If black tea feels too strong and the bitterness of green tea isn't quite your thing, white tea could be an alternative worth exploring.
"It surprises you with its understated mildness," says Kyra Schaper from the German Tea Association.
White tea is made from young shoots and undergoes only minimal processing. Schaper describes its typical characteristics as subtle, slightly sweet, fresh with floral notes and gentle colour.
And it also offers some health benefits. Due to its minimal processing, white tea contains high levels of antioxidants such as catechins and polyphenols.
Compared to unfermented green tea, white tea is lightly fermented and contains fewer tannins. "And its caffeine content is lower too," adds Schaper.
Boiling water can destroy the delicate aromas and valuable nutrients of white tea. Experts recommend using water heated to around 70-80 degrees Celsius.
For beginners, a few classic varieties offer an accessible starting point.
Pai Mu Tan, from China's Fujian province, is known for its soft, floral profile. Shou Mei has a slightly stronger, fuller taste, while Silver Needle - made from unopened buds - is prized for its refined, almost silky character.
However, anyone wishing to try it should be aware that it has a reputation for being an acquired taste. "Love at first sip is rare with white tea, but lifelong relationships often follow," Schaper says. – dpa
