Straight ・ Darjeeling
Darjeeling
Features a unique aroma known as muscat flavor. Available by estate at specialty shops.
- Origin
- North India
- Liquor color
- Orange
- How to enjoy
- Best enjoyed as straight tea
About Darjeeling
Grown on the cool slopes of the Himalayas at an altitude of around 2,000 meters, this tea is one of the world's top three black teas. Often referred to as the 'Champagne of Tea,' it boasts a vibrant aroma reminiscent of muscat grapes. The spring harvest (First Flush) is fresh and light, while the summer harvest (Second Flush) highlights a rich muscat flavor and depth, making them distinctly different despite sharing the same name. Each estate has its own unique character, offering a delightful tasting experience.
How to brew
Good tea comes down to three basics: the amount of leaves, fresh boiling water, and steeping time. Use about one teaspoon (3g) of leaves per cup, pour freshly boiled water at 95–100°C briskly over them, put the lid on the pot, and steep for 2.5–3 minutes. When the leaves circulate up and down in the pot (the 'jumping' effect), the aroma and flavor come out well.
- As a straight tea
- Enjoy the tea's natural aroma and liquor color. Steep for about 2.5–3 minutes; shorten it slightly if you find it too astringent. Pour out to the very last drop (the 'best drop') so the second cup keeps the same strength.
A general guide to brewing black tea. Adjust to the tea and your taste.