In my quest to discover the best English breakfast tea, I’ve spent months tasting and discussing various brands, from household names to lesser-known gems.
From last December till now, our local tea club and I have embarked on a delightful journey, exploring the rich and robust world of English breakfast tea.
We’ve steeped, sipped, and savored, scribbling notes and sharing thoughts to bring you this comprehensive guide.
Get ready because we’re about to dive into the enticing realm of English breakfast teas, where tradition meets flavor in a cup!
Let’s spill the tea, shall we?
The 7 Best English Breakfast Tea 2023
Yorkshire Tea Bags
What I like:
- Strong, robust flavor
- Versatile strength levels
- Convenient for quick brewing
- Good value for money
- Timely delivery from seller
What I don’t like:
- Non-resealable packaging
- It can get stewed quickly
Check price at Amazon.
After many mornings with Yorkshire Tea Bags, I can affirm that it lives up to its regional and worldwide reputation. The initial sip delivers a bold, unmistakably Yorkshire flavor, adored by avid tea enthusiasts like myself. Be cautious not to oversteep it; unless you seek a strong brew, remove the tea bag promptly.
The versatility of Yorkshire Tea truly shines if you prefer weaker or even builders tea – it does it all, catering to a broad spectrum of taste preferences. I also appreciate the convenience it offers. Just pop a tea bag into a cup of hot water, and voilà – a lovely brew ready to accompany you through your work breaks or busy mornings.
While I’m enamored with the tea, the packaging could be improved. The lack of a resealable bag means you’ll need a large container or a tight clip to keep the best breakfast tea bags fresh once opened. Despite this, the quality of the tea and its value for money make it a worthwhile purchase, especially if you choose to subscribe and save.
Purchasing from a trusted seller, I’ve always had a pleasant experience, often receiving my order sooner than expected. With competitive pricing, Yorkshire Tea Bags have earned a spot on my subscription list, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to any English breakfast tea aficionado.
Read More:
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- Top 13 Best English Breakfast Tea Benefits & Side Effects
Best english breakfast tea brand – Twinings of London English Breakfast Tea
What I like:
- Versatility in brewing methods.
- Retains full flavor on large brew settings.
- Delicious with or without additives.
What I don’t like:
- Requires a specific brewer for best results.
I remember when I first encountered Twinings of London English Breakfast Tea in March and was at the office, needing a kick-start to a particularly challenging workday. The unique blend of tea from Kenya, Malawi, and Assam caught my attention, each contributing its unique qualities to the overall taste.
The Kenyan and Malawian teas brought a briskness and coppery-red color, while Assam gave the tea a full-bodied and robust flavor.
I found the Twinings tea particularly compatible with my Keurig machine. The convenience of a single-serve brewer is perfect for those hectic office mornings. Whether I selected the 6 oz or 8 oz brew button, the tea always maintained its optimal flavor. For a bold brew, I discovered that using the bold brew setting allowed for longer contact time, resulting in a more intense tea experience.
There was something particularly impressive about this tea’s ability to retain its full and flavorful nature even when brewed on the largest cup setting of my Keurig. I have taken to drinking it hot, over ice, sometimes with a little sugar or cream, and it never disappoints.
One unexpected discovery was how delightful this tea tastes even when no sweeteners or creamers are added. I recall how a friend had mistaken a tea pod for a coffee one, and the result was a pleasant surprise. The tea’s wonderful aroma filled the room, and the taste was just as pleasing.
Best organic English breakfast tea – Taylors of Harrogate English Breakfast Tea
What I liked:
- Invigorating aroma
- Full-bodied flavor
- Wonderful with cream and sugar
What I didn’t like:
- Non-individually wrapped teabags
- Teabags sticking together
- Not as fresh as individually wrapped variants
Taylors of Harrogate’s English Breakfast Tea is a flavor-packed brew with a robust aroma. It’s excellent with cream and sugar, reminiscent of milk tea.
Upon tasting, the tea held to its aromatic promise, delivering a full-bodied flavor that was nothing short of comforting. Adding cream and sugar to the mix resulted in a taste that reminded me of a milk tea from a boba store, hitting the spot in a truly unique way. The flavor was so good that I often used two tea bags, further intensifying the flavor profile.
However, my admiration for the tea was somewhat dampened when I encountered the packaging. To my disappointment, the 50 teabags were not individually wrapped or protected, causing them to stick together. It was a stark contrast from the individually wrapped teabags I was accustomed to with other Taylors of Harrogate teas, such as their Earl Grey.
In a blind taste test between these non-wrapped Taylors’ teas and their individually wrapped counterparts, I found the latter distinctly better. The individually wrapped teabags retained the tea’s freshness better, enhancing the flavor. This led me to conclude that it was worth paying more for better-tasting, individually wrapped teabags.
