Exploring Terroir: The Secret Behind Best Tea Blends

As part of the expert team at Ekön Tea, I have traveled all over the world, and tea fields immerse us in a realm of natural beauty and serenity as we enjoy their views. These places captivate the senses with their magnificent vistas and exquisite aromas. Today, we will explore the importance of terroir in our blends.

What is Terroir?

The word terroir originated in France to describe the various geographical and climatic conditions surrounding the cultivation of a specific plant—in this case, Camellia Sinensis (the botanical name for the tea plant). Some important elements that influence the terroir of tea include:

• Soil composition
• Slope of the land
• Altitude
• Seasonal changes
• Amount of sun and shade
• Humidity
• Temperature
• Temperature range
• Wind
• Amount of rainfall and frost
• Surrounding vegetation
• Cultivation methods 

The best terroirs for tea are those with acidic soil that drains well, temperatures between 10° and 35°C, rainfall of 2000 to 2300 mm/year, and an altitude of 1200 to 1800 meters above sea level. However, this does not necessarily mean that teas harvested in other conditions will be inferior. It all depends on the interaction of all the factors surrounding planting, harvesting, and production. Ideally, positive interactions translate into a complex sensory profile, where various aromatic notes emerge, creating unique flavors and aromas.

There is even a particular case where an insect determines a specific variety of Oolong teas: Oriental Beauty (from Taiwan); its uniqueness lies in the fact that the tea leaves are bitten by a small grasshopper while still on the plant, allowing the oxidation process to begin before harvesting, which adds sweet notes to the infusion.

The Importance of Terroir

Each of our Ekön Tea blends reflects the richness of its origin, where terroir plays a fundamental role in flavor and quality. The combination of climate, soil, and local cultivation practices influences the distinctive characteristics of each tea, making every sip a unique experience.

Exploring the Tea-Producing Regions of the World

• China
• Yunnan: Known for its rich and complex teas, especially Pu-erh and Dianhong. The unique climate and soil contribute to their robust flavor. Visitors can enjoy scenic tea gardens and learn about traditional tea-making processes.
• Hangzhou: Famous for Longjing (Dragon Well) tea, the favorable climate of this region allows for the production of high-quality green teas with a distinctive nutty flavor. Tourists can explore historic tea houses and participate in traditional tea ceremonies.
• Fujian: Known for its Oolong and white teas, the misty mountains of Fujian produce delicate flavors and fragrant aromas. Visitors can explore ancient tea forests and learn about the art of tea production.

• India
• Assam: This region is famous for its bold, malty black teas. The tropical climate and fertile soil contribute to a distinctive flavor. Visitors can explore extensive tea plantations and learn about harvesting.
• Darjeeling: The Darjeeling valley is globally recognized for its tea plantations and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can tour tea estates, participate in tastings, and enjoy local culture.
• Nilgiri: Known for its bright and fragrant teas, Nilgiri teas are ideal for ecotourism. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views while exploring tea gardens.
• Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
• Nuwara Eliya: Producing high-altitude teas with light flavors and floral notes, visitors can explore tea plantations and enjoy stunning views.
• Dimbulla: This region features rolling hills and misty conditions, contributing to rich, aromatic flavors in its teas.
• Uva: Known for its distinctive flavor, Uva tea is often used in blends. Visitors can enjoy tours of tea gardens and learn about tea production.

• Japan
• Uji: Famous for its matcha and gyokuro, Uji offers rich umami flavors. Visitors can participate in traditional tea ceremonies.
• Shizuoka: One of Japan's largest tea producers, it offers a variety of fresh, herbaceous green teas.
• Kagoshima: This region boasts a diversity of flavors, allowing visitors to interact with local farmers and learn about cultivation practices.
• South Africa
• Cederberg: Known for its Rooibos tea, this region produces herbal blends that are caffeine-free and have an earthy flavor. Visitors can learn about the harvesting process and enjoy the views.
• Argentina
• Misiones and Corrientes: Recognized for its tea production. Here, black and green teas are cultivated, characterized by their robust and fresh flavor. The subtropical climate and altitude of these regions impart a distinctive aromatic profile, with nutty notes and a slight astringency.

• Taiwan
• Alishan: Known for its high mountain Oolongs, Alishan offers a creamy flavor profile. Visitors can learn about the production process amidst breathtaking landscapes.
• Sun Moon Lake: This area is famous for its unique black teas, which are smooth and sweet.

• Nepal
• Ilám: Producing high-quality teas with floral and fruity notes, visitors can enjoy stunning views and learn about the local culture.
• Vietnam
• Mộc Châu: Renowned for its green teas, this region offers a range of fresh flavors and visitors can participate in tea harvesting activities.
• Kenya
• Kericho: Known for its strong black teas, ideal for blending. Visitors can enjoy tours of plantations and learn about tea production.

A Sensory Journey

When we enjoy a cup of Ekön Tea, we are experiencing a sensory journey that connects us to the place of origin of its ingredients. Our blends are designed to highlight the distinctive notes that each terroir offers. For example, our green tea blend includes leaves cultivated in fertile lands, where rain and sun combine to create a fresh and vibrant flavor. Each sip transports you to those green fields, allowing you to feel the essence of its home.

As part of the expert team at Ekön Tea, I had the incredible opportunity to craft green and black tea in South America, specifically in Oberá, Misiones, Argentina. 

This experience deepened my appreciation for the art and science of tea production in different terroirs and underscored the unique flavors derived from local soil and climate.

Sustainable Practices

In addition to the richness of terroir, at Ekön Tea, we are committed to sustainable practices that respect the environment and the communities producing our ingredients.

We work closely with local farmers who employ traditional and sustainable cultivation methods, ensuring that the authentic flavor of each ingredient remains intact. We believe that a quality tea starts with responsible and ethical cultivation, resulting in a positive impact for both the consumer and the producer.

Every cup of Ekön Tea is more than just a beverage; it is a testament to the place of origin of its ingredients and the love and dedication of those who cultivate them. By enjoying our blends, you not only delight in exceptional flavor but also embark on a journey from soil to cup, appreciating the richness of terroir that makes this experience possible. We invite you to explore our blends and join us on this journey that celebrates the connection between tea, land, and people.