Shop
Phone: +94 11 270 3000
Email: info@summitteasglobal.com
Head Office - No. 27/1, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka
Factory - No. 19/5, Ambagaha Junction, Jamburaliya, Madapatha, Sri Lanka
OUR STORY
Born in the Highlands
At Summit Teas, we do not merely trade in commodities; we curate legacies. To understand the tea we bring to the world, one must understand the diverse "Terroirs" of Sri Lanka. From the ancient mist-shrouded peaks of Kandy to the sun-drenched lowlands of Ruhuna, every leaf tells a story of geology, history, and human grit.
THE BEGINNING
The Spirit of Ceylon
The story of Ceylon Tea is one of resilience, transformation, and ultimate triumph. While the island of Sri Lanka is now synonymous with the world's finest tea, its journey began in the shadow of a different titan: Coffee.
When Coffee was King
In the early 1820s, the British crown recognized the fertile potential of the central hill country. Under Governor Edward Barnes, coffee became the island's primary export, turning the colony into an imperial showpiece. However, in 1869, a devastating blight known as "coffee rust" swept through the plantations. Within a decade, the industry was decimated.
The Birth of a Legend
From the ruins of the coffee era, a new legend emerged. Planters discovered that the tea-bush thrived in the island's unique microclimates far better than coffee ever had. By 1883, the first public tea auctions were held in Colombo, and by 1965, Ceylon had become the world's largest exporter of tea.
When the country transitioned from "Ceylon" to "Sri Lanka" in 1972, a critical decision was made: to protect the "Ceylon Tea" brand. This name was not just a relic of the past; it was a global promise of quality. Today, Summit Teas carries this legacy forward, ensuring that the name "Ceylon" remains a gold standard from Virginia to Vladivostok.
HERITAGE
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CRAFT
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TERROIR
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RITUAL
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EXCELLENCE
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WHY WE BREW
A Natural Pharmacy in Every Cup
Modern living often presents us with a paradox — many of our favorite indulgences are scrutinized for their health risks. Tea, however, stands as a rare exception. It is one of the few beverages loved by billions that is entirely beneficial, backed by both ancient tradition and modern clinical research.
0%
Recommended Calcium
intake per 4 cups daily
0%
Vitamin B2
daily requirements
0%
Reduced Heart Risk
with 3 cups per day
Cardiovascular Protection
Studies suggest that three cups of tea a day can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk. Flavonoids act as scavengers in the bloodstream, neutralizing free radicals and toxins.
Metabolic Support
Tea polyphenols assist in stabilizing blood sugar and promoting healthy digestion by balancing the micro-organisms in the gut.
Cognitive Longevity
Emerging research points to tea's ability to protect brain cells, potentially reducing the risk of age-related memory impairment.
OUR PROCESS
From Plantation to Perfection
At Summit Teas (Pvt) Limited, we believe that the journey of a tea leaf is a race against time and a test of discipline. Our production process combines the 150-year-old Orthodox Method with 21st-century quality control.
We don't just buy tea; we select it. Our sourcing team maintains direct relationships with the most prestigious estates in all seven growing regions. We prioritize "Quality Season" harvests — when the climatic conditions of wind, humidity, and sunlight are in perfect alignment.
The Dry Leaf
Its color, "twist," and presence of silver or golden tips.
The Infusion
The aroma and color of the wet leaves.
The Liquor
The brightness, "briskness," body, and strength of the tea itself.
OUR REGIONAL SELECTION
Seven Regions, Seven Characters
We strategically harvest from both the Western and Eastern Quality Seasons, capturing each region at its biological peak. Led by Mr. Chathura Sampath, our team evaluates thousands of samples to find the perfect balance of leaf appearance, aroma, and liquor brightness.
Kandy
Mid-Grown • 650m – 1,300m Intensely Full-BodiedBright, coppery infusion. Strong and intensely full-bodied — a favorite for traditional breakfast blends. The cradle of the industry, where James Taylor began the odyssey in 1851.
