Did you know that Assam tea is the base for English Breakfast blend tea and masala chai? Tea connoisseurs love savoring this tea without anything added since it has a rich, full-bodied flavor with a malty note. Besides, this tea packs a punch of caffeine. So on days that you don't feel like coffee, try Assam tea!
We searched the internet to find the best Assam teas available. These teas are aromatic, and we looked for both loose-leaf and tea bag options. Our buying guide will cover both the flavor of Assam teas and how to ensure you are choosing a good-quality product.
Quick List - Top Assam Teas
Davidson's Organics
Organic Assam Banaspaty: Bold, Malty, Vertically Integrated
I am a Certified Tea Sommelier and blogger at teacachai.com with a business and fashion background. Besides drinking tea, I enjoy creating tea-infused recipes, cocktails/mocktails, teaching workshops and sharing all about tea. I got into tea at a young age and have always been super passionate about it!
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Table of Contents
Assam tea is a black tea made from the Camellia Sinensis plant native to the Assam region in India. Compared to other kinds of tea, such as green and white tea, Assam tea is highly oxidized. It boasts a full-bodied, intense flavor with a malty finish and a rich amber color.
Not only does it taste fantastic by itself, but Assam tea is also wonderful with milk and sugar. In fact, its strong and earthy flavor makes this tea a great base for Masala chai (spiced tea), one of the most enjoyed beverages in India.
Assam tea also has a high caffeine content, so it can help you stay focused and feel energized. This tea brings a lot of health benefits as well. Some of them include strengthening your immune system, promoting weight management, lowering blood sugar, and preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
Assam is an Indian state in the northeastern part of India that produces not only black tea but also green and white tea (on a much lower scale). It is the single largest black tea-producing region in the world, and it is commonly recognized as malty with a distinctive aroma.
Regarding caffeine, black tea typically has the most caffeine of all the tea types, but bear in mind that it has considerably less caffeine than a cup of coffee.
With some options in mind, let's proceed to the selection process! There are plenty of factors that you might want to take into consideration before purchasing, such as the tea grade and type. For more details, read on.
While looking at Assam tea products, you might find acronyms like TGFOP or FTGFOP. Basically, these are grades assigned to whole leaf black tea to help identify the size and style of dried tea leaves. Some of the common grades you'll frequently see are:
As a general rule of thumb, the higher the grade, the more aromatic the tea tastes, and the higher the price is. Besides whole leaf tea, there are also broken tea leaves and low-quality dust and fanning. They produce a strong cup, but they are definitely less complex and aromatic than higher grades.
Assam tea can be manufactured using the conventional way or the CTC (crush, tear, and curl) method. Traditionally, Assam teas are made through four steps: withering, rolling, oxidizing, and drying.
In the conventional method, hand-plucked tea leaves are spread out and exposed to the air to wither. Then they're rolled to release the chemicals that will form the tea's color and pungency. The rolled leaves are spread out again and exposed to oxygen for several hours.
When the leaves change from green to copper, they are dried over a heat source to stop oxidation. If you're into a subtle, aromatic flavor, then this whole leaf tea is the way to go.
CTC Assam tea is processed similarly. But instead of being rolled out at the large stage before packaging, they pass through multiple cylindrical rollers and are crushed, torn, and curled into small balls. Compared to traditional Assam tea, CTC tea tends to be stronger and brisker.
There are two distinct production styles in Assam: the whole leaf "Orthodox" style and the CTC style (Crush-Tear-Curl). Tea factories in Assam mostly produce CTC tea for the wholesale commodity market.
My suggestion when trying to decide what style and grade to choose is to think about what you enjoy. For an aromatic and complex cup, go for a higher grade loose leaf. To enjoy a strong cup or if you like to add milk, try a CTC.
There are remains like fannings and dust from the production of both styles. These are often found in mass-market tea bags and are chosen because they are cheaper and they infuse quickly to make a strong, robust cup.
Tea can be categorized into two kinds: loose leaf and tea bags. While loose leaf tea delivers a stronger and richer flavor, tea bags are quick to use and convenient to take on the go.
Tea bags are the best choice if you're looking for something convenient. They make it fast and easy to brew a cup of tea. All you need is a tea bag, a cup, some hot water, and a teeny bit of time. Moreover, tea bags are very affordable!
But when purchasing tea bags, consider the material of the bags. Even though most tea bags are safe, some are crafted from plastic and might release microplastic particles into your tea.
Paper tea bags might be bleached with chlorine to achieve a clean, off-white look. This bleaching process often involves health-damaging chemicals like dioxin, which has been shown to cause infertility and hormonal problems.
