Guide to Different Types of Dark Tea - Pu-erh, Black, Oolong, Lapsang

A Guide to the Different Types of Dark Tea

Dark tea refers to a category of tea that undergoes full fermentation during processing. This results in rich, bold flavored tea leaves with potential health benefits.

There are several different types of dark tea to discover, each with their own distinctive character, taste, and aroma. In this guide, we will explore some of the most popular varieties.

What is Dark Tea?

All true tea comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. The different tea types are determined by how the leaves are processed after harvest.

Dark tea undergoes full fermentation, where the tea leaves completely oxidize. This process turns the leaves dark brown or black and develops the signature bold, malty flavors.

Some of the benefits associated with drinking dark tea include improved digestion, lower cholesterol, and stable blood sugar levels. The antioxidants in the tea may also reduce disease risk.

Let's look closer at some of the most common varieties of dark tea.

Pu-erh Tea

Pu-erh is a famously dark tea from the Yunnan province of China. It is distinguished by its very earthy, woodsy taste.

The leaves for Pu-erh tea undergo a microbial fermentation process using special fungi, which turns them dark brown-black. This also mellows the flavor over time.

Pu-erh is available as loose leaf tea or in pressed brick, cake, and nest shapes. It can be drunk plain or with added herbs, spices, or fruits.

Some evidence suggests Pu-erh tea may aid weight loss, lower LDL cholesterol, and reduce plaque in arteries due to its antioxidants.

Black Tea

Black tea is one of the world's most popular varieties of dark tea. It originates from China but is now grown in India, Sri Lanka, Kenya and other countries.

The tea leaves are completely oxidized until very dark. Popular varieties include Assam, Ceylon, and Darjeeling. The flavor can range from hearty and robust to floral and fruity.

Health benefits linked to black tea include improved gut health, cardiovascular health, and blood sugar regulation. The antioxidant content may also reduce certain cancers.

Dark Oolong Tea

Oolong tea is partially oxidized, but can sometimes be processed into a dark oolong with full oxidation. This gives it rich, bold tasting notes.

Dark oolong often has an earthy, woodsy flavor, similar to Pu-erh tea. But it tends to maintain some of the floral, fruity character of lighter oolongs as well.

Hailing from China and Taiwan, dark oolong tea may boost fat burning, protect brain health, strengthen bones, and stabilize blood sugar based on its unique antioxidants.

Lapsang Souchong

Lapsang Souchong is originally from the Fujian province of China. It has an intensely smoky flavor acquired by drying the tea leaves over burning pine.

The large black tea leaves brew an extremely bold, tarry tea that some compare to the taste of lapsang smoked bacon. It is an acquired taste but makes a memorable drinking experience.

Some studies suggest Lapsang Souchong tea may have antioxidant and anti-cancer benefits. But more research is still needed on its potential effects.

Liu Bao Tea

Liu Bao is a famous dark tea from China's Guangxi region. The large tea leaves are completely fermented into tiny twisted balls.

The flavor of Liu Bao is rich, earthy, and very smooth. It is often described as having hints of fruit, chocolate, or coffee. The tea leaves can be rebrewed many times.

Liu Bao tea contains polyphenols that may protect against heart disease, fight inflammation, and regulate blood sugar. One animal study also showed it may inhibit tumor growth.

Golden Monkey Tea

Golden monkey is a black tea that originates from the Fujian province of China. It gets its name from the golden tips that appear on the dried tea leaves.

The brewed tea has a balanced, malty flavor with sweet notes of honey, fruit, and smoke. The bold taste stands up well to milk and sugar or can be enjoyed plain.

The antioxidants in golden monkey tea may reduce cholesterol, improve digestion, and stabilize blood glucose levels, although more research is still needed.

Keemun Tea

Keemun is a popular Chinese black tea prized for its mix of floral aroma and robust flavor. It has a fragrant fruity smell and smooth, rich taste.

There are many grades of Keemun, but the best is produced in early spring using the meticulous process of traditional tea makers. Lower quality versions can taste very bitter.

Some studies have found Keemun tea contains antioxidants that may lower LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure. It is also considered a digestive aid.

Licorice Root Tea

Unlike other dark teas, licorice root tea is an herbal tea. The roots and rhizomes of the licorice plant are boiled to produce a naturally sweet, anise-flavored tea.

Licorice root tea has been used traditionally to soothe sore throats, coughs, and stomach inflammation. Modern research suggests it may offer antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-cancer, and cardioprotective effects.

