bisnisrakyat.id - Indonesia is one of the largest tea producers in the world, with a heritage of tea-drinking culture that dates back centuries. Thanks to ideal geographical conditions, various types of high-quality tea are produced in a number of regions in Indonesia. Each type of tea has unique characteristics that reflect its region of origin. Here are some of Indonesia's famous tea types and their specialties.
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1. Black Tea
Black tea is the most popular type of tea in Indonesia and is often the base of many packaged tea products. It is made by full fermentation, which results in a dark red or black color to the brew. The flavor of black tea tends to be strong and rich, with a distinctive hint of bitterness. One of the famous black tea producing areas is Puncak, West Java, where the Gunung Mas tea plantation produces high-quality tea.
2. Green Tea
Indonesian green tea is also very popular, mainly due to its high antioxidant content and health benefits. Unlike black tea, green tea does not undergo a fermentation process, so the color and flavor of the leaves remain natural. West Java is one of the best green tea producing regions, with products exported to Japan and other countries. Green tea has a lighter and fresher flavor than black tea.
3. White Tea
White tea is one of the rarest and most expensive types of tea, as it is made from young tea leaf buds that have not yet fully bloomed. The processing is minimal, so it retains its natural nutritional content. Indonesian white tea is widely produced in the Central Java and West Java regions. It has a delicate taste with a distinctive floral aroma, making it a favorite for premium tea lovers.
4. Oolong Tea
Oolong tea is a semi-fermented tea that has characteristics between black tea and green tea. It has a complex flavor, often described as a blend of sweet, fresh, and slightly bitter. A well-known oolong tea producing area in Indonesia is Malabar, West Java. Oolong tea is in high demand for its distinctive aroma and health benefits, such as aiding the body's metabolism.
5. Jasmine Tea
Jasmine tea is one of the most popular types of aromatic tea in Indonesia. It is made by blending tea leaves, usually green or black tea, with fragrant jasmine flowers. Jasmine tea has a refreshing floral aroma and a naturally sweet flavor. Central Java, especially the Pekalongan and Tegal areas, is a well-known producer of jasmine tea.
6. Tubruk Tea
Tubruk tea is a traditional Indonesian style of tea serving, where tea leaves are mixed directly with hot water without the use of a strainer. Typically, tubruk tea uses black tea produced from plantations in Java. The drink is often enjoyed with sugar cubes for added sweetness. Its simplicity has made tubruk tea an integral part of Indonesians' daily lives.
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7. Wangi Gambir Tea
Wangi gambir tea is a specialty tea from West Sumatra, known for its strong spice aroma. This tea is usually made from black tea leaves mixed with gambier flowers to give it a distinctive flavor and aroma. Wangi gambir tea is often served as a traditional drink at traditional Minangkabau events.
8. Poci Tea
Poci tea is a tea from Tegal, Central Java, which is served in a clay pot to maintain the temperature and flavor of the tea. This tea usually uses black tea with a jasmine blend, and is drunk with sugar cubes. The unique aroma and taste of teapot tea makes it popular among the people of Central Java and beyond.
9. Kayu Aro Tea
Kayu Aro tea comes from the Kayu Aro tea plantation in Kerinci, Jambi. This plantation is one of the oldest tea plantations in Indonesia, even in the world. Kayu Aro tea is a high-quality black tea that is often exported to Europe. This tea has a distinctive flavor, with a sharp aroma and a smooth aftertaste.
10. Tambi Tea
Tambi tea comes from the slopes of Mount Sindoro and Sumbing, Central Java. It is a premium black tea with a delicate flavor and distinctive aroma. The traditional processing process makes Tambi tea retain its quality. Apart from being exported, Tambi tea is also a favorite in the domestic market.
The Uniqueness of Indonesian Tea
Teas from Indonesia have their own uniqueness that is influenced by geographical factors, climate, and processing methods. Many Indonesian teas are organically produced, making them a healthy choice to enjoy. In addition, tea drinking traditions in Indonesia are often associated with local culture and customs, such as teapot tea which is part of the Tegal community's tradition.
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Final Thoughts
Indonesia's rich variety of tea is not only an economic commodity, but also part of a cultural heritage that must be preserved. From black tea to jasmine tea, every cup of tea carries a story about the land it comes from and the hard work of the farmers. By continuing to support local tea production, we are not only enjoying a quality drink, but also helping to sustain the Indonesian tea industry.