|
|
|
You can get e-magazine links on WhatsApp. Click here
|
|
|
|
|
|
CTC vs. Orthodox tea: Here's everything you need to know
|
|
Wednesday, 05 January, 2022, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
|
|
Ekta Jain
|
If you are not too much of a tea enthusiast, you might have never heard that there are such ways of tea production as CTC and Orthodox.
Orthodox and CTC teas are the two popular varieties of blends in the Indian beverage market. The difference between these 2 blends basically lies in their mode of production. In fact, it is from their style of production that these blends get their names from. A majority of the tea-drinking population might wonder about what these two blends are and how their taste and quality differ from one another.
When choosing between CTC and Orthodox blends, it’s imperative to know their difference.
Orthodox and CTC black teas mainly differ in the following ways -
The difference in the Method of Processing
Orthodox tea and CTC tea are different styles of tea production or tea processing, and the main styles used in Indian tea making. Orthodox tea refers to loose leaf tea produced using traditional (orthodox) methods, which involves plucking, withering, rolling, oxidation/fermentation and drying. CTC (Crush, Tear, and Curl or Cut, Tear, and Curl) is a method of processing black tea in which tea leaves are passed through a series of cylindrical rollers with serrated blades that crush, tear, and curl the tea into small, even-shaped pellets.
Given the traditional methods used while producing Orthodox tea leaves, the process requires a large manual involvement. This tends to consume an ample amount of time making this an exclusive blend. CTC, however, is production-friendly and guarantees quality beverages at a faster rate, thereby, meeting the demand of the global tea market. The later variety makes consumption much more affordable and is available for all consumers globally.
Difference in the reason of Production
Orthodox teas are produced to preserve the singular virtues of tea leaves, which initially was the only way of making tea. On the other hand, CTC focusses on mass production bearing the quality of tea in mind to meet the growing market demand. CTC teas were introduced later for mass production to provide tea lovers with quality beverages at a faster rate and affordable price. Hence, the second variety can fulfil the increasing demand of the market. As opposed to CTC, Orthodox Tea needs greater care while handling or rolling as they are extremely delicate and are often prone to damage and contamination.
Difference in the Flavour Profile
If one opts for authenticity, orthodox teas produce a more genuine tea experience as compared to CTC tea. It offers a delicate flavour, blending all tea types making it more complex flavoured. Orthodox blends of all types – oolong, white, green or black – have a subtle flavour. CTC teas have a generic taste and give out dark, strong colours that have a distinct flavour. Orthodox tea also benefits its drinkers in positive ways, mainly beneficial for their health and wellness.
However, this isn’t very applicable in the case of CTC tea. CTC teas have an inclusive taste providing a distinct constricting flavour. That’s where CTC comes in when you want to have masala chai with some milk.
Difference in Price Tag Since Orthodox teas provide an authentic flavour, they are steeply priced in the beverage market across the globe. While CTC teas do give the right flavour, they are often much affordable.
Difference in the regions they grow Orthodox tea producing regions in India
Tea plants generally have three flushes: first, second, and third. Darjeeling is famous for its flush teas also referred to as “Champagne of Teas” because of its “muscatel” flavour. When brewed Darjeeling tea gives this light golden colour with a delicate flavour unique to itself. This blend offers such a delicate flavour that one might not hesitate to skip sugar and milk with a cup of Darjeeling tea. It tastes good as is without any additions to it.
Assam is known globally for its second flush black tea with its bold flavour perfectly blending with its almost reddish tinge to the brew and a strong taste as well. Whereas, Nilgiri tea is famous for its fruity flavours.
CTC producing regions in India
This particular type of tea is very popular in India and is majorly made by adding milk and sugar. Assam tea gardens supply majorly to the nationwide CTC tea produce throughout the year. However, apart from Assam tea gardens, the Dooars in West Bengal and some gardens of South India also contribute to the nationwide CTC production.
Final Words
Given all the aspects that differentiate them, like every coin has two sides, it might seem simple enough to put labels on the teas. Tea enthusiasts might often debate on which tea is the “better” one; however, that discussion is often left open-ended. CTC teas are great if you love black tea with milk or Indian chai but if you want to know the true taste of the tea plant itself, you ought to choose Orthodox options that have a wider range of tastes among them!
(The author is chief marketing officer, Octavius Tea)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|