TEA’s BIBLE

Straight ・ Sikkim

Sikkim

A rare high-altitude tea known for its Temi tea garden. Elegant aroma reminiscent of Darjeeling.

Origin
North India, Sikkim
Liquor color
Bright Amber
How to enjoy
Best enjoyed as a straight tea

About Sikkim

This rare black tea is grown in Sikkim, north of Darjeeling, with the state-run Temi tea garden being its almost sole producer. It possesses a floral and mellow aroma similar to Darjeeling, and due to its limited production, encountering it is a fortunate 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.

Arrangement recipes

Featured guides

Learn more