In a nutshell: organic orange black tea, Assam base, 9% orange peel and natural flavoring. Brew at 212°F (100°C), 3 to 5 minutes, 12 to 15 g per liter.
Picture the scent of freshly zested orange peel curling up from a steaming cup. That is the promise of this blend from Thés & Traditions, where the malty depth of an organic Assam meets the bright, sun-warmed character of citrus.
This classic pairing is one of the great pillars of flavored tea, alongside Earl Grey and blood orange. It has stood the test of time effortlessly, carried by a rare balance between tannic body and fruity freshness. Browse all our black teas to continue the journey.
The aromatic profile of orange black tea
The foundation of this blend is an organic Assam, chosen for its roundness and gently malty character. Its leaves yield an amber, well-structured liquor that serves as the perfect canvas for the citrus note.
On the nose, the first impression is vivid and luminous: fresh orange peel, bright and inviting. On the palate, a soft, almost honeyed roundness unfolds, where the citrus melds into the richness of the black tea. The finish is long and warming, with a subtly zesty trail.
The recipe is built on simplicity: organic Assam black tea, 9% organic orange peel pieces visible among the leaves, and a natural orange flavoring that extends the fruity note without overpowering it. No unnecessary additives, just an honest meeting between a leaf and a citrus fruit.
This profile places the blend among the great flavored classics while giving it its own identity: more indulgent than a bergamot Earl Grey, softer than a blood orange tea. To compare the families, take a look at our green tea vs. black tea guide.
How to brew orange black tea
A few simple steps are all it takes to bring out the full complexity of this infusion. Water quality and steeping time make all the difference.
- Quantity: 12 to 15 g of leaves per liter of water, roughly a heaped teaspoon for a standard 8 oz cup.
- Temperature: 212°F (100°C), freshly boiled water poured straight from the kettle.
- Steeping time: 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the strength you prefer. Three minutes for a soft, fruity cup; five minutes for a fuller, more structured body.
- Accessories: a porcelain or glass teapot, with a generous infuser that allows the leaves to open fully.
This tea is best enjoyed on its own, so the citrus flavor can truly shine. Those who prefer a touch of sweetness can add a splash of plant-based milk or a drop of acacia honey, both of which complement the blend's natural roundness beautifully.
The infusion also works wonderfully as an iced tea on warm days: double the amount of leaves, brew hot, then pour immediately over ice. The result is refreshing and vivid, perfect for an afternoon break. Try our blue Earl Grey for an alternative with more floral notes.
Storage
Keep this blend in its original tin or in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and strong odors. Carefully packaged in our workshop, this blend retains its citrus aroma for up to 24 months when properly stored.
Avoid the refrigerator, which can introduce unwanted moisture, and keep the leaves well away from spices or coffee. The fresh fruit character will stay vivid, cup after cup.
Frequently asked questions
What are the benefits of orange black tea?
This blend is, above all, a tea to be savored. It offers a rich sensory experience, combining the warmth of a full-bodied black tea with the bright, sunny character of orange peel. A comforting way to start the day.
How do you brew orange black tea?
Use 12 to 15 g of leaves per liter of water at 212°F (100°C) and steep for 3 to 5 minutes. For a softer cup, stop at 3 minutes. For a more tannic body, extend to 5 minutes.
Where can I buy orange black tea?
Thés & Traditions carries this organic blend as part of our flavored black tea selection, available directly on our website. Founder Julien Huot personally selects each batch to ensure consistent quality.
What varieties of orange black tea exist?
Recipes vary widely: some use sweet orange, others blood orange or candied zest. Our version focuses on 9% organic orange peel and a natural flavoring, for a fruity, straightforward balance. You may also enjoy the top black teas according to the experts and more about black tea.
