Black Tea
in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka produces some of the world's finest black tea, cultivated across three distinct elevation zones that each impart unique flavour characteristics. As one of the leading tea exporters in Sri Lanka, Ceylon Tea Land offers the complete range of orthodox black tea grades, from the brisk, aromatic BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe) to the full-bodied BOPF (Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings) and the elegant wiry-leaf OP (Orange Pekoe).

Our black tea is sourced from Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Uva, and Sabaragamuwa regions, each recognised for their distinctive terroir. High-grown teas above 4,000 ft produce the most delicate, golden liquors with exceptional aroma, while mid- and low-grown teas deliver the robust body and malty sweetness preferred in many international markets. Learn more about Ceylon tea elevations and history.

Orthodox Black Tea Grades We Export

Ceylon black tea is graded by leaf size and style of manufacture. Each grade produces a distinctly different cup character:

• OP (Orange Pekoe): Long, wiry whole leaves that produce a light, aromatic golden liquor with subtle floral notes.
• BOP (Broken Orange Pekoe): Broken leaf grade with brisk character, full body, and a rich amber cup. The most versatile export grade.
• BOPF (Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings): Smaller cut leaves producing a quick-brewing, strong infusion. Ideal for tea bag manufacturing.
• Pekoe: Tightly rolled leaves yielding a clean, balanced cup with medium body and smooth finish.
• FBOP / FBOPF: Flowery grades containing golden tips, offering a premium cup with enhanced aroma and sweetness.
• Dust: Fine-particle grade producing a very strong, deeply coloured cup. Popular in CTC-style markets.

Elevation-Based Flavour Profiles

The flavour of Ceylon black tea is directly shaped by the altitude at which it is grown. High-grown teas from Nuwara Eliya and Uva (above 4,000 ft) are prized for their delicate, complex character with bright citrus and floral undertones. Mid-grown teas from Kandy and Dimbula (2,000 to 4,000 ft) offer a well-rounded, malty body with good colour. Low-grown teas from Sabaragamuwa and Ruhuna (below 2,000 ft) produce strong, dark liquors with a robust, full flavour ideal for breakfast blends.

Processing and Quality Assurance

All our black teas are manufactured using the traditional orthodox method, which preserves the leaf's natural essential oils and produces a more complex, nuanced flavour compared to CTC (crush-tear-curl) processing. Every batch is tasted by our in-house tea tasters and must pass Sri Lanka Tea Board quality inspections before export, ensuring the authenticity and purity that the Lion Logo guarantee represents.

Beyond black tea, we also offer pure green tea from Sri Lanka and aromatic flavoured tea blends. Whether you need bulk supply or custom tea branding in Sri Lanka, our master blenders can craft the perfect profile for your market.