Some products are made with epichlorohydrin as well, a type of plastic component that prevents the bags from breaking. But, it might break down in your tea and cause stomach issues.
To be on the safe side, go for tea bags made with plant-based materials like cornsilk and hemp. They are not only great for you, but they are also better for the environment due to their biodegradability.
If you choose tea bags, make sure your tea bags have at least some whole leaves. If it also contains dust and fannings, it can sometimes produce an even more full-bodied cup than loose leaf tea. Some may tell you otherwise, but we heard it here first from a tea sommelier!
It is hard for me to recommend tea bags because, the majority of times, the tea used to fill them is of low quality. There are, of course, exceptions where whole leaf tea is used to fill pyramid-style tea bags or others.
But even having the quality issue covered, it makes no sense to me to generate unnecessary waste from tea bags considering how easy it is to make loose leaf tea.
Loose leaf teas usually contain a mixture of whole leaves and leaf buds to deliver a full-bodied, rich flavor that satisfies your taste buds. They are often loaded with oils, vitamins, and minerals that naturally exist in the leaves.
But, it takes time to brew loose leaf tea. You'll also need a teapot or infuser, so it might not be a convenient option if you want to brew some tea quickly. The price can be quite high as well, depending on the grade of your tea leaves.
Nonetheless, if you're a tea addict, loose leaf tea will bring you the flavorful experience you're looking for!
I will always recommend loose leaf tea because, almost all the time, the quality will be much superior to tea bags. You only need a reusable infuser to steep your leaves, and you can resteep them several times, too.
The aromatics and complexity of flavor and notes you'll get from properly brewing loose leaf tea are incomparable! Always be mindful of steeping times and temperatures.
A product that is made entirely from Assam tea leaves will deliver the most robust and natural flavor. So, you'll know the flavor profile of the tea leaves right away. However, if you want to change things up a little, go for a blended tea instead.
Some products are infused with warming spices like cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom that can tantalize your taste buds. Others boast a combination of Assam tea with other kinds of tea, like Darjeeling, to give you a more complicated flavor.
Assam CTC is the perfect choice for a Masala Chai base, and it has been used that way traditionally for ages. This is because it provides an intense flavor and a full body that won't get lost or diluted when milk is added. This, paired with strong spices like ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, peppercorn, and such works like a charm!
Tea can bring various health benefits, but there might be harmful chemicals in your tea. Tea leaves are often treated with pesticides, such as neonicotinoids, and pesticide residue might end up in your tea.
To give yourself some peace of mind, consider certified organic products by accredited certifying agencies such as the USDA. They are grown without any fertilizers and pesticides and also proven to contain no artificial fillers.
Most tea farms are linked to poor working conditions and child labor. To support the rights of tea workers, many brands are committed to fair-trade practices to ensure that workers are paid a fair salary and not exploited. Therefore, by buying a fair-trade certified tea, you are helping to improve the lives of workers.
Many brands are also dedicated to eco-conscious practices and actually launch their own green initiatives. In fact, there are products packed in reusable and washable pouches. You'll also find tea bags made with plant-based materials that are completely biodegradable.
So if you're concerned about the environment, those environmentally-friendly products are definitely a great choice!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tea Type | Organic | Amount of Teabags | Amount of Loose Leaf | |||||
1 | Organic Positively Tea Company Assam TGFOP | ![]() | Organic Assam Black Tea: Sweet, Smooth, Complex | Loose Leaf | 16 Oz | |||
2 | Taylors of Harrogate Taylors of Harrogate |Pure Assam Tea Bags | ![]() | Assam Tea: Rich, Full-Bodied, Malty | Tea Bag | 50 Bags | |||
3 | Tea India CTC Assam Tea | ![]() | Premium Assam Black Tea: Strong, Full-Bodied, Authentic | Loose Leaf | unknown | 50 Oz | ||
4 | Davidson's Organics Organic Assam Banaspaty | ![]() | Organic Assam Banaspaty: Bold, Malty, Vertically Integrated | Loose Leaf | 16 Oz | |||
5 | Vahdam Assam Second Flush Black Tea | ![]() | High-Quality Tea With a Slightly Sweet, Well-Balanced Flavor | Loose Leaf | unknown | 12 Oz | ||
6 | Clipper Teas Clipper Teas|English Breakfast Assam Blend | ![]() | A timeless favorite for tea lovers everywhere | Tea Bag | 80 Bags | |||
7 | Numi Organic Aged Earl Grey Tea Numi Organic Aged Earl Grey Tea | ![]() | Numi's Organic Assam Black Tea - a true celebration of flavor and tradition | Loose Leaf | unknown | 16 Oz | ||
