At Newby Teas, we believe that tea is more than just a warm drink – it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the distinct character of its origin. Speciality tea offers a refined experience that showcases the very best in premium tea, from ethical sourcing to expert production. But what exactly makes a tea ‘speciality’? Let’s take a closer look.

What Makes a Tea ‘Speciality’?

Speciality tea stands apart from standard blends thanks to its exceptional quality, flavour, and origin. According to the International Speciality Tea Association (ISTA), a tea is considered 'speciality' if it scores 80 points or more on a 100-point scale, based on aroma, taste, appearance, and balance.

Speciality teas are crafted with care – from handpicking the finest leaves to sustainable farming and expert processing. Here's what makes them unique:

Tea Flavours

Speciality teas offer a rich and complex flavour experience. Unlike mass-produced teas with a uniform taste, speciality teas have layered tasting notes that reflect the season, terroir, and processing method. For instance, a premium Gyokuro green tea may reveal herby, umami tones, while a Dan Cong Oolong can offer hints of plum, orchid, and honey.

Tea Origins

Speciality teas are often single-origin, meaning they come from a specific region or even a particular estate. The terroir – including soil, climate, and altitude – plays a vital role in shaping the tea’s character. Teas from Darjeeling, Assam, or Fujian each carry distinctive notes that reflect where they were grown. This connection between land and leaf gives each cup its own story.

The Journey of Speciality Tea: From Harvest to Cup

Every cup of speciality tea begins with a careful tea harvesting process. Only the top two leaves and the bud are plucked – these tender parts contain the most flavour and aroma. Unlike machine-harvested teas, speciality teas are often handpicked to ensure the best quality.

Once picked, the leaves go through a precise process: withering, rolling, oxidising (for black and oolong teas), and drying. Each step is tailored to the type of tea – green, black, oolong, or white – to preserve its natural flavours.

This attention to detail is what makes each cup of speciality tea so distinctive, and why it’s produced in smaller batches than commercial tea.

Ethical Teas: Sustainability and Fair Trade in Speciality Tea

Many speciality tea producers are committed to ethical practices. At Newby Teas, we value sustainability and fair treatment throughout the supply chain.

Ethical teas are often grown using eco-friendly methods – with minimal pesticides and careful land management. Fair trade practices ensure that farmers and tea workers are paid fairly and work under safe conditions. Choosing speciality tea means supporting communities and protecting the environment.

Brewing the Perfect Cup of Speciality Tea

To truly enjoy premium tea, it’s important to brew it correctly. Each type of tea has different brewing needs – here are a few simple tips:

• Green tea: Use water at around 75–80°C and steep for 2–3 minutes.
  
  

• Black tea: Use boiling water (100°C) and brew for 3–5 minutes.
  
  

• Oolong tea: Brew at 85–90°C for 3–5 minutes.
  
  

• White tea: Use water at 70–80°C and steep for 4–5 minutes.

  
  

Always use fresh, filtered water and avoid over-steeping to prevent bitterness. A quality loose-leaf tea also deserves a proper teapot or infuser, allowing the leaves to unfurl and release their full flavour.

Why Choose Newby Teas UK for Speciality Tea?

At Newby Teas, we’re proud to offer speciality tea from London that showcases the finest leaves from around the world. Each tea is carefully sourced, ethically produced, and expertly crafted to highlight its unique character. Our selection reflects a deep respect for tea origins, traditional processing methods, and the art of brewing tea.

We offer:

• Handpicked, high-grade leaves from renowned estates
  
  

• A wide variety of tea flavours and styles, from delicate white teas to rich oolongs
  
  

• Sustainable sourcing and ethical teas that support fair trade and environmentally conscious farming
  
  

• Elegant packaging and gift-ready presentation, perfect for tea lovers and special occasions

  
  

Speciality tea is more than just a drink – it’s a journey through tradition, terroir, and expert craftsmanship. Whether you’re an experienced connoisseur or new to the world of premium tea, Newby Teas invites you to explore a refined tea experience where every cup tells a story, and every sip is a moment to savour.

FAQs

What is in a speciality tea?

Speciality tea is made from high-quality, handpicked leaves – often from a single origin – and crafted with care to preserve the tea’s natural flavours. It contains no artificial additives and reflects the true essence of the tea plant.

What are the benefits of speciality tea?

Speciality teas offer richer, more complex flavours, higher antioxidant content, and are often produced using ethical and sustainable practices. This makes them a healthier and more environmentally friendly choice.

What are the different types of speciality tea?

Speciality tea includes a wide range of types, such as:

• Green tea – fresh and grassy, rich in antioxidants
  
  

• Black tea – bold and malty, ideal for a classic brew
  
  

• Oolong tea – complex and floral or roasted, depending on oxidation
  
  

• White tea – light, delicate, and subtly sweet
  
  

• Pu Erh tea – earthy, fermented, and gut-friendly
  
  

• Matcha – powdered green tea with vibrant flavour and nutrients