8 Classic Tea Bases Perfect for Bubble & Specialty Drinks in 2025

TL;DR — This guide breaks down eight versatile tea bases—from citrusy Earl Grey to aromatic Jasmine—that pair seamlessly with milk, fruit, and creative toppings. Use them to craft balanced, high-margin beverages.

1 Earl Grey – Citrus Lift for Creamy Milk Teas

Earl Grey’s bergamot oil infuses a bright, citrus aroma that cuts through dairy, making it a favourite for milk-tea menus. Brew at 95 °C for 3 min to avoid bitterness.

2 Assam Black – Robust Backbone for Brown-Sugar Boba

With notes of malt and honey, Assam adds structure to sweet brown-sugar syrups. Steep 4 min @ 96 °C for full flavour extraction.

3 Jasmine Green – Floral Partner for Tropical Fruit Teas

Jasmine-scented green tea complements mango, passion fruit, and lychee syrups. Cold-brew overnight for a delicate 0 % bitterness base.

4 Roasted Oolong – Nutty Depth for Cheese Foam Toppers

Medium-roast oolong delivers roasted chestnut notes that balance savoury cheese foam or salted cream caps.

5 Ceylon Black – Versatile All-Rounder for Fruit & Milk

Bright and brisk, Ceylon pairs equally well with dairy or citrus additions, making inventory simpler for multi-flavour shops.

6 Sencha – Umami Kick for Matcha-Inspired Mixes

Sencha’s vegetal umami bridges the gap between classic green tea and powdered matcha drinks, ideal for low-caffeine options.

7 Honeybush – Caffeine-Free Sweetness for Night-Owl Menus

Naturally sweet and caffeine-free, Honeybush targets evening customers seeking a relaxing alternative.

8 Thai Black – Spiced Notes for Exotic Signature Drinks

Infused with star anise and tamarind, Thai black tea turns any iced drink into a vibrant, Instagram-ready latte.

At-a-Glance Quick Reference

• Earl Grey: Bergamot citrus • Pairing: Milk foam / Lemon peel • Brew: 95 °C / 3 min
• Assam: Malt & honey • Pairing: Brown-sugar syrup • Brew: 96 °C / 4 min
• Jasmine Green: Floral • Pairing: Mango purée • Brew: Cold-brew 8 h
• Roasted Oolong: Nutty, toasted • Pairing: Cheese foam • Brew: 90 °C / 3 min
• Ceylon: Bright, brisk • Pairing: Peach syrup • Brew: 95 °C / 3 min
• Sencha: Vegetal umami • Pairing: Matcha cream • Brew: 80 °C / 2 min
• Honeybush: Honey-like sweetness • Pairing: Lychee jelly • Brew: 100 °C / 5 min
• Thai Black: Spiced sweetness • Pairing: Coconut milk • Brew: 95 °C / 4 min

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