Sabarargamuwa Region
The latest blog in our series on Sri Lanka's tea growing regions.
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Sri Lanka lies the picturesque tea growing region of Sabaragamuwa. Renowned for its verdant hills, pristine waterways, and a climate perfect for tea cultivation, Sabaragamuwa is a haven for tea enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
This tea-growing district covers most of the western and south-western faces of the central mountains of Sri Lanka. The terrain is hilly, with numerous small valleys cut into the hillsides by streams and rivers draining the upper massif.
The Sabaragamuwa climate is characterised by its moderate temperatures and ample rainfall, providing the perfect conditions for tea plants to thrive. The mist-shrouded hills and fertile soil contribute to the unique flavour profile of Sabaragamuwa teas, making them highly sought after by tea connoisseurs.
Perched on a hill just a stone's throw form the Sinharaja Rain Forest.
Local tea cultivation is an art form passed down through generations. Skilled tea pluckers handpick the tender tea leaves, ensuring only the finest quality leaves are harvested. These leaves undergo meticulous processing, including withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying, to preserve their natural flavours and aromas.
These traditional methods combined with modern techniques result in teas that are rich in flavour, with a delicate balance of sweetness and astringency.
The highest estates lie just below the boundaries of the Sinharaja and Peak Wilderness nature reserves and share in the microclimatic conditions produced by the rainforests, cloud forests and high, grassy plains endemic to this region. As a result, they produce tea of a somewhat different character to that grown at lower elevations in the district. Some of these estates receive the highest rainfall of any in the plantation districts.
One estate stands out for its exceptional quality and commitment to sustainability – New Vithanakande Estate.
Welcome to the New Vithanakande Tea Factory!
Situated in the heart of the region close to the Sinharaja, New Vithanakande Estate has been producing some of the finest teas since its establishment in the early 20th century.
What sets New Vithanakande Estate apart is its dedication to preserving the environment and supporting the local community. This combined with its use of traditional tea making techniques and the latest technology, sees New Vithanakande produce some of the worlds most sought after teas.
For those eager to experience the essence of Sabaragamuwa through its teas, New Vithanakande Estate offers a perfect example of a premium tea. lt has been a long standing customer favourite. This tea is perfect for drinking tea all day. Its black leaf is littered with small silvery/ green particles which are the tips of the tea plant. The flavour and aroma in the cup is that of a sweet caramel flavour and aroma. Whether you prefer the bold flavours of black tea or the delicate nuances of green tea, New Vithanakande Estate has something to satisfy every taste bud.
Each sip of tea from New Vithanakande Estate transports you to the misty hills of Sabaragamuwa, where the harmony of nature and human craftsmanship intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. So why not embark on a journey of flavour and aroma by indulging in the exquisite teas from this enchanting region?
You can see something about all of the regions here.