Although I don’t favor this tea as much, everyone on my team adores it, showing that tea preferences can be quite subjective.
Best English breakfast tea loose leaf – Bigelow American Breakfast Black Bags
What I Like:
- Individually wrapped for peak freshness
- The delicious, distinctive flavor
- Gluten-free, calorie-free, and Kosher Certified
- Great for group outings
What I Don’t Like:
- It could use more cinnamon flavor
Is there a tea that could turn any regular day into a delightful one? The Bigelow American Breakfast Black Tea Bags do just that. This tea is not just a beverage for me; it’s a sublime experience.
The first thing I noticed about this English breakfast tea best brands was its packaging. Each tea bag comes individually wrapped in foil pouches, ensuring peak flavor, freshness, and aroma wherever I go. I found this particularly impressive, and as a gluten-free, calorie-free, and Kosher Certified product, it’s a versatile choice.
The taste? Delicious is my favorite. I buy 10 boxes at a time and finish them in just a few months. The flavor of this English breakfast loose leaf tea is so distinctive that it stands out even when adding a vanilla coffee creamer splash. I can say that this tea can make a bad day better and a good day even “better”!
One of the unique experiences I’ve had with this tea is mixing the caffeinated and decaffeinated versions in a mug. The result? A robust blend that’s strong and fresh tasting. The only downside I found was the cinnamon flavor, which could be more pronounced than other brands. But that’s a minor preference.
In a group outing, this is the preferred tea for brewing. Its rich flavor and aroma bring a sense of satisfaction and camaraderie, making every sip a shared experience.
Clipper Organic English Breakfast
What I Like:
- The rich, fragrant flavor
- Eco-friendly tea bags
- Versatility as hot or iced tea
What I Don’t Like:
- Higher cost compared to other English breakfast tea brands
Having tried a variety of teas from around the world, Clipper Tea stands out in terms of taste and sustainability. This English Breakfast variety provides a rich, fragrant flavor without any unpleasant aftertaste. It’s not just a breakfast beverage – it’s a tea I want to savor throughout the day.
Every teabag is individually wrapped, ensuring optimal freshness and flavor. I also appreciate their commitment to the environment; the tea bags are unbleached, plant-based, and fully biodegradable. As a tea lover who’s also eco-conscious, this is a big plus for me.
The brewing process is quick and simple. Using freshly boiled water, pour over the tea bag and steep for 3-5 minutes resulting in an outstanding flavor. For a refreshing twist, I occasionally enjoy this as iced tea in the mornings.
However, the price point is high. While the taste and eco-friendly aspects are commendable, the cost may only fit some people’s budget. I’ve had other English Breakfast teas that are more affordable, albeit with less attention to environmental factors.
The Republic of Tea British Breakfast Tea
What I Like:
- Robust, rich flavor
- Versatile use hot or cold
- Health-friendly credentials
- Beautiful packaging
What I Don’t Like:
- Labeling issue on Amazon
The Republic of Tea’s British Breakfast Tea has a special place in my daily routine. This robust blend of the finest black tea leaves is a delightful way to start the day or for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
The tea hails from diverse origins, including Assam, Sri Lanka, Darjeeling, and Africa, creating a rich, full-bodied flavor profile that I find absolutely divine. I typically enjoy it with a dash of milk, which beautifully complements the tea’s decadent notes.
What I appreciate about this tea is its commitment to health and wellness. It’s gluten-free, sugar-free, carb-free, Non-GMO, and Kosher certified. This leaves me free to enjoy my tea without any health-related worries.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this tea is combining it with Blood Orange Tea and a hint of cinnamon. The result? An invigorating, warming brew that is pure bliss in a cup. But this tea isn’t just for the cold months.
Its smooth, non-bitter character makes it perfect for iced tea as well. I’ve even experimented with using it as a base for my homemade kombucha, and the result was flavorful and refreshing.
The packaging also deserves a mention. The tea comes in a pretty, airtight container that has earned a permanent spot on my kitchen counter. It keeps the tea fresh while adding a touch of elegance to my kitchen decor.
However, I did experience a hiccup while ordering this tea from Amazon. The label on the can mentioned British Breakfast, but the contents turned out to be a different type of tea. This happened to me three times. A minor inconvenience but worth noting for potential buyers.
Harney & Sons English Breakfast Loose Leaf Tea
What I liked:
- Full-bodied, rich flavor
- Health-conscious blend
- Versatile for mixing
- Attractive packaging
What I didn’t like:
- Labeling issue on Amazon
The Republic of Tea British Breakfast Tea – Each cup I brewed was like an aromatic journey, oozing with a richness that only a high-quality tea can provide.
The variety of leaves in this blend originates from Assam, Sri Lanka, Darjeeling, and Africa. This exotic fusion of teas added a global twist to my morning routine. Adding a dash of milk opened up the decadent flavors, truly allowing the tea to shine.