However, licorice root tea should be avoided by those with high blood pressure or heart conditions due to its potential side effects.

Health Benefits of Drinking Dark Tea

The unique processing methods of dark tea alter its antioxidant profile, which is tied to many of its possible health benefits.

Here is an overview of some of the research-backed ways various dark teas may support health:

Supports Heart Health

Studies show black, Pu-erh, Liu Bao, and other dark teas can improve blood pressure, cholesterol markers, and blood vessel function. This may protect against heart disease long-term.

Stabilizes Blood Sugar

Animal studies reveal certain dark teas like Pu-erh and Liu Bao may inhibit alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme involved in sugar metabolism. This could reduce blood sugar spikes after meals.

Aids Digestion

The catechins and tannins in black and Pu-erh tea are natural digestive aids. Research indicates they may relieve constipation and reduce stomach pain, nausea, and acid reflux symptoms.

Supports Weight Loss

Due to influences on blood sugar and fat breakdown, some research suggests drinking Pu-erh and other dark teas may mildly support weight loss, especially around the abdomen.

Fights Inflammation

The antioxidant and antimicrobial actions of compounds in black, dark oolong, and Pu-erh tea may help suppress inflammation. This could reduce risk for certain chronic diseases over time.

Lowers Cancer Risk

Early studies reveal the antioxidants in certain dark teas like Lapsang Souchong and Pu-erh may inhibit cancer cell growth and tumor formation. But more research is still needed.

Brewing the Perfect Cup of Dark Tea

Brewing dark tea requires paying close attention to factors like water temperature, steeping time, and tea to water ratios. Here are some tips for best results:

Use Fresh, Cold Filtered Water

The minerals in hard water can negatively impact dark tea's taste. Fresh, pure water is ideal. Spring water or cold filtered water work best.

Select the Right Temperature

The ideal water temperature depends on the specific tea. More delicate black teas brew well with water at 195F (90C). Robust Pu-erh and aged teas can handle boiling 212F (100C) water.

Use a Tea to Water Ratio

The standard ratio is 1 teaspoon of loose leaf tea per 8 ounces (240ml) of water. Adjust to taste, using more tea for stronger flavor. For compressed Pu-erh, break off a piece about the size of a coin.

Steep for 3-5 Minutes

Steeping times impact flavor. Black teas are often best at 3-4 minutes, while Pu-erh and other dark teas can steep up to 5 minutes for bolder taste.

Try Multiple Infusions

High quality dark teas can often be brewed for several infusions using the same leaves. Just add more hot water and adjust steeping time.

Don't Use Tea Bags

To experience dark tea's nuanced flavors, avoid tea bags. Use loose leaf tea in an infuser or strainer instead to allow leaves to fully expand.

Choosing a High Quality Dark Tea

With so many varieties and grades of dark tea, selecting a high quality product comes down to a few key factors:

Check Country/Region of Origin

Research where reputable producers of each tea type are located. For example, Yunnan province for Pu-erh, India for Assam black tea, Fujian for dark oolong, etc.

Read About Processing Method

Higher quality dark teas will describe steps like hand-picking, proper withering and oxidation, and drying techniques used.

Seek Out Single-Origin Teas

Unlike blends, single-origin dark teas allow you to taste flavors unique to a particular plantation, harvest, and processing.

Choose Whole Loose Leaf

Loose leaf shows teas' whole leaves. Broken leaves, fannings, and dust are lower grades. Tea bags often contain tea dust.

Check Harvest Date

Fresher dark teas made of spring or early summer harvest leaves have a more balanced, smooth flavor. Avoid any teas sold without harvest dates.

Seeking out specialty imported dark teas from reputable sellers can ensure a high quality drinking experience. The flavor, aroma, and health benefits depend heavily on how the tea was grown and processed.

The Allure of Dark Tea's Bold Flavors

Dark teas like Pu-erh, black tea, Lapsang Souchong, and Liu Bao offer tea drinkers bold new flavors and experiences different from delicate green, white, and oolong teas.

Sipped plain or mixed with spices, herbs, or even whiskey, dark teas can make an invigorating daily drink. The potential health benefits are an added bonus.

Dark teas do contain caffeine, so they are best enjoyed in moderation. But sampling different varieties can give you an appreciation for the transformative power of fermentation on tea leaves.

Allowing the fresh green tea flavor to develop into rich, intense malty notes helps bring out nuances in aroma, taste, mouthfeel, and color for a unique sensory experience.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.