Black TeaIndia

Assam Tea

MaltyBoldSweet

Assam is a full-bodied black tea from northeast India, grown in a hot river-valley climate.

Assam tea — loose leaves
Black TeaBold · Rich · Malty
Strong body
Tea TypeBlack TeaBold · Rich · Malty
OriginAssam, India
OxidationHighRoast: Low
BodyStrong
CaffeineHigh40–70 mg / cup

Flavor Profile

What does Assam taste like?

Assam is a full-bodied black tea from northeast India, grown in a hot river-valley climate. The cup is malty and robust with notes of honey, toasted grain, and dried fruit, plus enough strength to stand up to milk and sugar. Second-flush Assam adds a characteristic caramelized sweetness. It is the backbone of many breakfast blends, including English Breakfast.

Flavor NotesStrongest first
Malty5 / 5
Bold4 / 5
Sweet3 / 5
Fruity2 / 5

Bar length reflects the relative prominence of each flavor note (dominant first), not a laboratory measurement.

Origin

Assam, India

The Assam valley's low elevation and monsoon climate produce some of the world's strongest teas.

Home of Assam and Darjeeling, two of the world's most famous black teas.

Assam, India

Brewing Guide

How to Brew Assam

Tea Amount3 g
Water250 ml
Temperature95–100°C
Steep3–5 min
Re-steep1–2 times

Brewing parameters are a starting point and can be adjusted to taste.

Caffeine

Caffeine in Assam

High

Typical brewed serving

40–70mg per cup

Assam is a high-caffeine black tea. A typical brewed serving contains about 40–70 mg of caffeine.

Values can vary depending on quantity, brewing time, serving size, and preparation method.

Keep Exploring

If you like Assam

Side by Side

Want to see how Assam compares?

Put Assam next to Darjeeling and compare flavor, origin, caffeine, and brewing side by side.

FAQ

Assam Tea FAQ

Quick answers about Assam tea, drawn from its flavor, origin, caffeine, and brewing profile.

What is Assam tea?

Assam is a full-bodied black tea from northeast India, grown in a hot river-valley climate.

Does Assam tea have caffeine?

Yes. Assam is a high-caffeine tea, typically 40–70 mg per brewed serving.

What does Assam tea taste like?

Assam is known for a profile led by Malty, Bold, and Sweet, with a strong body.

How do you brew Assam tea?

Use about 3 g of tea per 250 ml of water at 95–100°C, steeping for 3–5 minutes. It can be re-steeped 1–2 times.

Is Assam tea bitter?

Bitterness is not a defining note of Assam; its profile centers on Malty, Bold, and Sweet.