Tea production and consumption in Vietnam date back over a thousand years, playing a key role in the country’s cultural and social life. Though often overshadowed by tea giants like China or India, Vietnam has been a significant producer in Asia for centuries.
In recent decades, Vietnam has experienced a remarkable revival in the tea industry. Despite the years of conflict that affected its economy and agriculture, the country has re-established itself as a major global producer.
Today, Vietnam’s annual tea production is growing faster than any other country, driven by foreign investment and local entrepreneurial spirit. This growth has not only revitalized existing plantations but also expanded the market internationally.
Vietnam is not just a country that produces tea in large quantities, it also boasts unique varieties and high-quality artisanal teas. This makes it a key destination for tea professionals looking for both traditional and innovative products.
History of Tea in Vietnam
Tea’s history in Vietnam is nearly as old as the country itself, with tea consumption and production spanning over a millennium.
The mountainous terrain, ideal for tea cultivation, has allowed a rich cross-fertilization of techniques and production styles.
For centuries, tea was a staple of Vietnamese culture. Traditionally, tea drinking was considered an activity for the upper class, associated with nature contemplation, poetry, and family life.
In recent decades, younger generations have rediscovered this tradition, now enjoyed in a more modern context.
Evolution of the Tea Industry
While Vietnam’s tea history is ancient, the evolution of its industry has been marked by periods of decline and resurgence.
The 19th and 20th centuries were particularly challenging due to French occupation, World War II, and the Vietnam War, disrupting the country’s agricultural development, including tea cultivation. During these conflicts, tea plantations were neglected, and much of the local tea knowledge was nearly lost.
Today, Vietnam is the world’s seventh-largest tea producer and continues to grow rapidly, with the rise of organic tea cultivation being especially noteworthy.
Tea-Growing Regions in Vietnam
Vietnam boasts various tea-growing regions, from the northern mountains to the central highlands. Each of these regions offers a microclimate that influences the flavour, aroma, and quality of the teas produced.
Northern Vietnam
The northern provinces, particularly those bordering China, are known for having some of the oldest tea varieties.
The tribal areas in the mountainous border regions, such as Ha Giang and Lao Cai, are home to “shan tuyet” tea trees, a wild-growing variety of Camellia sinensis that can be over a thousand years old.
These trees, which can reach heights of up to 4 meters, produce a unique green tea with silver tips, referred to as “snow” by local producers.
Some of the most renowned areas include:
- Thái Nguyên: Known for producing the finest green teas in Vietnam, with leaves famous for their initially bitter taste that leaves a lingering sweetness on the palate.
- Phu Tho: This province produces CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) black teas, mainly for export. Phu Tho teas are prized for their bright and strong liquor.
Central Highlands of Vietnam
The Central Highlands, especially around Da Lat, are famous for their cool, humid climate, perfect for tea cultivation.
Here, the French influence remains visible in the plantations and local infrastructure, which has supported steady industry development.
- Bảo Lộc and Cầu Đất: These areas in Lâm Đồng province are known for producing some of the best black and green teas in the country, along with a wide variety of floral teas.
The region’s altitude and cool climate result in high-quality teas, distinguished by their smooth and aromatic flavours.
Other Notable Regions
- Suối Giàng, Yên Bái: Known for its shan tuyet teas, the climate and soil in this mountainous region contribute to the uniqueness of these teas, characterised by their fresh, balanced flavour.
- Tà Xùa, Son La: Also known for its ancient tea trees, this area produces high-quality leaves with a deep, complex flavour.
Popular Vietnamese Teas
Green Tea (Trà Xanh)
Green tea is undoubtedly the most popular in Vietnam, accounting for about 63% of retail sales volume. Vietnamese green tea stands out for its freshness and strength, with a caffeine content that falls between Chinese and Japanese green teas.
One of the most prized varieties is green tea from Thái Nguyên, which has a robust and bitter flavour that leaves a lasting sweetness after mouth.
Lotus Tea (Trà Sen)
Lotus tea is one of Vietnam’s best-known specialities. Produced by infusing lotus flowers into green tea leaves, this fragrant tea has a sweet, inebriating aroma.
The tea leaves are placed inside lotus flowers for a day to absorb the fragrance, creating a smooth and aromatic tea that is often enjoyed at Vietnamese ceremonies and special events.
Jasmine Tea (Trà Lài)
Similar to lotus tea, jasmine tea is made by blending jasmine flowers with green tea leaves.
This tea is especially popular in urban areas, often served as a refreshing accompaniment after coffee. Its deep, floral aroma makes it a favourite among those who love scented teas.
Shan Tuyet Tea
Harvested from the ancient tea trees in northern Vietnam, shan tuyet tea is a white or green variety known for its smoothness and herbal notes.
Other Notable Varieties
- Trà Atiso: An herbal tea made from artichokes, particularly popular in the Lâm Đồng region.
- Trà Sam Dua: A delicacy from central Vietnam, combining green tea with jasmine flowers, basil, and pandan leaves.
- Trà Dang: Also known
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Conclusion
The tea industry in Vietnam has come a long way from its ancient origins to its resurgence on the global stage.
Despite historical challenges and years of conflict, the country has established itself as one of the world’s top tea producers, with production growing faster than any other country.
Vietnam offers a massive tea output and unique varieties that stand out for their quality and distinctive flavours.
Tea professionals and enthusiasts alike can find in Vietnam an endless source of sensory experiences and discoveries, solidifying the country as a key destination in the world of tea.