Nuwara Eliya
High-Grown • 1,868m Delicately FragrantThe palest of all Ceylon Teas, shimmering with a golden hue. Exquisitely bouquet-driven with a delicate, floral fragrance. The "Champagne of Ceylon."
Uda Pussellawa
High-Grown • 950m – 1,600m Exquisitely TangyDarker in the cup with a unique pinkish hue. Known for being exquisitely tangy with a medium body. Develops a subtle hint of rose during colder months.
Uva
High-Grown • 1,000m – 1,600m Exotically AromaticDual monsoon exposure creates a pungent, exotic aroma. Peak season July–September, when dry winds concentrate the aromatic oils. Thomas Lipton's chosen terroir.
Dimbula
High-Grown • 1,100m – 1,600m Refreshingly MellowA fine golden-orange hue. The "all-rounder" of Ceylon tea — consistently refreshing with a clean, bright finish. Hints of jasmine mixed with cypress.
Sabaragamuwa
Low-Grown • Sea level – 610m Exceptionally StylishDark yellow-brown with a reddish tint. A unique hint of sweet caramel — strong, but not overpowering. Sri Lanka's largest tea-growing district.
Ruhuna
Low-Grown • Sea level – 600m Distinctively UniqueKnown for producing "tips" — the small, unopened buds that turn silver or gold when processed. Strong and full-flavored, the bedrock of "Strong Black Tea."
THE SUMMIT STANDARD
Art Meets Science
Tea tasting is a balance of art and science. At Summit Teas, we don't just buy "Ceylon Tea" — we buy the specific character of these seven regions. Whether we are sourcing the delicate fragrance of a Nuwara Eliya high-grown or the caramel sweetness of a Sabaragamuwa low-grown, our team ensures quality at every step.
Origin Protected
We verify that every leaf is grown and manufactured within its designated district.
Seasonality Honored
We purchase during the "Quality Seasons" to ensure maximum flavor.
Consumer Respected
We ensure that the professionalism of our production matches the 150-year legacy of these hills.
LEADERSHIP & VISION
The People Behind the Leaf
Mr. Sadeepa Ratnayake
Executive ChairmanSummit Teas represents our belief that Sri Lanka's greatest natural asset — Ceylon tea — deserves to be presented to the world with the quality, consistency, and professionalism it commands. We are building a company that respects the legacy of Ceylon tea while creating new opportunities for growth, innovation, and international reach.
Mr. Sadeepa Ratnayake, Executive Chairman
Mr. Roshan Iddamalgoda
ChairmanFor over three decades, I have worked closely with Ceylon tea — tasting it, blending it, and bringing it to markets around the world. Summit Teas is built on that experience and on a deep respect for the craft behind every cup. This is not just a brand; it is our commitment to the future of Sri Lankan tea.
Mr. Roshan Iddamalgoda, Chairman
Mr. Chathura Sampath
Senior Tea Taster / TraderTea tasting is both an art and a science. My role is to ensure that every batch reflects the true character of authentic Ceylon tea. We evaluate leaf appearance, aroma, liquor brightness, body, and finish to maintain the balance our customers expect.
Mr. Chathura Sampath, Senior Tea Taster / Trader
THE FUTURE
Exporting Heritage
As we move through 2026, Summit Teas (Pvt) Limited is expanding its footprint. We aren't just selling tea; we are exporting a piece of Sri Lankan heritage. From our strategic partnerships in Iraq and Türkiye to our growing presence in the United States and Russia, our focus remains on traceability, sustainability, and quality.
We utilize the MSC pallet system for secure international shipping and adhere strictly to FDA labeling requirements, ensuring that our "Summit Teas" brand is synonymous with trust in every market. Whether it is our premium loose-leaf collections or our innovative tea bags, every product is a peak experience.
Why Choose Summit Teas?
Direct Sourcing
We work directly with estates to ensure the freshest leaves.
Expert Blending
Over 30 years of professional blending experience.
Modern Hygiene
State-of-the-art processing centers that meet global standards.
Heritage Focused
We honor the traditional "Orthodox" method of manufacture.