Glen Nevis Plantation’s Aratenna Special Silver Tips shine at 2026 North American Tea Conference

Thursday, 1 October 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

In a milestone achievement for Sri Lankan specialty tea, Aratenna Special Silver Tips from Glen Nevis Plantation in the historic Kandy region has been named the Overall Gold Medal Winner at the 2026 North American Tea Conference, organised by the Tea and Herbal Association of Canada.

This prestigious international accolade celebrates the pinnacle of craftsmanship, delicate flavor, and exceptional terroir that defines Ceylon specialty white tea.

The history of Glen Nevis Plantation dates back to 1898 started by Sealy Brothers from Ireland. Over a century later, the plantation continues to honor its heritage by producing world-class teas using meticulous, traditional methods combined with modern sustainable practices.

Harvested exclusively by hand, Aratenna Special Silver Tips are made from delicate, unopened tea buds that are carefully withered and dried under natural sunlight. The result is an exquisite, velvet-smooth brew characterised by subtle floral notes and a refined, naturally sweet finish.

This global recognition was made possible through dedicated industry leadership and collaboration:

Ceylon Artisanal Tea Association (CATA): Deserves key credit for championing and promoting small-scale, high-quality artisanal tea producers across Sri Lanka, elevating handcrafted teas onto the global stage.
Sri Lanka Tea Board: Provided critical regulatory assistance, policy support, and quality oversight to ensure the highest standards of Ceylon Tea exports.

Glen Nevis Plantation Directors Arnold and Rajika Perera said: "Winning the Overall Gold Medal at the 2026 North American Tea Conference validates our unwavering focus on quality over quantity. This award belongs to our skilled pluckers, our dedicated artisanal tea makers, and the entire Ceylon specialty tea movement."