Widely acclaimed for its dazzling scenes, lovely climate, and stunning teas, Darjeeling lies in the Himalayan lower regions. It has been producing some of the best teas in the world for over a century in this charming hill station in West Bengal. Due to its unique climatic conditions and favorable growing conditions, Darjeeling is known as the “Champagne of Teas”. Your travel bucket list should include a visit to Darjeeling if you are a tea enthusiast.
Darjeeling Tea’s Origins
Darjeeling tea has an interesting history that dates back to the mid-19th century when the British established tea plantations in the region. This region was ideal for tea cultivation because the climate was cool, the mountains were misty, and the soil was rich. Tea estates across Darjeeling produce unique flavors and characteristics, each unique from the other.
There are several types of Darjeeling tea
The harvest season of Darjeeling tea is divided into four flushes:
First Flush: Right off the bat in the year, as a rule around late Walk or early April, the principal collection occurs. Those that are from the first flush of the year are light and delicate with floral aromas and a subtle sweetness.
Second Flush: The second flush takes place in May and June. Second-flush teas are fuller and muscatel-flavored. It is exceptionally pursued and thought about as the best tea available by tea authorities.
Monsoon Flush: Rainfall is abundant during the monsoon flush between July and September. The teas in this category are darker in color and have a stronger taste.
Autumn Flush: Autumn flush teas are mellow and mild and are harvested in October and November. Their fruity notes often make them stand out.
In addition to flush variations, elevation also affects Darjeeling leaf tea quality. The delicate and floral flavors of high-elevation teas, such as Margaret’s Hope and Jungpana, are highly sought after. Goomtee and Castleton teas are known for their fuller, stronger flavors.
Experience the taste of tea
Tea tasting is an essential part of the best Darjeeling tea. Whether you are in Rajasthan or any part of India you can sample a variety of teas from the region on guided tours and tastings offered by many tea estates. We will teach you how to steep and brew tea during a tea tasting. Aside from displaying the unpretentious contrasts between each tea, the hosts will guide you through each tea’s aroma, taste, and flavor. You can sample teas from different flushes and estates, to experience Darjeeling tea’s diversity and complexity. In many cases, tea tastings are conducted in tranquil surroundings with breathtaking views of the tea gardens. It is the tranquil and calm atmosphere that contributes to the overall experience, making it a highly memorable and immersive one.
The best place to buy Darjeeling tea
Do not fret if you are not able to visit Darjeeling! Darjeeling Special Tea are available worldwide, and many online retailers offer a range of flavors and estates. A hologram or the “Darjeeling” logo, which indicates authenticity, should accompany your purchase of Darjeeling Special Chai.
For a more authentic and flavorful Darjeeling tea experience, choose loose-leaf tea instead of tea bags. Unlike tea bags, loose-leaf teas allow the leaves to open fully, releasing their full flavors and aromas.
Conclusion
A Taste of Best Darjeeling tea in India is unlike anything else in the world. This is whether you’re a tea enthusiast or just enjoying the finer things in life. There’s nothing like Darjeeling tea to take you on a sensory journey that leaves you pining for more. Then why not spend some time in Darjeeling soaking up tea culture? The taste buds will thank you. If you know anyone who loves tea, please pass this post along!