Ruhuna

Sri Lanka

Ruhuna in southern Sri Lanka encompasses the island's low-country tea districts where warm tropical conditions produce a dramatically different style from the delicate high-grown Ceylons. The heat accelerates leaf growth and oxidation, yielding teas with a bold, full-bodied character, dark liquor, and naturally sweet, caramel-like finish. Ruhuna teas often feature large, bold leaf grades that brew into a smooth, rich cup without the astringency found in higher-elevation teas. While traditionally considered less prestigious than high-grown Ceylons, Ruhuna's teas have gained recognition among specialty buyers for their approachable character and versatility in both hot and iced preparations.