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For lovers of a proper cuppa, few things compare to the richness and complexity of a well-brewed black tea. But within the category of black tea, there’s a wide spectrum of flavours, and something for every taste. From the malty depth of Assam to the allure of Keemun, each variety has its own story and flavour profile. Let’s take a journey through five iconic black teas you can find at Proper Cuppa, plus a bonus classic, and discover which brew best suits your taste.

1. Assam: Bold and Malty

Harvested from India’s Assam region, this tea is known for its full-bodied, malty or even oaky flavour. It brews dark red and is a breakfast favourite, perfect with a splash of milk and a biscuit or two. Assam is ideal for those who love a rich, hearty brew. You’ll find Assam in a number of breakfast blends, providing strong base notes.

2. Darjeeling: The Champagne of Teas

Grown in the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling is lighter and more floral than other black teas. With muscatel notes and a slightly astringent finish, it brews a light copper or yellow-y green and it’s best enjoyed plain or with a touch of lemon (not milk, which tends to flatten the cup and cover the delicate top notes).

3. Earl Grey: Fragrant and Elegant

Infused with bergamot oil, Earl Grey is not a single origin leaf like the other teas in this list. It may be a single black tea (e.g. Ceylon) or a blend. Earl Grey can also be made with a green, white or even herbal tea base: it’s the bergamot that defines it. The distinctive, citrus bergamot is as much about aroma as it is taste. This refined cup pairs beautifully with cakes and pastries. You’ll also find it paired with vanilla and steamed milk to create a beloved tea latte called London Fog.

4. Ceylon: Bright and Crisp

Originating from Sri Lanka (which has many sub-regions and a rich tea history) Ceylon tea has a lively profile, bright copper colour, brisk mouthfeel and a medium body. It’s versatile—delightful hot or iced, plain or sweetened, with or without milk. You’ll often find Ceylon providing strength and brightness to a tea blend. Plus, if your preferred tea is orange pekoe, it’s almost definitely a Ceylon!

5. Keemun: Smooth and Nuanced

Hailing from China, Keemun offers a subtle smokiness (more like leather than a bonfire) with hints of cocoa, spices and dried fruit. It’s a smooth, sophisticated option for those who appreciate nuanced flavours. Try it with dark chocolate for a decadent pairing.

6. Lapsang Souchong: A Smoke Show

This long-leafed Chinese black tea is slowly smoked to give it an iconic, barbecue, bonfire aroma. While it has a strong smoky scent, Lapsang often brews up with a fairly light-bodied cup, giving a taste and mouthfeel that might not match the promise of the initial fragrance. This is why I love using this leaf in blends with one or more of the other black teas.

Find Your Favourite

Ready to explore the world of black teas? Head over to Proper Cuppa’s shop and pick up a Tea Blending Kit or your favourite full-size pack. Whether you’re after bold or delicate, smoky or floral, we’ve got a brew that’s just your cup of tea.

Cheers to finding—or blending—your perfect cuppa!