Sri Lanka
Prior to the introduction of tea, coffee was the main cash crop in Sri Lanka. However, in the 19th century, a devastating coffee leaf fungal disease wiped out the coffee plantations, leading to the search for an alternative crop. British entrepreneurs and planters recognised the favourable climate and fertile soil, which were ideal for growing tea. Today, Sri Lanka is renowned for its high-quality tea production and valued for its diverse flavours: fruity and citrusy, with a hint of spice and honey-like notes, mellow and brisk, floral and fresh, strong and rich.