A process for preparing a concentrated tea-based beverage using an espresso machine, the process comprising: placing a measure of ground tea in a portafilter basket; placing the portafilter basket in the machine; and passing hot water through the ground tea under pressure. Preferably between 90wt% and 100wt% of the ground tea has a particle size of less than 2mm, and 80% has a particle size of between 0.25mm and 1mm. In some embodiments, the tea may comprise a blend of tea varieties, which have been combined in a desired ratio before grinding. Also disclosed is a tea capsule containing ground tea, wherein at least 70% of the ground tea within the capsule has a particle size of between 0.25mm and 1mm, wherein the capsule may be formed of metal or plastics.