Superna Black Tea

While all teas are from the same plant (Camellia Sinensis), black tea is the most processed of the varieties. Once the leaves are picked, they are left to wither for several hours. The leaves are then 'rolled' to begin the fermentation process by creating an enzynematic process which releases the tea leaves oils. These aromatic oils aid in the oxidation process, which can last for several hours. The last step consists of placing the leaves in an oven with temperatures reaching up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. When the leaves are 80 percent dry, the leaves complete their drying over wood fires. The drying process stops the fermentation of the tea. The resulting product is brownish (sometimes black) in color and is sorted accordingly to size. The premium product is 'whole leaf' tea which is what Superna Tea Company sells. The lesser quality broken leaf teas and smaller pieces called 'fannings' are typically used in tea bags and other food products.