Orthodox tea from Munnar is known for its rich aroma, full-bodied flavor, and handcrafted feel. Its processing involves traditional methods where tea leaves are carefully plucked, rolled, oxidized, and dried to preserve their natural character. Many tea lovers prefer orthodox teas because they carry the true essence of the tea leaf, and Munnar’s cool climate and high elevation make the results even more unique. This guide explains each step of how orthodox tea from Munnar is processed in simple words so anyone can understand, even if they are new to tea.
Along the way, you will also learn how delicate teas like White tea in Kerala and White tea in Munnar differ from orthodox tea, and how special variants such as Signature tea in Kerala and Signature tea in Munnar follow their own careful crafting methods.
What Makes Munnar Orthodox Tea Special?
Munnar’s hills sit at just the right altitude for tea cultivation. The cool air allows the leaves to grow slowly, which naturally deepens their flavor. When these leaves are processed using the long-established orthodox method, they retain their natural oils, freshness, and distinctive aroma.
Orthodox tea is crafted by skilled tea makers, not machines alone. Every step requires observation, timing, and understanding of leaf behaviour. This traditional approach gives the tea its signature character.
The Orthodox Tea Processing Method in Munnar
1. Hand Plucking of Tender Leaves
Orthodox tea begins with selective hand plucking. Only the top bud and two young leaves are picked. This ensures the finest quality since these leaves contain the highest concentration of natural compounds.
Plucking is usually done early in the morning when the temperature is cool, keeping the leaves fresh until they reach the factory.
2. Withering: Softening the Leaf
Withering is the first major step once the leaves arrive at the factory.
What happens during withering?
The leaves are spread out on large troughs where cool air is passed over them. This removes excess moisture and softens the leaves so they can be rolled without breaking.
Withering also begins the early stages of flavor development. Tea makers check the leaves regularly to ensure they reach the right level of flexibility.
3. Rolling: Shaping and Releasing Natural Juices
Rolling is where orthodox tea gets its well-known twisted leaf shape.
Why rolling matters
During rolling, the leaves are gently twisted using traditional machinery. This breaks the cell walls to release the natural juices and enzymes inside the leaf. These juices are important for oxidation—the process that changes the leaf into black tea.
The rolling step also helps define the tea’s body and aroma.
4. Oxidation: Developing Color and Flavor
This is the most crucial stage of orthodox tea processing.
How oxidation works
Once rolled, the leaves are placed in a cool, humid room where the oxygen in the air reacts with the leaf enzymes. This natural reaction turns the leaves darker and develops the familiar color and flavor of black tea.
Tea makers carefully control oxidation time. Too little results in a weak tea; too long creates bitterness.
Munnar’s climate helps achieve a balanced, fragrant oxidized tea.
5. Drying: Locking in the Aroma
After oxidation, the leaves must be dried immediately to stop the reaction and lock in their flavor.
The drying process uses controlled hot air to reduce moisture levels. When done correctly, the tea becomes crisp and shelf-stable while preserving its character.
6. Sorting and Grading
Once dried, the tea is sorted into grades based on size and appearance. Larger whole leaves are often considered premium grades, while smaller leaves and dust are used for stronger brews.
Orthodox tea grades are known for their clarity and refined taste.
7. Packaging for Freshness
Finally, the tea is packed carefully to protect it from moisture, heat, and aroma loss. Good packaging keeps the tea as fresh as the day it was processed.
How Orthodox Tea Differs from White and Signature Teas
Orthodox tea undergoes full processing, while teas like white tea follow minimal steps and retain a very delicate flavour. To explore more about it, you can look into White tea in Kerala or White tea in Munnar to understand how white tea is carefully crafted using only young buds.
Signature teas, on the other hand, can be curated blends or special variations unique to a region. Brands often introduce Signature tea in Kerala and Signature tea in Munnar for tea lovers seeking something different. These signature teas may use selective leaves, unique processing styles, or distinct flavour balancing.
Why Munnar Orthodox Tea Stands Out
Munnar’s weather, soil, and elevation create leaves that respond beautifully to orthodox processing. Hand-plucked leaves, traditional rolling methods, expert oxidation control, and careful grading all contribute to the tea’s naturally rich taste. Whether brewed lightly or strong, orthodox tea from Munnar brings out a flavour that feels authentic and rooted in nature.
If you want to truly understand how orthodox tea from Munnar tastes beyond just the process, explore freshly crafted teas from trusted local makers. Visit Jomga Tea to discover premium orthodox varieties, handpicked and traditionally processed in the heart of Munnar’s tea gardens. Experience tea the way it was meant to be—pure, aromatic, and crafted with care.
FAQs
1. What is orthodox tea?
Orthodox tea is tea processed using traditional methods that involve hand plucking, rolling, oxidation, and drying. This approach preserves natural flavor and aroma.
2. Why is Munnar famous for orthodox tea?
Munnar’s climate and high elevation help tea leaves grow slowly, which enhances flavor and aroma during processing.
3. What makes orthodox tea different from CTC tea?
Orthodox tea is rolled gently for whole-leaf teas, while CTC tea is machine-crushed into small granules and brews stronger, brisker tea.
4. How long does orthodox tea processing take?
The entire process—from plucking to packing—can take several hours to a full day depending on weather and oxidation requirements.
5. Does orthodox tea have more flavor?
Yes, orthodox tea usually has richer, layered flavors because the whole leaf is preserved during processing.
6. Is orthodox tea healthier?
Orthodox tea retains more natural compounds and antioxidants, making it a wholesome option for daily consumption.
7. Are white teas and orthodox teas processed the same way?
No. White tea undergoes minimal processing, while orthodox tea goes through rolling, oxidation, and drying.
8. Are signature teas made using orthodox methods?
Some signature teas use orthodox processing, while others may follow special crafting methods depending on the blend or leaf type.