What gave me, even more comfort was that this tea is gluten, sugar, and carb-free, non-GMO, and Kosher certified. Finding the best loose leaf English breakfast tea that is as health-conscious as delicious is a relief.
To add my personal touch, I experimented by combining this tea with Blood Orange Tea and a piece of a cinnamon stick. The result? A burst of flavor that was simply delightful! The tea also has a smooth, non-bitter taste that I found refreshing whether served hot or cold.
An interesting aspect of this tea was its bright, sunburst orange color. It also made a fantastic base for my homemade kombucha, enhancing its flavor remarkably.
The packaging was another charming feature. The airtight container keeps the tea fresh and adds a touch of elegance to my kitchen counter with its aesthetically pleasing design.
However, there was a slight hiccup with the labeling on Amazon, which they need to address. Despite the can being labeled British Breakfast, I received different types of tea thrice. Nevertheless, the tea’s quality made up for this inconvenience.
The tea was such a hit that my friend Henry, a member of my tea-tasting group, bought a batch during his business trip last May.
How to choose Your English Breakfast Tea
Here are some key aspects I’ve learned to consider when selecting your ideal English Breakfast tea.
Loose Leaf vs. Tea Bags
This choice largely depends on your lifestyle and taste preferences. Loose leaf teas have always been my go-to due to their richer, fresher flavor. However, on hectic mornings when I’m running against the clock, nothing beats the convenience of a tea bag. My suggestion? Keep both on hand to suit different occasions.
Checking Flavor Profiles
English Breakfast tea can vary significantly in taste, depending on the blend of leaves used.
Over time, I’ve learned to savor and recognize the distinctive notes from different regions, from Assam’s robust, malty flavor to Keemun’s dark, smoky taste.
The Brand Reputation Importance
Regarding brands, reputation matters; higher-rated brands tend to ensure better quality. I’ve been a long-time fan of Twinings and Taylors of Harrogate, as they consistently deliver excellent teas. However, I also enjoy discovering lesser-known brands for a fresh experience.
How is Geography important in English Breakfast Tea?
Geography plays a pivotal role in the distinct flavors of English Breakfast tea. Let’s tour around the globe to explore this fascinating aspect.
China’s Influence
China, with its vast tea estates, plays a crucial role in shaping the character of English Breakfast tea. Particularly, the Keemun black tea from China adds a unique dark and smoky flavor to the blend. It’s like a cozy, smoky fireplace on a chilly day.
India’s Role
India, another tea titan, has its imprint on our special blend. The robust Assam tea, with its strong flavor and smooth aftertaste, brings a richness that’s hard to ignore. Think of it as the hearty backbone of your English Breakfast tea.
Kenya’s Contribution
Next, we travel to Kenya. While less famous than the other tea-producing regions, it brings an undeniable strength to the blend. Kenyan teas are strong and slightly more bitter, catering to those who prefer a punchier cup. It’s the bold friend who always speaks their mind.
Sri Lanka’s Contribution
Last but not least, Sri Lanka is known for its Ceylon teas. These teas add a slightly nutty and citrus-like flavor, bringing a refreshing lightness and golden hue. It’s like a dash of morning sunlight in your cup.
Ultimately, English Breakfast tea is a beautiful symphony of flavors worldwide. Each region adds its special note, creating a harmonious delight to our senses. Enjoy your journey through these wonderful lands with every sip!
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FAQs
What brand of English breakfast tea do the British drink?
The British enjoy brands like Twinings and Taylors of Harrogate for their English breakfast tea. These brands provide a rich and balanced blend that is well-loved in British households. Whether for a comforting start to the day or a midday pick-me-up, these brands are a go-to for many tea enthusiasts in the UK.
What tea is most like for English Breakfast?
Irish Breakfast tea is similar to English Breakfast tea, both robust, full-bodied black tea blends. However, English Breakfast tea often has a more balanced flavor profile, while Irish Breakfast tea leans towards a stronger, more malty flavor, often due to a higher proportion of Assam tea leaves in the blend.
What brand of tea does the royal family drink?
While the royal family’s exact tea preferences are not publicly disclosed, Twinings has held the Royal Warrant for tea from Queen Victoria since 1837. Twinings may be a favored brand within the royal household, and their classic English Breakfast tea could be a staple at the royal tea table.
What brand is British afternoon tea?
British afternoon tea is more about the tradition than the specific brand. However, the best English breakfast tea brands like Fortnum & Mason, Twinings, and Harney & Sons are often associated with the refined experience of British afternoon tea due to their high-quality tea blends, including the classic English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and Darjeeling.
I’m Shanna, creator of Spiritea Drinks. I’m all about teaching people to grow their own food, tea, cook what they harvest, and eat with the seasons.