Supermarket Tea Taste Test: Yorkshire, Tetley, PG Tips Face Off
With an estimated 100 million cups of tea consumed daily in the UK, Brits take their brews incredibly seriously. The debate over which tea brand reigns supreme is a national pastime, often sparking fierce rivalry. Preferences vary widely, from adding sugars and sweeteners to using different types of milk, fueling endless discussions. However, one common ground among tea drinkers is a disdain for overpriced items. If a cheaper alternative can deliver superior quality, many would gladly switch. To settle this age-old question, I conducted a rigorous taste test, comparing supermarket-branded teabags against the UK's biggest names to determine the best option for both flavour and cost.
All cups of tea in this test were brewed to what I consider a 'proper tea'—strong, with no sugar and just a splash of milk. This method ensures a fair comparison across brands, focusing on the core taste experience without distractions.
Sainsbury's: Rich and Flavourful
Sainsbury's red label tea, priced at 80p for 40 bags, promises a 'rich and refreshing' experience. I found it to be rich and flavoursome, ideal for those who enjoy a strong cuppa with a pronounced taste. While not something I'd drink daily due to its intensity, it's perfect for builders on site or office stocks. At 80p, it offers excellent value for a flavour-packed brew, though it might become sickly over time. Rating: 4/5
M&S: Smooth and Comforting
M&S rarely disappoints with groceries, and their teabags are no exception. These are a top contender for smoothness and comforting taste, very drinkable without risking flavour fatigue. It wasn't the strongest in the selection, especially compared to Sainsbury's, but it closely matched Tetley's profile. For Tetley fans, this is a compelling swap at £2.20 cheaper. Rating: 5/5
Tetley: Soothing but Pricey
Tetley, priced at £3.50 for 80 bags, has often been seen as a milder option for those who don't prefer strong tea. It is soothing, refreshing, and smooth, outperforming many cheaper alternatives. However, after trying M&S, I'd opt for the cheaper option due to the similar taste. Note: I accidentally tried decaf Tetley, but standard versions taste nearly identical, offering comfort for caffeine-free drinkers. Rating: 4/5
Tesco: Watery and Weak
Tesco's tea was far too watery and lacked overall taste and flavour compared to others. The product description suggests brewing for three to five minutes for full flavour, but practically, waiting that long isn't ideal. This makes it a poor choice for those seeking a robust cuppa. Rating: 2/5
Lidl: Cheap but Lacking
Lidl's Knightsbridge-branded teabags add a touch of elegance but fail to deliver a classic cuppa. The taste was stronger than Tesco's but still too watery and flavour-deficient for strong tea enthusiasts. At its low price point, it's the cheapest option, but quality suffers. Rating: 3/5
Yorkshire Tea: Strong and Smooth
Yorkshire Tea, priced at £2.18 for 40 bags, is my go-to choice and didn't disappoint in this test. It offers the strongest tea without being overbearing, with a smooth sip and squared teabag for a classy touch. However, its hefty price tag—£4.36 for 80 bags compared to cheaper brands—doesn't justify a massive lead in quality. Rating: 5/5
Asda: Budget but Bland
Asda's essentials tea, at 28p for 40 bags, was the cheapest but also the worst. It was watery with minimal flavour, barely distinguishable from boiling water with milk. The low price reflects its poor performance. Rating: 1/5
PG Tips: Balanced and Affordable
PG Tips, priced at £1.80 for 40 bags, matches Yorkshire Tea in taste and features a square teabag. It's smoother with slightly less flavour but still creates a strong cup quickly. At 38p cheaper, it's a better value pick for those torn between brands. Rating: 5/5
The Verdict
The clear winner for strength, flavour, and smoothness is Yorkshire Tea, boasting a strong reputation for good reason. However, for budget-conscious shoppers, M&S teabags offer a smooth cup at a far cheaper price. Alternatively, if you crave a super strong, rich flavour for a morning caffeine hit, Sainsbury's delivers best among supermarket options. Prices for branded teas may vary, but supermarket products should remain consistent across stores.
