Ceylon tea is tea that is grown in Sri Lanka (which was known as Ceylon before 1972). The black tea has a crisp aroma reminiscent of citrus, and is used both unmixed and in blends. It is grown on numerous estates, which vary in altitude and taste. Ceylon is renowned for its high-quality teas and as Sri Lanka is the 3rd biggest tea producing country. Ceylon tea is divided into three groups: High or Upcountry (Adawatte), Mid country (Medawatte), and Low country (Yatawatte) tea, based on the geography of the land on which it is grown. The plantations started by the British were initially taken over by the government in the 1960s but have since been privatized and are now run by 'plantation companies' which own a few 'estates' or tea plantations.

Top grades of whole leaf teas:
OP (Orange Pekoe): Long thin, wiry leaf sometimes containing tip. Liquors are light or pale in colour.
Pek (Pekoe); Leaves are shorter and not so wiry as OP, but the liquor is generally darker.

BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe): A highly regarded grade of broken leaf. It is much smaller the other leaf grades and contains tip. The liquor has good colour and style.

"A selection of top teas from renowned estates..highly recommended" - Pietro V Rome