black tea

Black tea is a type of tea that is dark in color due to the complete oxidation of its leaves before firing. It is produced by steeping the leaves and buds of the tea plant, Camellia sinensis, in hot water. Black tea is the most common type produced and is typically made from Assam or hybrid tea plants. The processing of black tea involves withering, rolling, fermentation, and drying, which develop its characteristic reddish-brown color and astringent flavor. This process differs from green tea, where oxidation is prevented, and oolong tea, which undergoes partial fermentation. Black tea has been known since at least 1706.12