frequently asked questions
How do you pronounce Orange Pekoe?
We say Orange Pee-ko
What makes Orange Pekoe different?
Since 2006, we have been selling and serving only the very finest teas, handpicked by us from around the world.
In the world of tea, the tea leaf grading system is the process of evaluating tea based on the quality and condition of the tea leaves themselves; the highest grades for Western and South Asian teas are referred to as ‘Orange Pekoe’. As we only sell the highest grade of loose leaf teas, we thought the name was fitting!
Where does tea come from?
The tea plant belongs to the Camellia family and has the Latin name camellia sinensis, meaning Chinese Camellia. All of the many thousands of different teas enjoyed around the world are made from the very young leaves and leaf buds that develop on the tea bushes during warmer seasons. In seasonal areas, new leaves are only produced from early spring to late autumn. In regions on or close to the equator, where the weather changes very little from month to month, the tea plant grows throughout the year and can produce much larger quantities of tea.
The camellia sinensis is divided into three main branches, but only two are used for commercial cultivation:
The camellia sinensis var. assamica
The camellia sinensis var. sinensis
The assamica prefers to grow at low altitudes in hot, humid conditions, and can grow to a height of 15 -18 metres (50 - 59 feet) if left unpruned and unplucked. It has long, large, broad leaves, and is happiest growing in tropical and sub-tropical conditions. Teas made from the leaves of the assamica are generally robust and strong and so this branch of the family is particularly well-suited to the production of black teas, but also makes some wonderful white teas too.
The sinensis prefers to grow at high altitudes, up to 2,400 metres (7874 feet), and likes the cool, misty air that swirls around mountain peaks. It can tolerate winter temperatures that drop as low as -5° to -10° C, but grows best in warmer temperate conditions. Bushes from this branch of the tea family reach heights of only 4 - 6 metres (13 - 20 feet), grow much more slowly, have smaller leaves, and create white, green, oolong and black teas that are delicate, sweet and light.
What is the difference between first flush and second flush Darjeeling?
Darjeeling produces two main pickings each spring – first flush and second flush.
The first flush is closer to green tea in appearance and flavours. Key flavour profiles of first flush Darjeeling would be light, fresh and fruity and crisp with often notes of muscatel grapes.
The second flush Darjeeling teas, plucked in early summer, are more developed and complex in aroma and flavour. Both are best enjoyed black and are known as the ‘champagne of teas’.
Can water effect the taste of my tea?
Absolutely! We recommend you always boil freshly drawn filtered water to brew your tea. This is because the high amount of oxygen in water contributes to a fully flavoured tea. Never let water stand in the kettle as it diminishes the taste of the tea.
In addition, soft water can enhance the flavour of your tea, whereas hard water, with its high mineral content, can have a detrimental effect on the taste of the tea. Watch out for visible cues such as scum and cloudiness. Using filtered water for your kettle is always advised.
Does water temperature affect the taste of my tea?
Yes, it does! Each of our tea pouches (and tea pages) advises you on the temperature required to brew your tea.
White teas, for example, are one of the most delicate. Using boiling water on white tea would scold the leaves and ruin the flavour and health benefits. Using boiling water on green teas will also ruin the tea flavours and give you a bitter, over-brewed infusion. Please do read the label in order to be guided on how to brew your tea for optimum flavour and benefits.
How much caffeine is there in tea?
This varies between the different categories of tea, depending on their oxidisation level and how the leaves are processed. One cup of black tea contains about half the amount of caffeine of a cup of coffee.
Tea also offers many diverse health benefits, including being rich in antioxidants and high in vitamin C. It’s also known to reduce inflammation, boost metabolism and aid the immune system. Unlike the hit of caffeine that coffee provides, the effect of tea is a gentler ‘kick’ on the body's system, as the caffeine is released over a longer period of time.
Oolong, green, jasmine and white teas all contain varying levels of caffeine.
Rooibos, herbal and other fruit infusions are caffeine-free.
How long does tea stay fresh for and how should I store it?
Our loose leaf teas are packed in either our resealable ziplock bags or our handsome caddies to maintain freshness. If they are stored correctly, once opened your teas should keep for 12 months. All of our teas are sold with a ‘Best Before Date’.
We recommend that our teas are stored in airtight, dry containers and are kept out of direct sunlight.
How many cups of tea will I get from a 100g bag of loose-leaf tea?
A normal teaspoon of tea is between 2.5-3g, so 100g of loose-leaf tea will give you between 20 – 30 cups of tea, depending on how strong you like your infusion!
Can I buy a larger quantity of tea than the website allows?
Please contact us on info@orangepekoeteas.com and let us know your requirements so we can help you.
Do you sell tea accessories?
Yes, you can find our full range in the Gifts section of our website here
Do you offer limited edition and special blends?
Yes, for special occasions such as Mother’s Day and Christmas. We also get bespoke requests, and create our very own in-house tea blends. These are available to purchase online and in our tearoom, and are available until stocks last.