Guide

The Three Great Black Teas

The term 'Three Great Black Teas' refers to Darjeeling from India, Uva from Sri Lanka, and Keemun from China. While this designation is widely recognized in Japan, it is not an internationally established classification; however, all three are renowned for their distinctive aromas.

Darjeeling is known for its floral muscatel notes, Uva offers a refreshing quality, and Keemun evokes hints of orchids and smokiness. Tasting them side by side reveals their unique characteristics.

Compare	Darjeeling	Uva	Keemun
Origin	North India	Southeast Sri Lanka	Anhui Province, China
Liquor color	Orange	Bright Red	Light Orange
How to enjoy	Straight	Milk tea	Straight / Milk tea
In a word	Characterized by a unique aroma known as 'Muscatel'. Available at specialty shops by tea estate.	Rich and invigorating flavor with a fragrant aroma; one of the 'world's three great black teas' in Japan.	Features an orchid-like smoky flavor. Known as the Burgundy of Chinese tea.

The Great Black Teas

Darjeeling

Origin: North India
Liquor color: Orange
How to enjoy: Best enjoyed as a straight tea

Characterized by a unique aroma known as 'Muscatel'. Available at specialty shops by tea estate.

Uva

Origin: Southeast Sri Lanka
Liquor color: Bright Red
How to enjoy: Best enjoyed as milk tea

Rich and invigorating flavor with a fragrant aroma; one of the 'world's three great black teas' in Japan.

Keemun

Origin: Anhui Province, China
Liquor color: Light Orange
How to enjoy: Best enjoyed as straight tea or milk tea

Features an orchid-like smoky flavor. Known as the Burgundy of Chinese tea.

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