Tea is an aromatic beverage commonly prepared by pouring hot or boiling water over cured or fresh leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. The drink originates from East Asia and is consumed worldwide. There are several types of tea, including black, green, oolong, white, and pu-erh, each undergoing different processing techniques and offering distinct flavors and aromatic nuances.
The scent profile of tea can vary greatly depending on its type and preparation:
- **Green tea** typically presents a fresh, grassy, and sometimes steamed vegetable-like aroma, occasionally with floral or nutty notes.
- **Black tea** is known for its robust, malty scents, and can also carry hints of caramel, chocolate, or spices, particularly after being oxidized more fully than other types.
- **Oolong tea** offers a complex aromatic profile that ranges from floral and fruity to woody and roasted, depending on the degree of oxidation and the style of the particular oolong.
- **White tea** is appreciated for its subtle, delicate, and lightly sweet fragrance, often reminiscent of fresh hay, mild herbs, or blossoms.
- **Pu-erh tea**, which is fermented, can have a deep, earthy aroma with rich, musty undertones and sometimes elements of mushroom or damp forest.
Tea's scent is not just a prelude to its taste but an integral part of the overall experience, enhancing the flavors perceived on the palate and contributing to its soothing, invigorating, or refreshing qualities.