The present invention relates to a process for manufacturing a black leaf tea product, the process comprising the steps of: providing black leaf tea having a moisture content of less than 5 wt.%; and then subjecting this black leaf tea starting material to a heat treatment step by contacting it with a heated surface at a temperature of 100°C to 170°C for a duration of 2 to 25 minutes. The present invention also relates to a black leaf tea product obtainable by this process.