Zealong's Unique Terrior
Much like wine, tea takes on taste characteristics of the environment it grows in. This includes factors like air quality, water quality, temperature, humidity, rainfall seasonality and amount, soil composition, drainage, and much much more.
If you've ever been to New Zealand, you know how relatively untouched the land is, boasting one of the lowest population densities in the world. Everyone who has been there will resonate with the description of pure.
Visitors will also be aware of the local geology, presenting a unique and rich volcanic laden soil which helps improve drainage and reduces the need for fertilizing.
Furthermore, unique even in New Zealand is the Waikato river valley. With a temperature that is just a touch cooler than the common tea production areas, New Zealand planted Camellia sinensis must really focus its energy on the annual growth. The valley also enjoys a regular fog, which helps create just the right moisture profile for the plant to thrive.
While people all over the world have long been familiar with the common taste profiles produced by large tea producing countries such as China and India, New Zealand tea is the new kid on the block, relatively speaking. Though much smaller and newer, it is holding its own in head to head tea competitions and producing taste profiles that no other place on earth is able to produce. Don't take our word for it though, try a cup for yourself!
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