FAQs

  1. What is orthodox tea?

 Orthodox tea is made or processed using traditional methods of ancient China. This results in the complex and delicate flavours of our black, green, white and purple teas offering an authentic tea experience that promotes health and wellness.

 

  1. What orthodox teas does Ernestea produce?

 

Our range of Orthodox Teas include:

  • Black Tea
  • Green Tea
  • Purple Tea
  • Yellow Tea

Organic Teas:

  • Organic Black Tea
  • Organic Green Tea
  • Organic Purple Tea

 

 

  1. How do I make a cup of orthodox tea?

 

The general recommendation for brewing orthodox tea is to use 1 ½ teaspoons of tealeaves for every 1 cup of boiling water. Let the tea steep for at least 5 to 6 minutes.

 

  1. What does steeping tea mean?

 

To put it simply, to steep something means to soak it, which is what we do when we prepare tea. We take dry tea leaves, add them to hot water, let them soak, pour out the tea and then serve the tea.

 

  1. How long should I steep my tea for?

 

It all comes down to personal preference. Whole leaf teas (Orthodox Teas) take a notably longer time to reach their optimum flavour. The general rule of thumb is 4 to 5+ minutes for herbal tea (which can become bitter if over-steeped, but then again personal preference!)

 

  1. What is the difference between Orthodox and CTC tea?

 

Orthodox blends are loose leaf teas produced through traditional methods. This process involves withering, rolling of the withered leaves to obtain chemicals, oxidation to get the reddish-brown colour of the leaves, and firing for getting the final dried orthodox tea leaves. The production process of orthodox teas is overseen by a trained professional to ensure that the best flavours are extracted from the tea leaf.

 

CTC teas are produced in a conventional method and therefore, take much less time for production. It is fast mode of producing tea of consistent quality. In this process, tea leaves pass through rollers with serrated blades that crush, tear and curl the leaves and obtain the tea granules.

 

As compared to CTC blends, orthodox teas produce a more authentic tea experience. Orthodox blends of all types have a delicate flavour. CTC teas have a generic taste and produces a distinct astringent flavour.

 

  1. What other ways can I drink my orthodox tea?

 

Ernestea is wholesome as is! However, there are alternative ways of drinking it to suit different occasions and preferences. Consider trying lemon slices, ginger, masala spice, cardamom and honey. We think these condiments complement our teas. Please see our Recipe page here! for more.

 

 

  1. What are some of the benefits of Ernesteas?

At Ernestea, cottage tea factory, green leaves are hand-selected during harvest fand crafted by tea masters soon after picking from a single farm. This makes our speciality teas fresh and premium.

Ernesteas are whole leaf teas and produce a liquor that has a calming effect on the body and helps boost mental clarity. Whole leaf teas retain their authentic taste and are rich in flavour and colour. They are high in antioxidants.

 

  1. What are antioxidants?

Antioxidants assist in neutralizing damaged cells which help us to look and feel good.