Understanding Pekoe Tea: History, Flavor, and Quality

Pekoe is a type of black tea that originated in China and is now grown in many countries around the world. It is known for its strong, full-bodied flavor and is often used as a base for blended teas. Pekoe tea is made from the young leaves and buds of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are withered, rolled, oxidized, and then fired to bring out their unique flavor and aroma.

The term "pekoe" is believed to have originated in the 19th century, when tea was traded extensively between China and Europe. The name is thought to be derived from the Chinese word "bai hao," which means "white hair," and refers to the silvery downy hairs that cover the young buds of the tea plant. Pekoe tea is considered to be a high-quality tea and is often used as a benchmark for evaluating the quality of other teas.