China, the birthplace of tea , plays a central role in the history and culture of this global beverage. For millennia, tea has shaped Chinese society, economy and culture, expanding far beyond its borders to become a beverage enjoyed around the world. Here's a look at the importance of tea in China and its global influence.

Origins and History

• Legendary Discovery: According to legend, Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea in 2737 BC, when a capricious wind caused leaves from a wild tea tree to fall into its boiling water. Intrigued by the delicious scent, he tasted the infusion, thus discovering tea.
• Cultural Development: Over the centuries, tea has become a pillar of Chinese society, playing a role in religious rituals, traditional medicine and social interactions. The Tang dynasty (618-907) saw the emergence of tea as a national drink, with the publication of the first book dedicated to tea, Cha Jing (The Classic of Tea) by Lu Yu.

Varieties and Production

• Diversity: China produces all major categories of tea: green, black (known locally as red tea), white, oolong, yellow and Pu-erh. Each type undergoes a unique manufacturing process, from withering and roasting to fermentation.
• Producing Regions: Provinces such as Fujian, Yunnan, Zhejiang, and Anhui are famous for their high quality teas. Each region offers distinct climatic conditions and soils, contributing to the rich flavor profiles of Chinese teas.

Cultural and Social Impact

• Tea Ceremony: The Chinese tea ceremony, or gongfu cha , is a fine art that emphasizes the preparation and presentation of tea. It is a meditative practice that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and harmony with nature.
• Export and Global Influence: Chinese tea has played a crucial role in cultural and economic exchanges across historic trade routes, including the Silk Road. Its influence spans many cultures, inspiring tea drinking traditions across the world.

Conservation and Innovation

• Sustainable Agriculture: Faced with modern environmental challenges, China is working to promote sustainable tea growing methods, preserving traditional ecosystems while meeting growing global demand.
• Innovation: Chinese tea producers continue to innovate, developing new varieties and production techniques to enrich the global tea supply.

The relationship between China and tea is deep and complex, reflecting millennia of cultural, economic and social development. Chinese tea remains a symbol of hospitality, wisdom and communion with nature, still playing an essential role in Chinese culture and having a significant presence on the world stage.

Explore Our Collection of ÔTEKA® Organic Chinese Teas

Immerse yourself in the heart of authenticity and tradition with our exclusive selection of ÔTEKA® Organic Chinese Teas. Our teas, from the most renowned gardens in China, are the fruit of ancestral know-how and a passion for excellence. Each variety is chosen for its exceptional quality, rich history and unique flavors, reflecting the heritage and diversity of Chinese terroir.

Our range includes delicate green teas, deep and aromatic black teas, rare and subtle white teas, velvety and complex oolongs, and aged Pu-erh teas, each offering an unforgettable taste experience. ÔTEKA® Organic Chinese Teas are grown using strict organic methods, without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers, thus guaranteeing a pure, healthy and environmentally friendly product.

At ÔTEKA® , we are dedicated to preserving nature and promoting responsible consumption. This is why we work directly with local producers committed to sustainable growing practices, ensuring the traceability and integrity of each tea leaf.

Discover Dragon Well (Longjing), with its carefully flattened leaves and refreshing flavor, Black Keemun, known for its rich, slightly smoky aroma, or Imperial Jasmine, famous for its delicately scented flowers. Each tea tells a story, an invitation to explore the regions and cultures that shape the identity of Chinese tea.

Our commitment to quality and eco-responsibility is reflected in our packaging designed to preserve the freshness and subtle aromas of our teas, while minimizing our environmental impact.

Embark on a sensory journey with ÔTEKA® Organic Chinese Teas and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the Orient. Savor the richness of flavors and the depth of traditions that make our teas treasures to discover and appreciate.