Chances are you’ve never heard of Punjana Tea unless you’ve spent time in Northern Ireland. But although it’s virtually unknown outside the region, inside it it’s the most popular brand of tea. And there’s a good reason for that! In our Berlin Store it’s a particular favourite with those who like their tea good and strong, and this reputation for robustness is well-deserved.
Punjana Tea, produced by Thompson’s Family Teas, is a full-bodied black tea blend that stands out for its rich flavour and deep connection to Northern Ireland’s tea traditions. If you’ve never heard of it, you’re in for a treat!
What Is Punjana Tea?
Punjana Tea is a blend of some of the finest teas sourced from Assam and East Africa, regions known for their strong, malty black teas. These varieties are carefully blended to produce a bold, smooth tea, with just the right balance of strength and flavour to make it a favorite among tea drinkers who appreciate a hearty brew.
Punjana is a traditional black tea, meaning it’s made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are fully oxidised to give the tea its deep amber color and rich taste.
Where does Punjana Tea Come From?
Punjana Tea has its roots in Belfast, where it has been produced since 1896. Thompson’s Family Teas have been crafting tea for over 125 years, with each generation passing down the art of tea blending, maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality. The name “Punjana”, with its Indian connotations, reflects the brand’s dedication to sourcing tea from the renowned Assam region.
What varieties of tea are in Punjana Tea?
The secret to Punjana’s distinctive flavor lies in its blend of two key regions: Assam and East Africa. Assam, located in northeastern India, produces tea leaves that are rich, malty, and full-bodied, providing the base for the blend. East African teas, particularly from Kenya, are known for their bright, brisk qualities, which give Punjana its lively edge. Together, these regions create a tea that is both rich and refreshing.
How is Punjana Tea made?
The production process of Punjana Tea begins with careful sourcing from the finest tea estates in Assam and East Africa. Once harvested, the tea leaves are given time to ferment fully, a crucial step in the creation of quality black tea. This oxidation process allows the leaves to develop the bold, robust flavors that black tea is known for. After oxidation, the leaves are carefully dried and blended to Thompson’s precise specifications. The result is a tea that strikes a perfect balance between strength and smoothness, with each cup delivering a consistent flavour profile.
What does Punjana Tea taste like?
If you enjoy a strong, flavourful tea, Punjana is just the ticket. It has a deep, malty flavor with a slightly sweet undertone, typical of high-quality Assam teas. The addition of East African teas brings a crisp, refreshing finish, making it ideal for those who enjoy their tea with a splash of milk or even on its own. The brew is robust without being overwhelming, offering a perfect morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat. With every cup, you can expect the same satisfying, rich flavor that has made it a favorite in Irish households for decades.
While Punjana may not have the global recognition of some larger tea brands, it has a loyal following in Ireland and beyond. It’s a tea for those who appreciate tradition and quality. In Northern Ireland, it has become something of a cultural staple, often associated with comfort, home, and hospitality. You’ll likely find it in many homes across the region, where it’s enjoyed during daily tea breaks or shared with guests as a warm welcome.
