7 Best Scottish Tea Brands To Try

Are you a fervent tea drinker? If yes? If so, this article will recommend the ideal beverage for the day. To learn more about Scottish breakfast teas, read the full article.

multiple cups with different types of tea and milk
Photo by Joanna Kosinska / Unsplash

Early in the 1600s, tea was formally introduced to Scotland. We must credit Mary of Modena, the Duchess of York, for this. Later in history, many Scots relocated to Sri Lanka or India to manage tea estates.

What is Scottish breakfast tea?

A mixture of various black teas is typically used to make Scottish breakfast tea. Usually, an Assam, Ceylon, and Kenyan tea blend is used to make this tea.

The most well-known blend of Kenyan, Indian, and Sri Lankan teas is produced by the company Taylors of Harrogate and is known as a Scottish breakfast tea.

Scottish breakfast tea is ideal for starting your day because it tends to be a little stronger and fuller-bodied than other black teas. Scottish breakfast tea can be savored alone or with milk and sugar.

What is Scottish-grown Camelia sinensis tea?

The Camellia sinensis is a small tree or bush with branches that rise only 20 to 30 cm off the ground and that maintains its green leaves all year long. The plant is primarily grown for its young leaves, despite the fact that its tiny white or pink flowers are attractive to the eye.

According to legend, an emperor was boiling water in his garden when a leaf from the Camellia sinensis plant fell into his pot by accident.

At that time, the tea plant had not yet been discovered. Prior to becoming the well-known beverage we know today, tea was initially used in China as a medicine and then in trade.

The Camellia sinensis plant is the source of many popular tea varieties. Camellia sinensis, a plant native to China and North-East India, has a long history and a few unique growing areas that result in various tea flavors.

Difference between Scottish-grown Camelia sinensis tea and Scottish Breakfast teas

Scottish-grown Camelia sinensis- Due to Scotland's soft water, Scottish-grown camelia sinensis is usually the strongest of the bunch. Teas from China, Assam, Ceylon, Africa, and/or Indonesia are possible inclusions.

Scottish Breakfast Tea- Rich in body and flavor. Originally a black tea from China, but now frequently contains a significant amount of Ceylon tea. Includes teas from Indonesia, Africa, and/or Assam, among other places.

Best Scottish Breakfast Tea Brands

The unique perspectives I bring to this recommendation are based on my own taste preferences and the pleasure I derive from this exceptional tea blend.

1. Tea & Coffee Edinburgh

The Edinburgh Tea and Coffee Company has been practicing the art of blending in the charming capital city of Scotland for over two centuries, since 1812.

As a family-run enterprise, this company holds a rich heritage that is deeply rooted in tradition. Personally, I have had the pleasure of experiencing their exceptional teas and coffees, which have consistently exceeded my expectations.

What sets The Edinburgh Tea & Coffee Company apart is their unwavering commitment to preserving the time-honored craft of tea blending and coffee roasting.

Despite the passage of time, they have managed to seamlessly merge their artisanal techniques with modern production methods, ensuring that their products remain relevant and of the highest quality in the twenty-first century.

Having witnessed their dedication firsthand, I can attest to the immense passion and attention to detail that goes into every blend.

What do I like about this tea?

  1. Quality tea leaves
  2. A unique characteristic flavor
  3. A light and refreshing afternoon tea

2. Brodies

With its origins dating back 140 years when Brodies introduced the pioneering breakfast tea blend, the tradition continues today by combining exquisite black teas from Kenya and Assam to craft the classic Breakfast blend.

This invigorating beverage, savored first thing in the morning, awakens the taste buds and provides a burst of vitality with its vibrant and brisk character.

As someone who appreciates the art of a well-balanced breakfast, I have personally experienced the undeniable charm of this tea, which emanates a delightful malty flavor that sets the perfect tone for a respectable start to the day.

What do I like about this tea?

  1. A breakfast blend
  2. Bright, Brisk, and Strong
  3. A delight of malty flavor 

3. The Scottish Blend

Blending broken-leaf tea with distinctive varieties from China, Sri Lanka, and India, this unique blend is carefully crafted to cater to individuals seeking an invigorating morning awakening.