8 | 20 Leaves Assam Loose Leaf Black Tea - 100% Certified Organic | ![]() | Certified Organic Assam: Robust, Malty, and Full-Bodied | Loose Leaf | 16 Oz | |||
9 | Wagh Bakri Black Premium Loose Tea From Assam Special International Blend | ![]() | Bold, malty, and authentic - Wagh Bakri Premium Assam Tea, a taste of India's finest | Loose Leaf | unknown | unknown | 16 Oz | |
10 | Ahmad Tea Kalami Assam Loose Leaf | ![]() | KALAMI ASSAM LOOSE LEAF: Rich, Smooth, Award-Winning | Loose Leaf | unknown | 16 Oz |
Amount of Teabags | |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 16 Oz |
Savor the essence of Assam with Organic Positively Tea Company's Assam TGFOP, a distinguished black tea celebrated for its intricate flavor profile. Harvested from organic gardens in Assam, India, this tea unveils a textured complexity with smooth top notes and a robust, sweet undertone. Traditionally cherished as a breakfast tea, its high caffeine content invigorates with each sip. Certified USDA Organic, this tea ensures purity, devoid of artificial additives and GMOs. Steep at 212°F for 3 minutes to unleash its full character. Organic Positively Tea Company prides itself on curating a diverse range of USDA Certified Organic teas, fostering a positively delicious tea experience free from synthetic flavors and harsh chemicals.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic |
Amount of Teabags | 50 Bags |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf |
Taylors of Harrogate presents their Pure Assam Tea Bags, sourced from the fertile Brahmaputra valley in north-eastern India during the esteemed second flush harvest. Known for its robust and malty flavor profile, this black tea offers a satisfyingly rich experience. Each tea bag, packed with 100% natural Assam tea, brews into a full-bodied cup that pairs beautifully with breakfast or enjoyed on its own. Taylors of Harrogate's commitment to sustainable practices is evident through their Rainforest Alliance and Carbon Neutral certifications, ensuring that every cup supports ethical tea production. Infuse one tea bag in freshly boiled water at 100°C for 4-5 minutes to release the tea's optimal flavors. This blend not only delivers on taste but also reflects Taylors of Harrogate's decades-long dedication to fostering close, respectful relationships with Assam tea producers, enhancing quality year after year.
Tea Type | Tea Bag |
---|---|
Organic |
Amount of Teabags | |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 50 Oz |
Tea India CTC Assam Tea offers a robust and authentic experience with its premium loose leaf blend crafted from the renowned Assam tea gardens. Utilizing the Crush Tear Curl (CTC) method, where tea leaves are rolled into small pellets, this blend ensures a rich and full-bodied flavor profile that is ideal for traditional chai preparations. Each sip embodies the essence of Assam's tea hills, delivering a strong brew that resonates with tea enthusiasts. With its natural ingredients and straightforward brewing process—steeped for 3-4 minutes with the option to add milk—the tea promises a flavorsome experience reminiscent of Indian households' cherished tea traditions. Tea India's commitment to quality ensures that every cup of their CTC Assam Tea reflects the heritage and dedication rooted in its origins, offering a delightful and satisfying tea drinking ritual.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic | unknown |
Amount of Teabags | |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 16 Oz |
Davidson's Organics introduces their Organic Assam Banaspaty, a robust black tea sourced from the renowned Banaspaty Tea Estate in India. Known for its full-bodied character and distinctive malty finish, this loose leaf tea exemplifies Davidson's commitment to quality and sustainability. Certified organic and Fair Trade, Davidson's ensures that their teas are free from GMOs, harmful chemicals, and pesticides, promoting holistic health for both consumers and the environment. The tea is meticulously processed from leaf to cup, reflecting Davidson's vertically integrated approach—where they oversee every step from cultivation to packaging. Ideal for brewing at 3-5 minutes with freshly boiled water, this Assam tea offers a rich, flavorful experience suitable for any time of day. With a legacy spanning generations since 1976, Davidson's Organics remains a pioneer in delivering premium organic teas that uphold rigorous standards of taste and ethical sourcing, making it a trusted choice for tea enthusiasts seeking both quality and sustainability in their tea selections.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic |
Amount of Teabags | unknown |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 12 Oz |
Vahdam is an Indian tea brand that grows and packs its tea directly in India to ensure that you'll receive the finest and freshest tea leaves. And this Assam offers a vegetal, well-balanced flavor that will keep lingering on your palate.
