Beyond its health benefits and mild caffeine content, Japanese green tea delivers an array of flavors and possesses antioxidant properties that aid overall well-being.

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea, a traditional Chinese and Taiwanese tea, is crafted from partially oxidized tea leaves. This semi-oxidized tea undergoes meticulous production processes, withering for several hours and then being shaken to break the cell walls, enhancing flavor. The oxidation can continue for hours until the tea master deems it appropriate, followed by firing and shaping into small, shiny dark green balls.

Pu-erh Tea

Pu-erh tea, originating from Yunnan, China, encompasses fermented varieties traditionally produced in this region. During fermentation, the tea continues to oxidize until desired flavors are achieved, similar to the aging process of wines. Pu-erh tea contains microorganisms with probiotic properties that aid digestion, and it is often associated with weight loss benefits. After steaming, the tea is pressed into various shapes, stored, and aged for several years before being made available for sale. Raw Pu-erh tea is highly sought-after by tea connoisseurs who age it for decades, resulting in increasingly complex flavors.

Black Teas

Black tea, fully oxidized, is produced in numerous African and Asian regions. The Assam region in particular holds the distinction of being the largest tea-growing region in the world. Native tea plants thrive in Assam and southern China, where heavy monsoon rains and high temperatures contribute to the unique malty flavor characteristic of black teas, beloved in Western countries.

African Black Teas (Kenyan)

African black teas exhibit a robust and rich profile akin to Assam teas, making them ideal for breakfast blends. They pair well with milk and can be enjoyed plain, African-style, with a generous spoonful of sugar.

Ceylon Tea

Ceylon tea's flavor profile varies significantly depending on the region within Ceylon where it is grown. Compared to other black teas, Ceylon tea often exhibits floral and brisk notes, offering a fresh taste experience.

Quality

At Harrison Teas, quality is our top priority when selecting new teas. We strive to source the best quality teas available at fair prices, benefiting both consumers and growers. Estate teas in our collection meet the OP (Orange Pekoe) standard or higher, ensuring excellence. For blended teas, we aim for the same high standard whenever possible. By utilizing premium ingredients, we are committed to delivering teas of the utmost quality.

Variety

Harrison Teas prides itself on providing an extensive range of teas, encompassing various regions worldwide. Our goal is to offer teas from tea-growing regions across the globe, ensuring a diverse selection for tea enthusiasts to explore.

Tea Processing

At Harrison Teas, we offer teas produced through two primary methods: Orthodox production and non-orthodox production. Each method results in a distinct final product.

Orthodox

The orthodox method preserves flavor throughout the production process by utilizing the whole tea leaf. Although this method requires more time, it yields full leaves with complex flavors and aromas. Orthodox producers have the flexibility to influence the tea's appearance, aroma, and flavor during production. The British grading system categorizes leaves that break during processing.

Non-Orthodox

The non-orthodox method, also known as the CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) method, was introduced around 1930. This method involves machinery that crushes the leaves to expedite oxidation, followed by tearing them into small pieces and rolling them into uniform grains. The CTC method is prevalent in Kenya, parts of India, and Ceylon but is not as widespread in China.

The British Grading System

The British grading system primarily evaluates the appearance and size of tea leaves. You will find one of the following grading categories assigned to many of our teas.

Whole Leaf 

SFGFOP  Special, Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe (Smallest Whole Leaf) 

FTGFOP  Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe 

TGFOP Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe 

GFOP  Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe 

FOP  Flowery Orange Pekoe

OP  Orange Pekoe 

Broken Leaf 

GFBOP Golden Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe 

GBOP Golden Broken Orange Pekoe 

FBOP Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe 

BOP1 Broken Orange Pekoe 1 

BOP Broken Orange Pekoe 

BPs Broken Pekoe Souchong.