No, not all iced tea is black tea.
While black tea is the most common iced tea, the term "iced tea" simply refers to any tea that is chilled. This means that almost any tea can be turned into a fantastic glass of iced tea.
Iced tea can be made from a variety of tea types beyond black tea, including:
- Green tea: Known for its lighter, often grassy flavor, it makes a refreshing iced drink.
- White tea: Delicate and subtly sweet, it can also be served chilled.
- Oolong tea: Offers a range of flavors from floral to roasted, providing diverse iced tea options.
Furthermore, the reference highlights that herbal infusions are also popular for iced teas. Herbal teas such as hibiscus are especially popular for iced teas! These infusions, often made from fruits, flowers, or herbs, are technically not teas (as they don't come from the Camellia sinensis plant) but are commonly enjoyed as caffeine-free iced beverages.
In summary, while black tea holds the top spot in popularity for iced preparations, iced tea can be brewed from virtually any type of true tea or herbal infusion, offering a wide spectrum of flavors and aromas to enjoy chilled.