Tea is one of the most loved drinks around the world, but most of us stick to the usual types of tea like black or green tea. However, the world of tea is full of unique options that might surprise you. If you’re ready to try something new, here are five types of tea you probably haven’t heard of.

1. Yellow Tea: The Gentle Tea

Yellow tea is a rare type of tea, mostly made in China. It’s similar to green tea but goes through an extra step during processing that gives it a smoother and more delicate flavor. The result is a tea that’s sweet, light, and has a flowery taste. Popular types of yellow tea include Junshan Yinzhen and Maojian.

2. Pu-erh Tea: The Aged Tea

Pu-erh tea comes from China’s Yunnan province and is a special type of tea that gets better with age. It’s made by fermenting the leaves, which gives the tea a rich, earthy flavor. There are two types of Pu-erh: raw (sheng), which is more bitter and grassy, and ripe (shou), which is smoother and earthier. The longer it is aged, the stronger and more pronounced its flavor becomes.

3. Oolong Tea: The Best of Both

Oolong tea is a mixture of green and black tea, falling somewhere in between the two. It’s only partly fermented, which gives it a flavor that can be light and floral or rich and roasted. Oolong is popular in Taiwan and China, and there are many types to choose from. One famous type is Tie Guan Yin, which has a flowery taste and smooth finish.

4. Butter Tea: A Tibetan Favorite

Butter tea, or Po Cha, is a traditional drink from Tibet. It’s made by mixing tea leaves with yak butter, salt, and sometimes milk. This tea is perfect for cold mountain regions because it’s warming and filling. It has a creamy, salty taste that might be different from what you’re used to, but it’s enjoyed by many for its energy-boosting benefits.

5. Lapsang Souchong: The Smoky Tea

Lapsang Souchong is a strong, smoky black tea. It’s made by drying the tea leaves over a fire, giving it a unique smoky flavor that tastes a bit like a campfire. It’s definitely an interesting tea for those who enjoy bold flavors. This tea is great with rich or savory foods.

6. Kombucha: The Fizzy Tea

While not exactly a traditional tea, Kombucha is a popular drink made from tea, sugar, and a special type of bacteria. It’s fermented, which makes it fizzy and gives it a tangy flavor. Many people drink Kombucha for its health benefits, like helping digestion and boosting energy.

There’s so many more types of tea than beyond just usual choices. From the smooth taste of yellow tea to the smoky kick of Lapsang Souchong, there’s always something new to try. So, next time you’re craving tea, you can try one of these interesting types of tea.