Ceylon Silver Tips

About this tea

Ceylon Silver Tips represents Sri Lanka's exceptional contribution to the white tea world, produced in limited quantities in the high-altitude gardens of Nuwara Eliya and Dimbula. Introduced in the 1990s as Ceylon tea estates diversified beyond traditional black tea production, this rare white has quickly gained recognition among connoisseurs for its distinctive character shaped by Sri Lanka's unique terroir - volcanic soil, tropical climate, and elevations exceeding 6,000 feet.

Production follows exacting standards: only the unopened silver buds are hand-plucked at dawn when dew still clings to the leaves, requiring skilled pluckers to harvest just 100-200 grams per day. The high-altitude environment creates slower growth, concentrating flavors and producing longer, more elegant buds than lowland teas. Processing involves controlled indoor withering for 24-36 hours followed by gentle drying, preserving the distinctive silvery-white appearance and delicate compounds. Annual production rarely exceeds a few hundred kilograms.

The flavor profile reflects Sri Lanka's unique growing conditions: an immediate honey-like sweetness balanced by distinctive pine and citrus notes characteristic of high-altitude Ceylon teas. There's a crisp, almost minty quality with hints of tropical fruit - passion fruit and guava - not found in Chinese whites. The tea produces a pale golden liquor with exceptional clarity and a silky, almost creamy mouthfeel. Extended steeping reveals subtle spice notes reminiscent of Ceylon's famous cinnamon.

Brewing recommendations: Use 1 heaping teaspoon (4g) per 250ml cup with water at 90°C (195°F), steeping for 3-4 minutes. The robust highland character handles slightly higher temperatures than delicate Chinese whites. For gongfu style, use 3-4 grams with short infusions. This tea rewards multiple infusions, easily yielding 5-6 steepings with evolving flavors.

Best enjoyed when you can appreciate its unique Ceylon character - different from Chinese whites yet equally refined. Pairs beautifully with Sri Lankan sweets, tropical fruits, coconut-based desserts, and light seafood. Also excellent with honey cakes and afternoon tea service. The slightly higher caffeine content (25mg) provides gentle morning energy. Limited availability makes this a special occasion tea worth savoring slowly.