There has never been a uniform opinion on how tea should be classified, should it be classified according to the growth region, fermentation process, fragrance, colour, taste or its potential in the market. But generally, tea is classified according to the different fermentation processes involved. The six major types of tea are Green Tea, White Tea, Yellow Tea, Dark Green Tea, Black Tea and Pu Er Type. For Floral Tea, it is classified according to the types of tea used in blending. Such as, Jasmine Mao Feng belongs to Green Tea, Rose Black Tea and Lychee Black Tea belong to Black Tea.

To make a good choice, people use their senses of sight, smell, taste and touch. That is first by viewing, second by smelling, third by touching, fourth by tasting. Or to be more specific, first to view the appearance of dry leaves for tenderness, shape, colour, purity and also the texture of moisten leaves after prepared. Second to smell the unique fragrance of leaves. Third is to feel the coarse or fine texture of leaves. Fourth is to taste the drink for its flavour. Besides these, we also have to be aware of the grading, freshness and fake of leaves are justified to their value.

There are four essential factors affecting a cup of tea: