Ceylon - Vithanakande Estate - WS
Ceylon - Vithanakande Estate - WS
Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, has been providing excellent teas since the mid 1800's and is currently one of the largest tea producing countries in the world. Prior to the introduction of tea plants to Sri Lanka, this country was primarily known for its crops of cinnamon and coffee. Due to economic changes, which affected the cinnamon crop, and a fungal disease, which devastated the coffee plants, Ceylon began experimenting with tea plants in 1839. It wasn't until 1867, when James Taylor, a British planter, began a tea plantation in Kandy, that tea was established as a viable industry. His venture was soon followed by other tea gardens in and around the area.
Sri Lanka has 6 growing regions: Kandy, Uda Pussellawa, Uva, Ruhuna, Dimbula and Nuwara Eliya. The central highlands of Sri Lanka offer humidity, cooler temperatures and consistent rainfall, all of which provide a favorable environment for high quality teas.
Ceylon teas are best paired with foods such as breakfast meals (breads, eggs, smoked fish, bacon, etc.), light savory foods, meats, eggs, cream cheese, pastries and fruit, to name a few.
This family owned and managed estate is located in the Ratnapura district of Sri Lanka, overlooking the Sinharaja rainforest. Their climate is perfect for growing these slender, black, twisted leaves that produce a light amber cup.
The tea is smooth drinking, with complex flavors, and a full body that has a slightly malty taste. Wonderful as a light breakfast tea or for afternoon enjoyment!
Brew tea at 212º - steep for 3 minutes
- In stock, ready to ship
- Backordered, shipping soon
Just came across some notes I made on this Ceylon from S&V: Light, Mild, Clean, Pretty Amber and Low Astringency. In other words, another 5-StarS&V Ceylon.
The Vithanakande Estate offering from S&V is likely the best tea that can be purchased from the region. It retains the smooth, bold, and somewhat malty flavors Ceylon is known for, while adding a bit of complexity. When brewed right (1 even tsp, no more than 4 minutes at boil) the liquor is a deep reddish color, and has just a hint of nutty character. While I prefer this later in the day when the taste buds have really awoken, it would be enjoyable as a breakfast tea. Takes a tsp of sugar just fine, but that's all I'd add.
I am not a person that is good at describing things, so all that I can say about this tea is that it is super good, I make 2 gallons at a time for iced tea, this tea is great for that because it is a strong enough tea that I dont have to use much of it, I will order more at some time.
I am an Assam drinker, but this is every bit as good as well as strong. And the big bonus is the price of it here. Other shops sell this for a ridiculous price. Just another reason for being a loyal customer
One of my favorite teas I choose time and time again. Perfect on it's own. Feels almost heavy, but in a good way.