What Does High Elevation Tea Taste Like?

In today’s ever-growing world of teas, high-elevation tea is a term that excites even the most veteran of tea enthusiasts. These amazing teas are known for their unique flavor profiles and several potential health benefits. Perhaps this is why they are so sought after by tea lovers the world over. But this begs the question! Why is high elevation tea so famous? And what exactly does it taste like? 

Let’s dive into the world of high-elevation tea and explore its unique flavor profile, health benefits, and why exactly it stands out in the market.

The Essence of High Elevation Tea

High-elevation teas are teas that are grown at altitudes of at least 1,000 meters (3,300 feet). Two of the most prominent producer figures of high elevation tea include the likes of Nepal and Darjeeling. This altitude creates a unique environment for tea plants and bushes. The cooler temperatures and thinner air lead to slower growth which allows the leaves to develop rich flavors and aromas that are hard to replicate.

When tea drinkers sip high-elevation tea, they’ll notice a complexity that sets it apart. The flavors are often described as floral, creamy, and slightly sweet. This complexity comes from the unique terroir of high-altitude regions. Much like fine wines, each mountain produces its own distinct flavor profile.

Nepal Tea Collective's Everest Black for example is cultivated at a farm that’s located at an astounding 8,786 feet. The icy breath of the world’s highest mountain; Everest infuses the Everest Black tea with earthy eucalyptus and sweet honey notes, creating a truly vibrant flavor that is highly sought after by tea lovers.

The Journey of High Elevation Tea

The journey of high-elevation tea begins with the environment in which it is grown. In regions like Taiwan, Nepal, and parts of India, tea farmers have moved their plantations higher up the mountains. This decision is based not just on prestige, but also on quality.

As farmers cultivate tea at higher altitudes, they face several challenges such as colder temperatures, harsher environment, and rocky soil. However, these very conditions contribute to the unique characteristics of high-elevation tea. The struggle for survival in these harsh environments results in leaves that are denser and richer in flavor.

Flavor Characteristics

So with that out of the way, what can tea lovers expect when tasting high-elevation tea? Here are some key flavor characteristics:

Floral Notes

Many high mountain teas tend to have delicate floral aromas. These can range from jasmine to osmanthus, creating a fragrant experience that tantalizes the senses. The floral notes often linger on the palate, providing a delightful aftertaste.

Nepal Tea Collective’s White Prakash for example is a smooth, flowery, premium organic bulk white tea which has hints of vanilla, flavors of melting butter, muscatel, and spring blooms.

Similarly, another crisp black tea from Nepal, Kanchanjangha Noir is famous for having notes of caramel, fruit, and flowers. This unique tea has strong aromas of dark chocolate, raisins, and cherries that make it stand  out among its contemporaries.

Creamy Texture 

The mouthfeel of high-elevation tea is often smooth and creamy. This texture enhances the overall drinking experience, making each sip feel luxurious. The creaminess comes from the higher concentration of sugars and nutrients in the leaves.

For example, Silver Yeti is an exceptionally clean and silky silver tips bulk tea made from only the finest tea buds. The absence of tea leaves creates a creamy and buttery brew, with floral aromas and subtle notes of vanilla and sweet hay.

Subtle Sweetness

Unlike lower-elevation teas, which can be more bitter, high-elevation teas tend to have a natural sweetness. This sweetness is a result of the higher concentration of carbohydrates in the leaves which balances out the flavors beautifully, making for an enjoyable and harmonious cup.

Complexity

Each sip reveals layers of flavor. You might taste hints of fruit or vegetal notes alongside the primary floral profile. This complexity makes high-elevation teas exciting to explore. No two cups are ever quite the same!

Health Benefits

Studies like this one from ScienceDirect shows that teas grown at higher altitudes contain higher levels of beneficial compounds like antioxidants, catechins, and amino acids. Furthermore, L-theanine, the amino acid known for its calming properties, is found in higher concentrations in teas grown in high elevations. 

These compounds do not only contribute to the tea’s complex flavor profiles but also offer several potential health benefits to consumers. These antioxidants help combat free radicals in the body, promoting overall health.

Rich in Antioxidants

High-altitude tea bushes receive considerably less oxygen, which makes their photosynthesis process slower but more efficient. This efficiency leads to darker, greener leaves that are rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols and flavonoids. These compounds are beneficial for tea drinker’s health, potentially helping to prevent heart disease and combat aging.

Contains L-Theanine

Many high mountain teas contain considerable concentrations of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. This makes them perfect for those looking to unwind after a long day. This compound is known to enhance focus and mental clarity as well. 

Higher Fluoride Levels

Tea plants at higher elevations generally also contain higher concentrations of fluoride, the same compound found in toothpaste, which is beneficial for dental health. The unique growing conditions at these altitudes contribute to this accumulation, enhancing the overall quality of the tea.

Why Elevation Matters

The impact of elevation on tea quality cannot be overstated. As altitude increases, several factors come into play:

Reduced Oxygen Levels

At higher altitudes, oxygen levels are lower. This forces tea plants to adapt by developing denser leaves with richer flavors. This struggle for survival is what leads to more complex chemical compositions in the leaves.

Stronger UV Radiation

Higher altitudes expose plants to more UV radiation. This increases the production of polyphenols, enhancing their flavor complexity and contributing to health benefits.

Temperature Fluctuations

The temperature changes from day to night in mountainous regions help develop robust flavors in the leaves. These fluctuations allow for better nutrient absorption during daylight hours while also protecting against pests during cooler nights.

Brewing High Elevation Tea

To truly appreciate high-elevation tea, proper brewing techniques are essential. Here’s a simple guide for wholesalers looking to showcase this exquisite product to their clients:

1. Use Fresh Water: Start with filtered or spring water for the best flavor.
2. Temperature Matters: Heat water to about 95-100ºC (203-212ºF). High-quality leaves require hot water to release their full flavor potential. Each tea is different. So make it a point to skim through the instructions on the packaging.
3. Steeping Time: Allow the tea to steep for 90-120 seconds initially. You can adjust this based on personal preference.
4. Experiment with Ratios: Play around with leaf-to-water ratios until you find your perfect brew strength.

Note: Some high altitude teas can be steeped multiple times. Make it a point to check the packaging to see the number of times it can be re-steeped. However, you will need to increase the steeping time by a minute each time.

Also note that over steeping any tea will increase the caffeine concentration, making it taste more bitter. So, we suggest starting off with the advised steeping times before playing around and experimenting. While some like their tea strong, others, especially people new to tea, might not enjoy it as much.   

High-elevation tea is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored. From its floral notes and creamy texture to its impressive health benefits, it stands out as a premium choice for tea lovers everywhere.

As wholesalers, embracing the story behind high-elevation tea can enhance your offerings and attract customers looking for something special. In summary, whether you’re looking for complex flavors or health benefits, high-elevation tea offers an unparalleled experience that is sure to satisfy any discerning palate!