The resulting cup offers a rich, well-rounded flavor, accompanied by malty undertones and a lively character.

Having savored this tea on numerous occasions, I can attest to its ability to enliven the senses and provide a truly satisfying experience.

The combination of carefully selected teas from different origins creates a harmonious fusion of flavors, resulting in a delightful cup that invigorates both the mind and body.

To further enhance the tea's already captivating profile, the author suggests adding a teaspoon of Tupelo Honey.

This natural sweetener perfectly complements the tea's robust character, adding a touch of sweetness that elevates the overall taste.

I have personally experimented with this pairing and can confidently say that it enhances the tea's flavor, creating an ideal choice for those seeking a remarkable morning beverage.

What do I like about this tea?

  1. A perfect eye-opener.
  2. A brisk malt flavor
  3. A perfect blend of three different teas.

4. Taylors of Harrogate

When it comes to selecting the best Scottish breakfast tea, Taylors of Harrogate's Scottish Breakfast Tea bags undoubtedly stand out from the rest.

Their delightful flavor, and captivating aroma, making them a top pick on my list.

Taylors of Harrogate's Scottish Breakfast Tea bags have an exceptional quality that sets them apart.

Each sip carries a distinct character that embodies the essence of a traditional Scottish breakfast tea, making it a perfect choice to start the day on a high note.

The lovely flavor profile of this tea leaves a lasting impression.

From my own perspective, Taylors of Harrogate's Scottish Breakfast Tea bags not only meet but exceed expectations

What do I like about this tea?

  1. A no-bitter flavor that is elegant.
  2. Smooth and fresh flavor.
  3. An excellent present for tea lovers.
  4. A constant flavor that is strong.
  5. Cost-effective tea.

5. Organic Positively Tea Company

With its exquisite richness and full-bodied character derived from the finest organic black tea leaves, this tea is a true indulgence. I was pleasantly surprised by how well this tea satisfied my morning cravings.

Its robust flavor and invigorating aroma make it a perfect companion for a revitalizing start to the day or a delightful pick-me-up whenever needed.

This tea has a rich, full-bodied flavor and is made from the finest organic black tea leaves. It is excellent for a cup of coffee in the morning or anytime.

I can confidently say that this tea stands out not only for its exceptional taste but also for its affordability.

It's a testament to the fact that you don't have to break the bank to enjoy a premium Scottish breakfast tea experience.

What do I like about this tea?

  1. In a cup of tea, simplicity and freshness.
  2. A fantastic scent that is smooth.
  3. Very simple to make.
  4. Strong flavor with earthy undertones that is very bold.

6. Harney & Sons Scottish Morn Black Tea

Harney and Sons' Scottish Morn blend is a tea that combines robustness with simplicity. As a tea enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of experiencing this morning blend, which consists of Assam, Ceylon, & Assam CTC leaves.

It delivers a full-bodied character that is truly satisfying. In my personal experience, I found that while the aroma of this blend only subtly hints at malt, the flavor is considerably stronger and more pronounced.

This unique perspective allows me to appreciate the depth and intensity of the tea, making it a delightful choice for those who enjoy a bold and invigorating cup of tea.

What do I like about this tea?

  1. Hearty taste and aroma
  2. A desirably strong flavor
  3. A clear hint of malt

7. Thompson's

With its abundance of lakes and reservoirs, Scotland boasts an ample supply of softer water, which happens to be the perfect match for Thompson's blend.

Drawing from my personal experience, I have discovered that the finest teas from North India blend exceptionally well with carefully selected teas from the foothills of Mount Kenya.

This expert pairing creates an award-winning tea that offers a deeply gratifying flavor profile. Whether it's morning, afternoon, or evening, this blend has become my go-to choice for the ultimate cup of tea

What do I like about this tea?

  1. An ideal morning blend
  2. Strong and satisfying flavor
  3. Rich and smooth taste

Wrapping Up!

You must have a thorough understanding of Scottish breakfast tea if you've read this best Scottish breakfast tea review from beginning to end.

I sincerely hope that this guide helped you locate the ideal Scottish tea. After reading this article, you'll know why Scottish breakfast teas seem to be popular right now.

Thanks for reading!