Origin: Darjeeling, India

Plucking Season: Summer

Introduction: Gold Darjeeling is a fine, rare, gold tipped leaf varietal from the acclaimed tea growing region of Mirik valley, Darjeeling, India.

Oldest Darjeeling
Made in late summer, at the oldest tea factory in Darjeeling, established in 1888. The tea garden is located along the Mechi river which runs along bordering Nepal and also employs workers from the Nepalese village of Antu.

High Elevation
Grown at an elevation of 1800 meters, Gold Darjeeling is from one of the highest elevation tea gardens in the region. Higher elevation tea plants grow slower and generally have more complexity in their flavor.

Darjeeling Seasons
Tea making in Darjeeling has distinct seasons, with early plucking beginning in late March. After a brief period the second plucking ‘second flush’ generally occurs in late April. Teas are also made after the rains in summer and ‘Autumnal’ tea are gaining more popularity. The flavors vary with the season and dependant on the climate and processing technique.

Technique
After the newly sprouted leaves have been plucked, they are withered over warm air for a few hours to reduce moisture. Once a suitable suppleness is achieved in the leaves, a delicate rolling of the leaves is performed. The leaves begin to oxidize (change color from green to dark) and the flavor develops. Finally, the leaves are oven baked to complete the process.

Flavor Profile: Smooth, buttery, honey texture. Full bodied brew with pleasant rose, muscatel grape like aroma.

Brewing Suggestions