The History of Ceylon Tea
A Journey Steeped in Time
The story of Ceylon tea begins in the misty highlands of Sri Lanka, a land once draped in coffee plantations. In the 1860s, a devastating coffee blight swept the island, leaving planters desperate for a new crop. Enter James Taylor, a Scottish pioneer who planted the first tea bushes in Loolkandura Estate in 1867.
Taylor’s success sparked a revolution, transforming Sri Lanka into a global hub for tea production. By the late 19th century, tea exports had eclipsed all expectations, earning the island its reputation as the home of the finest teas in the world.
Ceylon tea is not just a beverage but a symbol of tradition, quality, and the harmony between nature and human craftsmanship. Its distinct flavors, shaped by Sri Lanka’s diverse climates and terrains, have delighted tea lovers for over a century. Today, Ceylon tea continues to be a global ambassador of Sri Lanka, steeped in history and pride.
