Afternoon tea, a quintessential British custom, evokes images of delicate finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and of course, a steaming pot of tea. But what kind of tea is typically served during this elegant repast? The answer is more nuanced than a simple “English Breakfast,” though that is certainly a popular choice. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of British afternoon tea and explore the diverse range of teas that grace the tables of hotels, tea rooms, and homes across the UK.
The Foundations: Black Teas Reign Supreme
While herbal infusions and green teas are enjoyed in Britain, black teas form the cornerstone of afternoon tea selections. Their robust flavor profiles and compatibility with milk and sugar make them ideal for accompanying the rich and savory treats traditionally served. The exact type of black tea can vary, reflecting personal preferences and regional variations.
English Breakfast: The Ubiquitous Choice
English Breakfast tea is arguably the most recognizable and widely consumed tea in Britain. It’s a blend, typically comprised of Assam, Ceylon (Sri Lanka), and Kenyan teas. The aim is to create a full-bodied, brisk tea that is both invigorating and comforting. Its boldness stands up well to milk and sugar, making it a perfect all-day beverage, but particularly well-suited to the afternoon. The exact composition of English Breakfast blends can vary by brand, each aiming for a unique, balanced flavor.
Assam: A Malty Marvel
Originating from the Assam region of India, Assam tea is known for its malty, rich flavor and strong character. It’s often a key component of English Breakfast blends, contributing depth and body. A single-origin Assam tea offers a bolder, more intense experience, perfect for those who prefer a more assertive cup. Its robust flavor pairs well with richer, heavier foods, making it a good choice for afternoon tea if you’re indulging in particularly decadent treats.
Ceylon: A High-Grown Delight
Ceylon tea, from Sri Lanka, offers a brighter, more citrusy flavor compared to Assam. High-grown Ceylon teas, in particular, possess a delicate floral aroma and a refreshing quality. They add a light, uplifting element to afternoon tea, contrasting nicely with the richness of the accompanying food. Ceylon teas are often blended with other black teas to create a more complex flavor profile, or enjoyed on their own for a lighter, more nuanced experience.
Darjeeling: The “Champagne of Teas”
Darjeeling, grown in the foothills of the Himalayas in India, is often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas” due to its delicate flavor and complex aroma. It can range from light and floral to muscatel and fruity, depending on the season and flush (harvest). A good Darjeeling can be a sophisticated choice for afternoon tea, enjoyed without milk to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors. However, its delicate nature may be overwhelmed by particularly strong or savory foods.
Beyond Black: Exploring Other Options
While black teas dominate the afternoon tea landscape, other types of tea are gaining popularity and offer delightful alternatives. These options cater to different preferences and provide a wider range of flavor profiles.
Earl Grey: A Bergamot Infusion
Earl Grey is a black tea flavored with bergamot oil, a citrus fruit. Its distinctive aroma and flavor make it a popular choice for afternoon tea, adding a refreshing and aromatic dimension. Some variations, such as Lady Grey, include additional citrus notes. Earl Grey pairs well with lemon-flavored cakes and other citrus-based treats.
Lapsang Souchong: A Smoky Sensation
Lapsang Souchong is a smoked black tea, traditionally from the Fujian province of China. Its smoky flavor is acquired by drying the tea leaves over pine fires. While not as common as other options, Lapsang Souchong can be a unique and intriguing choice for afternoon tea, particularly for those who enjoy bold and unusual flavors. Its smokiness complements savory dishes well.
Green Tea: A Refreshing Alternative
While not traditionally associated with afternoon tea, green tea is becoming increasingly popular as a lighter and more refreshing option. Its grassy, vegetal notes offer a contrast to the richer flavors of black tea. Sencha and Dragon Well are popular choices, offering a delicate and refreshing experience. Green tea pairs well with lighter sandwiches and pastries.
