Green tea and black tea: what is really the difference?
Both come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. What sets them apart is their processing after harvest.
Green tea is not oxidized: it retains vegetal notes and a certain freshness. Black tea is entirely oxidized — this process gives it deeper, rounder, more full-bodied aromas.
This difference has a direct impact on the taste, the color of the liquor, and above all on the tolerance for errors during infusion. Everything you need to know about the difference between black tea and green tea
Which green tea to choose to start with?
Green tea has a reputation for being delicate. But some varieties are really accessible to novices.
The Sencha is one of the best entry points. Balanced between freshness, sweetness and light vegetal notes, it remains pleasant even without experience.
Flavored green teas are another great option. Fruits, citrus fruits, flowers: these combinations soften the taste profile. The most popular, for example, remains the famous mint green tea.
For infusion: water between 70 and 80°C, two to three minutes maximum.
Which black tea to choose when you start?
Black tea is generally more accessible to start with. It better tolerates small infusion errors.
TheEarl Grey is a safe bet. Bergamot balances the power of black tea well.
Breakfast teas are structured and enveloping, perfect for the morning.
Flavored black teas (vanilla, fruit, citrus) soften the tannins while retaining character.
Green tea or black tea: which is best for a beginner?
If you're looking for something mild and refreshing, opt for a flavored green tea. If you prefer more pronounced and comforting flavors, black tea will be more suitable.
Loose or bagged tea: what to choose when you're starting out?
This is often the question that naturally follows choosing the type of tea. Sachets have the advantage of simplicity: no equipment, no dosage to calculate. They are a good introduction. The loose tea, on the other hand, generally offers higher quality — whole leaves release more flavors and result in a richer cup. With a simple tea ball or an infuser, it is nevertheless very accessible. To start, both options are valid; the important thing is to choose your variety carefully before worrying about the format.
Plain tea or flavored tea: what to choose to start with?
To start, the flavored tea is generally more suitable. The added flavors make tasting more accessible.
Over time, the palate becomes refined and we appreciate rawer and more complex teas.
Classic mistakes to avoid
The two most common mistakes: too hot water and too long an infusion. Follow the recommended temperatures and times to avoid bitterness.
The gift sets Kusmi Tea : a great way to start
If you don't yet know which tea to turn to, the gift sets tea Kusmi Tea are a particularly well-thought-out option for beginners. The idea is simple: rather than relying on a single reference, you taste several teas in small quantities, which allows you to find your preferences without commitment.
The brand offers assortments that mix green teas, black teas and flavored teas – often around large families of flavors such as citrus, vanilla or spices. Classics like BB Detox, theAnastasia or the Prince Vladimir are frequently found in these selections, and this is no coincidence: these are accessible, well-balanced teas, which speak easily to novice palates.
It's also a great gift to give — or to give yourself — to enter the world of tea with a little style.