Vahdam is a certified climate and plastic-neutral brand that is committed to environmental sustainability. It also donates around 1% of their revenue to support the education of tea workers' children. A few people were not that crazy about this tea, though, saying it was a little bit light for their taste.
If you prefer strong tea, we suggest using more leaves. Regardless, many buyers, including tea addicts, vouched for this tea's quality and taste. They were absolutely hooked on the fresh, slightly sweet flavor with a note of astringency. While the tea was fantastic on its own, reviewers also enjoyed it with a bit of milk and sugar.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic |
Amount of Teabags | 80 Bags |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf |
Start your day with the rich, invigorating flavor of Clipper Tea's English Breakfast Assam Blend. Crafted from premium Assam tea leaves, this classic blend offers a robust, malty taste with a smooth finish, perfect for your morning ritual or an afternoon pick-me-up. Clipper Tea is committed to sustainability, using 100% unbleached, biodegradable tea bags and ethically sourced ingredients. Whether you enjoy it with a splash of milk or a hint of honey, this organic and Fairtrade-certified tea delivers a deliciously satisfying cup every time.
Tea Type | Tea Bag |
---|---|
Organic |
Amount of Teabags | unknown |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 16 Oz |
Savor the rich, malty flavor of Numi's Organic Assam Black Tea, a premium blend crafted from full-bodied, organic black tea leaves sourced from the lush Assam region of India. Known for its bold and robust character, this loose-leaf tea is perfect for those who appreciate a strong, invigorating cup. Each sip delivers a smooth, slightly sweet finish, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic |
Amount of Teabags | |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 16 Oz |
20 Leaves Assam Loose Leaf Black Tea presents a robust and malty flavor profile that embodies the essence of traditional Assam tea. Sourced from certified organic gardens, this tea offers a deep amber liquor that delivers a rich sensory experience with hints of fruit and spice. Ideal for tea enthusiasts seeking a refined drinking experience, the loose leaf format allows the leaves to fully expand during brewing, resulting in a concentrated infusion brimming with natural flavors and remedies. Brewed at 190-210°F for 5 minutes, each cup promises a full-bodied character that distinguishes Assam teas. Brought to consumers by QTrade Teas & Botanicals, renowned for over 28 years in organic tea importation, 20 Leaves emphasizes direct-to-consumer accessibility without compromising freshness or quality, ensuring that every sip reflects the authenticity and purity of this esteemed tea variety.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic |
Amount of Teabags | unknown |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 16 Oz |
Experience the rich, bold flavors of Assam with Wagh Bakri Special International Blend tea. Sourced from the finest tea gardens in India, this premium blend offers a robust and malty taste, perfect for tea enthusiasts seeking an authentic cup of Assam tea. Each sip delivers a smooth, full-bodied flavor with a delightful aroma, making it ideal for starting your day or enjoying a relaxing afternoon break. Packaged for freshness, this tea is a must-have for anyone who appreciates the timeless tradition of high-quality Indian tea.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic | unknown |
Amount of Teabags | |
---|---|
Amount of Loose Leaf | 16 Oz |
Ahmad Tea presents their Kalami Assam Loose Leaf tea, named after the renowned tea-growing region in north-eastern India. This blend features second flush Assam tea, prized for its rich amber infusion and satisfyingly smooth texture. Celebrated with 22 Great Taste Awards, it delivers a complex flavor profile characterized by its malty undertones. Naturally caffeinated and sugar-free, Kalami Assam is a robust choice for tea enthusiasts seeking a flavorful alternative to coffee. Ahmad Tea emphasizes quality and ethical sourcing practices through their commitment to the Ethical Tea Partnership, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for tea workers and environmental stewardship. Brewed ideally for 7-10 minutes, this tea is perfect for enjoying hot, optionally enhanced with a splash of milk to complement its full-bodied character. Ahmad Tea's dedication to consistency and excellence shines through in each cup of their Kalami Assam, offering a delightful start to any day or a soothing break any time.
Tea Type | Loose Leaf |
---|---|
Organic | unknown |
If you're trying to expand your tea pantry, we have some suggestions for you! Check out the links below for some scrumptious teas that will give you a flavorful experience.
No. 1: Organic Positively Tea Company|Assam TGFOP
No. 2: Taylors of Harrogate |Taylors of Harrogate |Pure Assam Tea Bags
No. 3: Tea India|CTC Assam Tea
No. 4: Davidson's Organics|Organic Assam Banaspaty
No. 5: Vahdam|Assam Second Flush Black Tea
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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