Ceylon Tea Grades
What Are Ceylon Tea Grades?
Ceylon Tea grades describe the size and appearance of tea leaves after manufacture. Contrary to popular belief, a tea grade does not indicate quality. Whole-leaf, broken-leaf, fannings, and dust grades can all produce excellent tea depending on the region, manufacturing process, and brewing method. Grades simply help tea buyers understand the style and character of the tea.
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CEYLON TEA GRADES
Orange Pekoe (OP)
Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF)
Orange Pekoe 1 (OP1)
Orange Pekoe is a whole-leaf black tea grade consisting of long, wiry leaves. Despite its name, Orange Pekoe contains no orange flavour. It is prized for its elegant appearance, bright liquor, and smooth flavour.
Tea Character: Light to medium-bodied, aromatic, and refreshing.
Orange Pekoe 1 (OP1)
Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF)
Orange Pekoe 1 (OP1)
OP1 is a premium whole-leaf grade featuring longer and more uniform leaves than standard OP. Carefully manufactured OP1 teas are highly valued by loose-leaf tea enthusiasts for their appearance and refined drinking experience.
Tea Character: Delicate, smooth, and well-balanced.
Broken Orange Pekoe (BOP)
Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF)
Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF)
BOP consists of smaller leaf particles created during the manufacturing process. These teas brew more quickly and produce a stronger liquor, making them popular for everyday tea drinking and breakfast blends.
Tea Character: Bright, brisk, and full-flavoured.
Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF)
Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF)
Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings (BOPF)
BOPF contains smaller particles than BOP and is commonly used in tea bags. It infuses quickly and produces a rich colour and strong flavour.
Tea Character: Strong, robust, and quick brewing.
Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP)
Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP)
Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP)
FBOP grades contain young leaf tips, often referred to as "tips," which add visual appeal and complexity to the tea. These grades are commonly associated with premium orthodox teas.
Tea Character: Aromatic, smooth, and elegant.
Pekoe (P)
Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP)
Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP)
Pekoe teas are made from shorter, slightly curled leaves. The grade produces a medium-bodied liquor with a pleasant balance of strength and flavour.
Tea Character: Smooth and well-rounded.
Dust Grades
Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP)
Tea Lover's Tip
Dust grades consist of very small tea particles that brew rapidly and produce a strong liquor. They are widely used in commercial tea bags and catering blends where quick infusion is important.
Tea Character: Strong, dark, and full-bodied.
Tea Lover's Tip
Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe (FBOP)
Tea Lover's Tip
Tea grades describe the appearance of the leaf, while tea-growing regions influence flavour and character. By understanding both, tea lovers can discover the styles, aromas, and strengths that best suit their personal taste.
Finding Your Perfect Ceylon Tea
Which tea should I choose?
Not all Ceylon Teas are the same. Understanding tea-growing regions and tea grades can help you select a tea that matches your personal preference, whether you enjoy a delicate cup or a strong, full-bodied brew.
Preference
Light, delicate and aromatic
Smooth and well-balanced
Rich and full-bodied
Strong breakfast tea
Strong tea with milk
Whole-leaf tea experience
Quick brewing and strong colour
Recommended Region
High Grown
Mid Grown
Low Grown
Low Grown
Low Grown
High or Mid Grown
Any Region
Recommended Grade
OP / OP1
OPA / BOP
BOP / FBOP
BOPF
Dust
OP / OP1
BOPF / Dust