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DARJEELING TEAS
This is the most expensive, sought-after black tea in the world.
Unlike most other teas, many Darjeelings are sold under the name of the plantation where they were grown.
If you intend to buy Darjeeling, make sure you are
buying 100% Darjeeling, preferably first or second
flush .
Fine
Darjeelings usually have a lighter liquor than other black teas, from a light reddish color to a bright gold.
Astringency is usually quite pronounced,
and the aroma and flavor hint of almonds and wildflowers.
Plucking
season begins with the first flush of new growth
in March
and April.
Following
a short period of
dormancy,
the plants put forth a second flush that is
picked
from May into June.
The summer months bring
daily heavy
rains from July until September, yielding a
monsoon
flush.
The autumnal
flush is picked in October and
November.
The cold winter months of December to
February
are a period of dormancy.
When dealing with Darjeelings, you may also see the following terms: Estate:
names the plantation where the leaves were grown.
Vintage: means that
the leaves are the product of one harvest, and are not blended with any others.
First
Flush: the leaves were plucked in the first growth of the season. It usually produces a very light, delicate drink.
Second Flush: second-growth harvest. More robust and complex than first
flush.
Autumnal Flush: harvest after the rainy season.
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