What is the distinction between Black, Green, and White tea?

[bonesbond]

White Tea

White tea leaves are the youngest and most tender leaves that are much more rare because they are only harvested at certain times of the year. There is no oxidation that is allowed to occur in the processing of white tea. After harvest, the young tea leaves are fired immediately before any oxidation can occur which results sweeter and naturally mild product. Because of the use of only select leaves, white tea tends to be more expensive than other tea.

Black Tea

Black tea is most common in the west where people often serve it sweetened on ice or hot with cream, honey or sugar. Processing of black tea is quite different from that of white tea. Black tea leaves are fully oxidized or exposed to air until there color turns black; then fired. This "fermentation" process raised the concentration of chemicals, called tannins, which results in black tea's characteristic strong and somewhat bitter taste.

Green Tea

Like white tea, green tea varieties are produced by preventing oxidation from occurring. The harvested leaves are initially steamed, which stops the fermentation process, before being fired. As it has been for centuries, green tea is the beverage of choice in many Asian countries. Green tea is yellow to green after brewing and has a mild, earthy essence. Studies indicate that green tea may be more healthful than other varieties as well.
www.rummy123.com