Kosmic Alchemy Organic Assam Tea (Orthodox) 80g. This black tea is made from organically certified tea leaves grown in the mountains of Assam, northeastern India, and processed using the traditional "orthodox method." It is a genuine black tea characterized by a deep malty flavor and a natural sweetness and floral aftertaste that lingers after drinking.
Assam and the Orthodox Method
Assam is a major tea-producing region in northeastern India, spread across the Brahmaputra River basin. Tea leaves grown in the rich low-lying soil and hot, humid climate are known as one of the most robust teas in the world and have long been a staple in British breakfast teas and milk teas. This product is not made using the CTC method (Crush, Tear, Curl: a mass-production method where tea leaves are finely cut by machine), but rather finished using the "orthodox method," where skilled hands knead and dry the tea leaves. By carefully finishing the tea while maintaining the shape of the leaves, the subtle aroma, sweetness, and lingering finish inherent to tea are brought out even within its richness.
Flavor and How to Enjoy
The strong liquor (reddish-orange) and powerful malty (like malt) richness, along with the faint floral aftertaste that remains in the mouth after finishing, define the character of this Assam tea. It is a versatile tea that can be enjoyed straight or as a chai with plenty of milk, with both preparations highlighting its best qualities.
Recommended Brewing Method
Use boiling water (95-100℃) to preheat the teapot.
Pour 180-200mL of hot water over 2-3g of tea leaves (about 1 teaspoon).
Cover and steep for 3-5 minutes (4-5 minutes is recommended if making milk tea).
Strain with a tea strainer and enjoy.
Also check out Kosmic Alchemy's tea series
From the same organic tea leaf series, we also offer Organic Chai Tea (Assam-based + spice blend) and Organic Balance Tea (Ayurvedic herbal blend).
What's the difference between orthodox and CTC methods?
Orthodox production is a traditional method that involves drying tea leaves while rolling them, maintaining their shape throughout the process. CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) is a mass-production method that uses machines to finely cut the leaves. Orthodox teas are characterized by a slow extraction and rich aroma and aftertaste, while CTC teas are known for their strong flavor that brews quickly.
Is it suitable for milk tea?
Yes, Assam is a prime example of a black tea well-suited for milk tea. Its powerful richness and dark liquor blend beautifully with the sweetness of milk. We recommend steeping it a little longer before adding milk.
How is it different from Chai Tea (ka0022)?
Assam Tea (this product) is an authentic black tea made purely from tea leaves. Chai Tea (ka0022) is a spice tea with an Assam base, blended with cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper.
Can I get that iced?
Yes, we recommend "flash-chilled iced tea," which is prepared by steeping a strong brew (using double the normal amount of tea leaves with half the usual amount of hot water) and then pouring it immediately into a glass filled with plenty of ice. This method results in a beautifully clear, bright amber color.