White Tea: The Delicate Choice
White tea, the least processed of all teas, offers a subtle and delicate flavor profile. Its light, floral notes make it a sophisticated and refreshing choice for afternoon tea, particularly in warmer weather. White tea is best enjoyed without milk or sugar to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors.
The Importance of Blend and Quality
The specific type of tea served at afternoon tea is only part of the equation. The quality of the tea and the skill in blending it play crucial roles in creating a memorable experience.
The Art of Blending
Blending teas is an art form, requiring expertise and a deep understanding of different tea varieties. Tea blenders carefully select teas from different regions and estates, combining them to create a balanced and harmonious flavor profile. The goal is to create a tea that is both complex and consistent, ensuring a pleasing experience with every cup.
Sourcing and Quality
The quality of the tea leaves themselves is paramount. Factors such as the tea plant variety, the growing conditions, and the harvesting techniques all influence the flavor and aroma of the tea. Reputable tea merchants source their teas from trusted growers, ensuring that they meet high standards of quality. Opting for loose leaf tea over tea bags generally results in a superior flavor experience, as loose leaves have more room to unfurl and release their flavors.
Serving and Etiquette: The Ritual of Afternoon Tea
The way tea is served and the etiquette surrounding afternoon tea are as important as the tea itself.
The Perfect Brew
Brewing the perfect cup of tea requires attention to detail. Using fresh, filtered water is essential. The water should be heated to the correct temperature for the specific type of tea. Black teas typically require boiling water, while green and white teas benefit from slightly cooler temperatures to prevent bitterness. The tea should be steeped for the appropriate amount of time, typically 3-5 minutes for black teas.
Milk and Sugar: To Add or Not to Add?
Whether to add milk and sugar is a matter of personal preference. Traditionally, milk is added to black teas to soften their flavor and create a smoother texture. Sugar can be added to sweeten the tea, but it’s not always necessary. Some teas, such as Darjeeling and green tea, are best enjoyed without milk or sugar to fully appreciate their delicate flavors.
The Setting and Presentation
Afternoon tea is a visual feast as well as a culinary one. The tea is typically served in elegant china cups and saucers, accompanied by a teapot, milk jug, and sugar bowl. The table is set with linen napkins, silverware, and tiered stands filled with sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The presentation is designed to create a sense of occasion and elegance.
A Moment of Tranquility
Afternoon tea is more than just a meal; it’s a ritual. It’s a time to slow down, relax, and enjoy the company of friends and family. The gentle clinking of teacups, the aroma of tea, and the delicious food all contribute to a sense of tranquility and well-being. It is a cherished tradition that continues to thrive in Britain and around the world.
In conclusion, while English Breakfast reigns as a popular choice, the tea served at afternoon tea in Britain is diverse and reflects individual preferences. From the robust Assam to the delicate Darjeeling and the aromatic Earl Grey, there is a tea to suit every taste. The key to a memorable afternoon tea experience lies not only in the type of tea chosen but also in its quality, the skill in brewing it, and the overall presentation and ambiance. So, whether you prefer a classic black tea with milk and sugar or a more adventurous blend, embrace the tradition of afternoon tea and savor a moment of refined indulgence.
What is the most common type of tea served during British afternoon tea?
The most common tea served during afternoon tea is undoubtedly black tea, specifically blends like Darjeeling, Assam, and Ceylon. These teas are robust and flavorful, standing up well to the addition of milk and sugar, which are frequently offered during the afternoon tea service. The strength and character of these teas are thought to complement the rich pastries and savory sandwiches that are characteristic of the afternoon tea experience.
While black tea reigns supreme, other types of tea are also often available, depending on the venue and individual preferences. Earl Grey, a black tea flavored with bergamot, is a popular choice, as are herbal infusions such as chamomile and peppermint, particularly for those who prefer to avoid caffeine. Green tea and oolong teas may also be offered, providing a wider range of options to cater to diverse palates.
Why is tea preferred over other beverages during afternoon tea?
