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Premium Black Orthodox Loose Tea 1kg

Original price was: KShs 5,000.00.Current price is: KShs 4,000.00.

Availability: In Stock

Black orthodox tea is a traditionally crafted black tea made using hand-guided or small-batch methods that preserve the integrity of the tea leaf. Unlike mass-produced teas, the leaves are carefully withered, gently rolled, fully oxidized, and slowly dried, allowing their natural character to fully develop.

Description

Orthodox” refers to the traditional method of tea processing, where the tea leaf remains largely intact. The goal is to protect the leaf structure, allowing the tea to develop complex flavor, aroma, and character naturally.

This is the opposite of industrial methods that crush leaves into small particles for speed and uniformity.


2. How Black Orthodox Tea Is Made (Step-by-Step)

a) Withering
Freshly plucked tea leaves are spread out and gently dried to remove excess moisture.

  • This softens the leaf

  • Prepares enzymes for oxidation

  • Begins aroma development

b) Rolling (Key Difference)
Leaves are hand-rolled or gently machine-rolled, not crushed.

  • Cell walls break slowly

  • Essential oils are preserved

  • Flavor develops gradually and deeply

c) Oxidation (Fully Oxidized)
The rolled leaves are exposed to air, turning from green to coppery-brown.

  • Polyphenols oxidize → rich color and body

  • Flavor becomes malty, fruity, or honeyed

  • Bitterness is controlled, not forced

d) Firing / Drying
Heat stops oxidation and locks in flavor.

  • Moisture is removed

  • Shelf stability increases

  • Aroma becomes refined and warm


3. Leaf Appearance

Black orthodox tea is easy to recognize:

  • Long, twisted, or wiry leaves

  • Whole or broken leaf pieces (not dust)

  • Visible natural variation (a sign of quality)

This intact leaf structure is why orthodox tea brews slowly and evenly.


4. Flavor & Aroma Profile

Because the leaf is preserved, flavors are layered and nuanced, not flat.

Common tasting notes include:

  • Malt

  • Caramel

  • Honey

  • Dried fruit

  • Floral or light spice

  • Gentle smokiness (origin-dependent)

The liquor is typically amber to deep copper, clear and bright.


5. Caffeine & Mouthfeel

  • Caffeine is released more gradually

  • Energy feels smoother and longer-lasting

  • Less jittery than tea dust or strong CTC blends

Mouthfeel is:

  • Full-bodied

  • Smooth

  • Naturally sweet with low astringency


6. Brewing Advantages

  • Can handle multiple infusions

  • Rarely turns bitter if brewed correctly

  • Flavor evolves with each steep

This makes it ideal for slow tea rituals rather than rushed cups.

Who Black Orthodox Tea Is For

  • Tea drinkers who value quality over convenience

  • People sensitive to bitterness

  • Those who enjoy pure tea without milk or sugar

  • Premium, wellness, or luxury tea brands

  • Customers seeking a refined daily stimulant