English Breakfast

English Breakfast – Black Tea

Origin: India – Darjeeling

Infusion Temperature: 90° Celsius

Infusion Time: 3-4 minutes

Serving Size: 1 g/100 ml

English Breakfast Tea is the epitome of tradition-a timeless blend of robust black teas originating from Assam and the island of Sumatra in the Indian Ocean. This particular variety is composed of carefully selected broken-leaf teas, with a notable contribution from the prestigious tea gardens of Darjeeling. It offers a bold, well-rounded flavor that appeals to connoisseurs who appreciate classic, no-frills profiles without the distraction of eclectic aromas or experimental notes.

Renowned as one of the most iconic and widely consumed teas in the United Kingdom-alongside Earl Grey-English Breakfast Tea has long been associated with the tradition of starting the day right. Its strong, invigorating character makes it especially well-suited for morning consumption, typically served with a hearty breakfast. Often referred to simply as “Breakfast Tea,” this blend shares its cultural roots with similar varieties like Irish Breakfast Tea, all of which are traditionally crafted using robust teas from regions like Assam, Ceylon, and Kenya-pillars of British and Irish tea culture.

The origins of English Breakfast Tea are steeped in both tradition and legend. While the exact point of its invention remains unclear, it is well-documented that the custom of drinking a strong black tea blend at breakfast has existed in England for centuries. The term “English Breakfast” became popular among producers and merchants due to the tea’s ideal pairing with substantial morning meals.

Some trace its roots to the Edwardian era, a time when lavish breakfasts were commonplace and a rich tea was the beverage of choice. Others suggest the name was coined in colonial America, where an English tea merchant marketed this bold blend under the “English Breakfast” label. By the mid-19th century, the blend had gained widespread acclaim. According to one account, it was in Scotland where this blend first gained traction, eventually becoming a favorite of Queen Victoria, who is said to have discovered it at Balmoral Castle and helped popularize it across England.

English Breakfast Tea is high in theine, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a natural energy boost to begin the day. Its flavor is full-bodied, slightly astringent, and impeccably balanced-a reflection of the harmonious interplay between its component teas. The resulting brew offers a deep, reddish-brown infusion with a rich and unmistakable aroma.

This tea can be enjoyed plain for a pure black tea experience or prepared in the traditional British style, with a splash of milk and a touch of sugar. It pairs exceptionally well with savory breakfast dishes and brunch fare, though its versatility makes it suitable for consumption throughout the day.

Once brewed, the infusion yields a dark reddish hue and a powerful, aromatic profile, thanks to the oxidation processes involved in the production of black tea.

Like other black teas, English Breakfast Tea is rich in flavonoids, known for their antioxidant properties. These compounds help combat free radicals, slow down cellular aging, and support overall well-being. The tea’s theine content also makes it a natural stimulant, helping to improve focus, concentration, and mental alertness. Some studies even suggest that regular consumption of black tea, including English Breakfast, may contribute to improved circulation and cardiovascular health.