Tea, with its rich history and established role in British culture, has become intrinsically linked with afternoon tea. Its warmth and subtle flavors provide a comforting and sophisticated accompaniment to the delicate pastries and finger sandwiches that characterize the meal. Tea also offers a social aspect, encouraging conversation and relaxation, further enhancing the experience of shared enjoyment.
Furthermore, tea possesses properties that are particularly well-suited for pairing with food. The tannins in tea can help to cleanse the palate between bites, preventing the build-up of flavors and allowing for a more nuanced appreciation of each item. The caffeine in tea provides a gentle energy boost, counteracting the potential sluggishness that might follow the indulgence of sweet treats.
Is there a specific blend designed explicitly for afternoon tea?
While there isn’t one single “afternoon tea blend” universally recognized across Britain, many tea companies create blends specifically marketed for afternoon tea. These blends often combine different black teas to achieve a balanced flavor profile – a blend of strength, brightness, and smoothness – ideal for enjoying with food. Often, these blends emphasize a lighter, brighter character compared to robust breakfast blends.
These “afternoon tea” blends are carefully crafted to complement the typical sweet and savory offerings found in the afternoon tea menu. They aim to provide a pleasant, uplifting experience without overpowering the other flavors. The specific composition can vary depending on the brand and target customer, but the overall goal is to create a harmonious and enjoyable tea experience.
What’s the difference between “high tea” and “afternoon tea” and which tea is served at each?
Afternoon tea, traditionally served between 3 pm and 5 pm, was initially conceived as a light meal to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner for the upper classes. It typically involves a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and pastries, accompanied by tea, usually a lighter black tea like Darjeeling or Earl Grey. This is a social occasion, often enjoyed in drawing rooms or gardens.
High tea, on the other hand, was historically a more substantial meal consumed by the working classes around 5 pm or 6 pm. It served as a replacement for both afternoon tea and dinner, offering more filling fare such as meat, cheese, bread, and vegetables. The tea served was often a stronger blend, like Assam, to accompany the heartier food. While both involve tea, their origins, content, and social context differ significantly.
How much milk and sugar is typically added to tea during afternoon tea?
The amount of milk and sugar added to tea during afternoon tea is entirely a matter of personal preference. There is no strict protocol dictating the proportions, and guests are encouraged to customize their tea to their liking. It’s generally considered polite to add milk after the tea has been poured, to avoid diluting the tea before it has a chance to steep properly.
Some purists argue that certain delicate teas, like Darjeeling, are best enjoyed without milk or sugar to fully appreciate their nuanced flavors. However, stronger black teas, such as Assam, often benefit from a splash of milk to mellow their intensity and a touch of sugar to enhance their sweetness. Ultimately, the goal is to create a tea that is enjoyable to the individual drinker.
Are herbal infusions or other non-tea options usually available during afternoon tea?
While black tea is the traditional and most common beverage served at afternoon tea, many establishments now offer a variety of herbal infusions and other non-tea options to cater to diverse tastes and dietary restrictions. This is especially true for those who are caffeine-sensitive or simply prefer alternative flavors.
Common herbal infusions available include chamomile, peppermint, and fruit blends. In addition, some venues may offer green tea, oolong tea, or even iced tea, particularly during warmer months. This wider selection ensures that all guests can find a beverage to complement their afternoon tea experience, regardless of their individual preferences.
What other traditional British customs or etiquette surround afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea is steeped in tradition, and several etiquette points are generally observed. Firstly, dress codes can vary, but smart casual attire is usually appropriate. Secondly, sandwiches are typically eaten first, followed by scones, and then pastries. Scones are traditionally split horizontally, not cut, and clotted cream and jam are applied separately.
Tea should be poured for others before oneself, and stirring should be done gently without clinking the spoon against the cup. Engaging in polite conversation is also crucial, creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere. While these customs may seem formal, they are ultimately intended to enhance the enjoyment and social grace of the afternoon tea experience.