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Fortnum & Mason
Britain’s Most Luxurious Brew

Tea is undergoing something of a renaissance, with artisan tea boutiques, brands and even tea sommeliers rising in popularity and elevating the humble British cuppa to become the newest drink trend to watch. While tea is an integral part of British culture – the UK consumes 165 million cups each day – the majority is drunk with milk and made with low-grade leaves. So, like coffee, gin and craft beers, luxury tea is now the drink du jour.

Tea has long been a marker of social standing and, as one of Britain’s original tea merchants, it is not surprising that Fortnum & Mason’s own story and the history of tea in Britain are closely entwined. Back in 1707 when the emporium was founded, Fortnum’s tea buyers were travelling the world, from India to Sri Lanka, to source the very best varieties for Britain’s most discerning customers. This was the age of tea, when open-air tea gardens sprang up around London and elegant ladies and gentlemen would stroll around beautifully designed gardens before enjoying a pot of the finest brew.

Today, Fortnum & Mason holds the royal warrant for the Queen for grocers and provisions merchant and as tea merchant and grocers to the Prince of Wales. Here, Fortnum’s resident tea specialist explains what to look for in the perfect cup of tea.

NO 1 The Tea Leaves

Inspect the tea leaves carefully. The shape will vary for different kinds of tea but for high-quality tea, look for large, unbroken leaves. Crushed or broken leaves or buds are a sign of machine harvesting, but keep in mind that black teas are sometimes cut to provide for stronger tasting tea.

Large, unbroken leaves are a sign of high-quality teas that will provide a stronger flavour.
NO 2 The Aroma

Don’t be afraid to sniff the dry teas before purchasing. Quality tea should have an aromatic and complex scent. If there is no scent at all, then the tea is likely to be poor quality with a dull flavour. Green tea should have a light and fresh aroma, while black tea should be sweet or floral.

A full tea fragrance ensures it has full flavour.
No 3 The Colour

After brewing the tea, check the colour. Whether you’re drinking black, green or red tea, ensure it is clear. A cloudy infusion is a sign the tea has likely been mixed with other ingredients.

Good quality tea should produce a clear yet vibrant infusion.
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2014-12-03 00:01:00.0
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