India’s tea production experienced a disturbance in March. COVID-19 and the resulting lockdown happened during harvest time for the country’s most prized and celebrated tea, Darjeeling. Despite the setback, some 2020 first flush Darjeeling teas are available.
First flush is when the tea leaves are plucked early, leaving little time for oxidation to occur. The end product is, therefore, closer to green tea than black tea.
I treated myself to Tindharia Estate First Flush Organic Darjeeling from Upton Tea Imports. It came with a heavy price tag, but I’ve been craving extraordinary experiences during the monotony of social distancing.
First Steep
The gold-colored tea had a sweet fragrance with hints of melon, lemon, orange, and honey. Medium-bodied with a smooth, buttery feel, the tea left a lingering sparkling feeling in my mouth.
Second Steep
Things got sweeter. In addition to the fruit-forward notes of the first steep, I discerned a tart scent reminiscent of SweeTarts Candy Roll. The silky mouthfeel and sprightly finish were still present.
Third Steep
Most of the previously mentioned characteristics remained. The time for analysis was over. It was time to savor this special tea.
