Greetings, esteemed members of the Ekön Tea community! As we embark on a delightful exploration of the origins of our exceptional teas, we invite you to join us in unraveling the captivating story of the Camellia sinensis plant – the foundation of every enchanting cup within our distinguished collection.
The Camellia Sinensis:
Ever found yourself pondering the botanical origins of your favorite teas? Well, here's the secret: it all begins with the Camellia sinensis plant, a species that captivates tea enthusiasts around the globe. Our tea journey takes root in the two primary varieties of this illustrious plant – Camellia sinensis sinensis and Camellia sinensis assamica.
Sinensis and Assamica: A Linguistic Delight:
You might have noticed these tongue-twisting Latin names before, and we're here to shed light on the linguistic beauty behind them. "Sinensis" hails from the Latin word for Chinese and grow in Japan and China, while "Assamica" grown mostly in North East India. So, when you enjoy a cup of Ekön Tea, you're not just sipping a beverage; you're savoring a linguistic symphony that bridges cultures and continents.
Diverse Origins, Singular Quality:
Camellia sinensis sinensis, with its origins rooted in China, brings forth the delicate nuances and refined elegance found in our black teas. Meanwhile, Camellia sinensis assamica, flourishing in the rich soils of Assam, imparts a robust and bold character to teas such as our invigorating blends.
The Ekön Essence and Camellia Sinensis:
At Ekön Tea, our commitment to excellence extends to the very heart of the tea-making process – the Camellia sinensis plant. We carefully select leaves from both varieties, ensuring a harmonious blend that captures the essence of global tea culture. Every cup tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship, connecting you to the roots of tea cultivation across China, Assam, and beyond.
From Plant to Cup: A Tea Grower's Odyssey:
Have you ever wondered how tea gets from the plant to your cup? The journey involves careful cultivation, with tea plants thriving in specific conditions. Camellia sinensis sinensis, resilient in cold temperatures, graces the hills of China, Japan, and Darjeeling, growing between 3-5 meters tall. On the other hand, Camellia sinensis assamica prefers warmer climates, predominantly found in North East India, reaching impressive heights. Tea plants, known for their love of rain, require around 1,250mm annually and thrive at temperatures between 10-30°C.
Nurturing Tea with Precision:
Growing tea is an art, demanding meticulous care to ensure the plants flourish. Some tea estates strategically plant additional trees to shield delicate tea plants from the sun and strong winds, especially in exposed areas like Assam. Pruning occurs every 4-5 years, not only to maintain freshness but to facilitate tea pluckers in reaching the leaves. Ekön Tea also proudly produces organic tea, monitored rigorously from seed planting to teapot readiness.
Harvesting the Symphony: Plucking Tea with Precision:
Tea harvesting involves a fascinating process known as the 'plucking table,' where plants are pruned to waist height with flat tops, resembling tables. Different regions and seasons yield distinct flavors in tea leaves, known as 'flushes.' For instance, 'first flush' Darjeeling boasts the most flavorsome profile, while 'second flush' Assam is celebrated for its smooth and slightly malty character. The intricate art of plucking requires expertise to determine the tender, flavorful moment, acknowledging the immense effort of tea pickers and gardeners who contribute to the journey from plant to cup.
A Linguistic and Culinary Symphony:
As you savor the diverse flavors in each cup of Ekön Tea, take a moment to appreciate the linguistic and culinary symphony that unfolds. Camellia sinensis sinensis and Camellia sinensis assamica stand as living testaments to the rich tapestry of tea, where each leaf tells a story of heritage, tradition, and the pursuit of perfection.
Sip the Legacy, Taste the Tradition:
In the quest to answer the question, "Where is tea From?" we invite you to delve into the roots of Ekön Tea – a legacy shaped by the enchanting Camellia sinensis plant. With every sip, you're not just enjoying a beverage; you're embracing a journey that spans continents, cultures, and the timeless artistry of tea-making.
Cheers to the legacy of Camellia sinensis and the timeless elegance it imparts to Ekön Tea! And to all the tea pickers and gardeners, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for their dedication and hard work. Without them, we wouldn’t have our delicious tea!
