Black teas are made with tea leaves which are fully oxidized, causing its dried, black appearance. They are traditionally grown in China, India, and Sri Lanka. The leaves are plucked, withered, rolled or crushed to oxidize, and baked to stop the process.
Black teas brew typically at 210 degrees, and have a deep, dark color – anywhere from reddish to deep brown. They typically have between 40-60 mg of caffeine per cup.
Green teas are made with tea leaves which are not oxidized, essentially right off the bush, giving them their natural green color and lighter taste. They are traditionally grown in China and Japan. The leaves are baked right after being plucked, to prevent withering or oxidization.
Green teas brew typically at 175 degrees, and have a light green color. They typically have between 25-35 mg of caffeine per cup.
White teas are made with budding tea leaves, picked when they are very young, and minimally processed, giving them their extremely delicate taste. They are almost exclusively grown in China. The leaves are not rolled or crushed in processing, giving them their leafy appearance.
White teas brew typically at 175 degrees, and brew an almost clear cup. They typically have between 10-15 mg of caffeine per cup.
Chai teas are not actually a type of tea leaves, they are blends of tea and spices, giving them their traditional, spicy taste. They are traditionally from India and can be made with any kind of tea, tea alternatives, or herbal blends. Traditional chai spices include ginger, cardamom, clove, and cinnamon.
Chai teas brew at a range of temperatures depending on their base, and have a variety of colors. They also vary in caffeine content, and can be non-caffeinated.
Tea alternatives are herbs that are brewed similarly to tea, but do not come from the tea plant. They grown all over the world and can include many plants, such as guayusa and yerba mate.
Tea alternatives generally brew at around 200-210 degrees, and have a variety of colors. They also vary in caffeine content, but still contain caffeine (unlike herbal teas).
Herbal teas are blends of herbs and spices that are brewed similarly to tea, but do not contain tea or tea alternatives. They made all over the world and can include a wide range of ingredients.
Herbal teas generally brew at around 200-210 degrees, and have a variety of colors. They are most significant in that they do not contain caffeine, and are great for calming teas or for tea drinkers who want to avoid caffeine.