São Miguel harbors a centuries-old tradition of tea cultivation. Two gems of the tea industry in the northern region of the island, the Gorreana Tea Factory and the Porto Formoso Tea Factory, stand as living witnesses to this rich heritage. The history of tea in the Azores dates back to the 19th century when trade and maritime exploration brought the plant to the island, where it would become a cornerstone of its economy and culture.
Tea, originally from Asia, found a new home in São Miguel's temperate and humid climate. Everything indicates that it was introduced into the archipelago at the beginning of the 19th century, on the island of Terceira, where it never developed.
It was Portuguese merchant José do Canto who played a pivotal role in introducing tea to São Miguel in 1820. His vision and passion for agriculture paved the way for the blossoming of this industry in an unexpected place.
Amidst green landscapes and
Atlantic breezes, São Miguel holds
the secret to a unique tea that
captures the essence of its land
and history.
A Legacy of Generations
Founded in 1883, the Gorreana Tea Factory is an icon on São Miguel island and one of the oldest tea factories in Europe. Situated on the slopes of Pico do Ferro hill, this factory has withstood the test of time and has continued to operate under the same family for five generations. The Gago da Câmara family has kept the legacy of tea production alive, respecting centuries-old traditions and techniques.
Gorreana's tea fields stretch across rolling hills, where one can witness the meticulous process of cultivation, harvesting, and processing. The Gorreana Tea Factory produces a wide variety of teas, including black, green, and semi-fermented tea, each with its own unique characteristics that reflect São Miguel's rich volcanic soil.
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More than just a beverage,
São Miguel's tea embodies cultural
and gastronomic ties, enriching local
identity and attracting travelers
seeking authentic experiences.
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From Orange Pekoe to Broken Leaf
Another significant player in the tea industry on São Miguel is the Porto Formoso Tea Factory, which has skillfully combined tradition with innovation. Established in 1924, the factory has evolved over the years to meet changing market demands without compromising on quality. Located on the slopes of Monte Escuro, Porto Famoso has become a popular tourist destination, where visitors can immerse themselves in the history of tea and appreciate the technological advancements used in its production. The company is known for producing a diverse range of tea varieties, such as Orange Pekoe, Pekoe, Broken Leaf, and Mixtura. Each variety boasts its own nuances and characteristics.
The Sociedade Promotora da Agricultura Michaelense, well into the 19th century (1874), decided to organize a subscription among its members to pay two Chinese experts to come and teach the inhabitants of São Miguel how to get the most out of the crop. The two experts, Lan Pan and Lan Ten, went to the island and, for a few months, taught them the techniques for harvesting the leaves and their subsequent treatment.
There were up to 14 tea factories in São Miguel. The fact that this plant in Europe is only cultivated in the Azores, has provided an added value to the archipelago that only the small area of cultivated land has not allowed it to achieve greater splendor.
A Glimpse into the Flavorful World of São Miguel
Contrary to what the name suggests, Orange Pekoe tea is not infused with oranges or citrus flavors. Instead, the name is derived from the Dutch word "oranje" and the Chinese word "pecco," which was used to describe a fine grade of tea leaves. Over time, "pekoe" became associated with high-quality whole tea leaves, and "orange" was added to the name to indicate its royal heritage, not its taste.
The process of crafting Orange Pekoe tea is a meticulous endeavor that begins with the careful plucking of young, tender tea leaves from the Camellia sinensis bushes. These leaves, known as "two leaves and a bud," are prized for their delicate flavor profile. Once harvested, the leaves undergo a series of steps, including withering, rolling, oxidation, and firing. It is this sequence of processes that gives Orange Pekoe tea its distinct characteristics.
The Art of Crafting Broken Leaf Tea
The production of broken leaf tea involves a delicate balance of technique and artistry. The tea leaves are gently rolled, twisted, or otherwise manipulated to achieve the desired size. Broken leaf tea showcases a remarkable range of flavors and aromas. Due to the increased surface area exposed by the smaller leaf fragments, the tea's essential oils are released more readily, creating a vibrant and aromatic cup. The taste can span from brisk and robust to delicate and nuanced, depending on the tea type and origin.
