The Tao of Tea, Pure Leaf, Organic, Teaware, Herbs, Yixing

100% Organic
Blue Mountains White
White Teas

Origin: Nilgiris, India

Plucking Season: Late Summer

Introduction: The 'Nilgiris' or 'Blue Mountains' are a range of mountains in South Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Tea is grown at elevations of 1,000 to 2,500 metres. The landscape is quite unlike the rest of India, marked by rolling hills covered with dense vegetation, smaller hills and plateaus covered with tea gardens. Many portions of the hills are preserved as natural reserve forests.

High Elevation
The altitude of the Nilgiris results in much cooler and wetter climate than the surrounding plains, and so the area is popular as a retreat from the summer heat. Temperature ranges from 25 celsius in summer to 10-15 celsius in the winter. The prinipal town of the area is Udhagamandalam, although the old British name of ootacamund, shortened to Ooty, is often used. In the town there are many buildings that look very 'British', and particularly the Churches. The other main towns are Coonoor and Kotagiri.

People
There are several native tribes living in teh Nilgiris. The most well known of these are the Toda people, whose culture is based upon cattle, and whose red, black and white embroidered shawls, and silver jewlery is mch sought after. The Toda are nature worshippers with 'Drawida' as their language.

Certified Organic
This tea comes from the first south Indian tea company to be on the list of approved tea sources of Transfair International. The tea estate is Certified Organic and part of a 72 year old tea company at an altitude of 2500 metres. High elevation helps enhance the flavor of the tea. pristine streams and virgin forests surround the tea estate. The tea garden uses natural processes and organic manure. Earthworms (part of vermiculture) are used to provide beneficial effects on plant growth, aeration of soil and drainage. For improving and preserving soil conditions natural composts are developed on site.

Garden History
The tea garden has become one of India's premier organic tea estates. Established in 1922, it remains firmly committed to sustainable production methods and conservation of the local ecosystem.

We are proud to be among the first group of tea companies to offer a white tea from south India.

Flavor Profile: Subtle, mineral aroma with a hint of black currant sweetness. Delicate, grassy flavor.

Ingredients: 100% Organic White Teas

Certified Organic by: Quality Assurance International (QAI)

Brewing Suggestions

Water Temp °F (°C)	Quality of Water	Quantity of Leaf (tsp / 8oz water)	Steep Time (minutes)	Infusions
160°F-180°F (71°C-82°C)	Best with Spring water	2	2-4	2-4

To learn about Water Quality click here

The young tip bud and first leaf sets used to make this tea are very tender. As such, we recommend using mineral or spring water at a lower temperature (160-180 F) to avoid ‘stewing’ the leaves and to bring out a more balanced flavor. This tea is much lighter in weight and requires a little more leaf to make a full flavored cup. Around two level teaspoons per 8 oz of water is a good place to start. Steeping time can range between 2 to 4 minutes. Although the amount of re-infusions possible can vary to taste, the above guidelines usually provide 2 to 4. As a general rule of thumb – the longer the steeping time and/or the higher the water temperature, the less leaf needed and fewer re-infusions possible.

Although white teas can be brewed in any vessel, teapots and gaiwans made from porcelain, glass, delicate ceramics, and other materials that release heat quickly work best. If you wish to use an yixing, cast iron, or any vessel made from a heavy material, it is a good idea to tilt open or remove the lid so that some heat is released and the leaf is not stewed.

Traditionally, white teas are enjoyed from porcelain gaiwans. Not only does a gaiwan make it easy to stir the leaf and control the temperature, but also to view the leaf as it is steeping, an important aesthetic in drinking these beautiful teas. Another common method for brewing and drinking white teas is to just place a few of the leaves in a clear glass, add heated water, and wait for the leaf to infuse and submerge. The beverage can then be enjoyed directly with the leaves and more water added as needed.


Purchase Options
By the Ounce - $ 6.00
Classic Size Tin (2.0 oz.)- $ 14.00 (Out of Stock)

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