Ceylon Tea (Photo source: The English Tea Store)
Ceylon tea has long been something of an unknown quantity for me, although that’s beginning to change as I’ve had more opportunities to sample it. Previous tastings included a few varieties that were pleasant but not particularly memorable. More recently, however, I tried this review of the English Tea Store’s organic Ceylon tea and found it to be a noticeable improvement.
That brings me to another offering, Lovers Leap, also a Ceylon tea. Ceylon teas are primarily black teas grown in Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon), and this particular variety originates from the Nuwara Eliya district, a high-elevation growing region situated at approximately 4,000 feet above sea level.
Interestingly, I recently came across this feature on tea production in Sri Lanka’s Nuwara Eliya region, which highlights its importance as one of the country’s key tea-growing areas. Sometimes referred to as “Little England,” the region reflects its colonial history as well as its reputation for producing lighter, more delicate teas.
My initial impression after brewing this tea was one of mild disappointment. It is described as a “high-grown, lighter, flowery flavor tea,” and I found it to be quite light—perhaps too light for my usual preferences. Given that I tend to favor stronger black teas, I decided to experiment by increasing the amount of leaf used during brewing.
The adjustment made a significant difference. The resulting infusion was darker and fuller in flavor, bringing it more in line with my tastes. While still lighter than the bold Assam teas I frequently drink—or the robust Yunnan varieties I’ve enjoyed in the past—the improved preparation revealed a more satisfying cup.
Although this tea remains on the delicate side compared to my usual choices, the modified approach produced a brew that I found enjoyable. With that in mind, I expect no difficulty finishing the sample and continuing to explore what Ceylon teas have to offer.
See more of William I. Lengeman’s articles in this archive of tea reviews and articles by the author.
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