d a r j eel i n g - t h e e xot ic on e
Teas from Darjeeling are like the wines from the Champagne district of France - “extraordinaire.” It is said: “Tea without the name Darjeeling is like French wine without the prestige of Champagne.” Darjeeling has unique tea-growing seasons. After a period of dormancy during winter, tea plucking starts at the end of March through April. This is called the first flush; teas produced during this period tend to steep a somewhat greenish cup with superb taste and flavor. The prime second flush season begins in May and ends in late June. Teas produced during this period are of the most exalted quality, featuring exquisite bouquet, muscatel flavor, superb taste, and a lingering aftertaste. Teas produced during this season rightly fetch the highest prices. The monsoon hits the Darjeeling region in late June, and teas produced thereafter are of lesser quality. The months of October and November bring autumnal showers and produce a small batch of excellent-quality teas, which are referred to as Autumnal Flush Teas.
f i r st f l u sh d a r j ee l in g s
Darjeeling harvested from the end of dormancy until mid-May. The first batch produced each year is labeled “DJ-1,” and all subsequent batches follow in numerical order until dormancy returns in late autumn.Each year’s production thus ranges from first through second, monsoon and autumnal flushes. First flush characteristics are light liquors, spring freshness, and bright and lively flavors with intense astringency. The infused leaf has a prominent lime-green brightness and floral scent. T-36 Runglee Rungliot FTGFOP-1 A nice Darjeeling with great f inesse. Excellent for the afternoon. T-37 Balasun Estate FTGFOP-1 A Darjeeling with great character. A flowery note of distinction. T-38 Darjeeling 3911 Chado First Flush Darjeeling house blend. A mix of f ine Darjeelings. An all-around good f irst flush tea. T-39 Namring Estate FTGFOP-1 Exceptional tea with great aroma. Excellent daytime tea.
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BLACK TEA