Classic Black Tea (Zhe Xiang Hong Cha)
Zhexiang Black Tea (Classic Black Tea) from TP TEA is a black tea beverage offered by the Taiwanese tea brand TP TEA. Originating in Taiwan, this tea features carefully selected Taiwanese black tea blended with syrup made from sugarcane, achieving both the natural aroma and richness of black tea and a subtle sweetness. With the expansion of TP TEA stores, this product is available not only in Taiwan but also internationally, gaining popularity in regions such as Hong Kong—particularly at its flagship store in Central—as well as throughout Asia and Europe and North America.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- 22 Hong Kong Dollar
- Meal Date
- 9/22/2024
- Food Travel Log
- As a bubble tea lover, there’s no way I could leave Hong Kong without having at least one. So, I headed to the Taiwanese tea shop Cha Tang Hui!
This black tea can be summed up as an upgraded version of Afternoon Tea. The rich aroma, lingering pleasant bitterness, and sweet cane sugar fulfilled my cravings. Satisfied, I realized I’d made a mistake—there were no tapioca pearls in my order.
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview of TP TEA’s Zhexiang Black Tea (Classic Black Tea)
TP TEA is an authentic tea shop chain originating from Taiwan, and “Zhexiang Black Tea” (Classic Black Tea) is one of its particularly popular products. Zhexiang Black Tea is made by combining carefully selected black tea with sugarcane syrup, featuring the rich flavor of traditional Taiwanese black tea and the distinctive natural sweetness of sugarcane. TP TEA has expanded its store network not only within Taiwan but also to countries around the world in recent years, including Hong Kong, Japan, and the United States.
Characteristics and Production of Zhexiang Black Tea
“Zhexiang” refers to the aroma and sweetness derived from sugarcane, and instead of artificial sweeteners, syrup slowly brewed from sugarcane is used. This gives the sweetness a rounded and deep quality, harmonizing with the inherent astringency of black tea. Taiwanese black tea (especially those like Sun Moon Lake Black Tea) is known for tea leaves with a rich bouquet, and only carefully selected, high-quality leaves are used for Zhexiang Black Tea.
In preparation, the tea is brewed one cup at a time after the order is taken, then cooled before being poured over ice in a cup and finally finished with sugarcane syrup. While adding pearls (tapioca) is standard in Taiwanese drink culture, straight Zhexiang Black Tea without additions is also recommended to fully savor the original flavor.
Cultural Background of Sugarcane
Sugarcane has been cultivated for centuries in mild climates such as Southeast Asia, southern China, and Taiwan, where it has been used for sugar and as a traditional beverage sweetener. In Taiwan, many drinks make use of the sweetness of sugarcane, and Zhexiang Black Tea, served at markets and tea houses, offers rich flavors at an affordable price. Sugarcane syrup is milder and more flavorful than white sugar and is also gaining attention as a gentler sweetener for the body.
About TP TEA Central Flagship Shop
The TP TEA flagship store located in Central, Hong Kong, is a trendy spot popular with both tourists and locals. The interior is authentically Taiwanese in style, featuring a calm atmosphere and the use of Taiwanese-imported tea leaves and ingredients. While faithfully recreating authentic Taiwanese drink recipes, the shop allows for customization of ice and sweetness levels to accommodate local (Hong Kong) tastes and climate.
Position of Zhexiang Black Tea Among World Teas
Black tea is produced in various parts of the world—such as India, Sri Lanka, and China—and diverse styles have developed. Taiwanese black tea, similar to its renowned semi-fermented oolong tea, emphasizes fragrance and a mellow aftertaste. Zhexiang Black Tea is a drink that fuses this Taiwanese tradition with locally grown sugarcane syrup and adds a contemporary twist. While reminiscent of the elegance of British afternoon tea, the pairing with Asian-style sweetness and aroma brings a unique character to the beverage.
Health Aspects and Caffeine Content
Although Zhexiang Black Tea contains caffeine, the amount is less than that found in ordinary coffee, making it a popular choice as an afternoon refreshment. It is also said that sugarcane syrup does not spike blood sugar levels as rapidly as refined sugar. Since the amount of ice and sugar can be freely adjusted, it is also suitable for those who are health conscious.
Cultural Role and Popularity Locally
Products from TP TEA, which lead the diverse evolution of Taiwanese sweets and drinks, are highly regarded among young people and tourists in urban areas such as Hong Kong. Zhexiang Black Tea is enjoyed with meals or paired with light snacks and sweets. The luxurious branding of TP TEA, trust derived from its Taiwanese origin, and the approachable flavor of Zhexiang Black Tea together contribute to its broad appeal across diverse demographics in multicultural cities like Hong Kong.