Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a protected tea region in the West Bengal hills of India, where 87 gardens at up to 2,000 m produce light, aromatic black teas sold by flush.
Definition
Darjeeling is a district in the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal, India. Tea planting began in the 1840s with seed brought from China, and commercial gardens were established through the 1850s. Today 87 gardens hold the right to the name, on steep slopes from about 600 m to 2,000 m. In 2004 Darjeeling tea became the first product in India registered as a geographical indication. Most Darjeeling bushes are var. sinensis, either old China jat seedlings or modern clones, which sets the region apart from the assamica-based teas of lowland Assam. The cool climate, altitude and mist slow growth and produce a lighter, more aromatic cup. Darjeeling is sold by flush. First flush, from March to April, is pale, green and floral, and is often only partly oxidized. Second flush, from May to June, is fuller and coppery, with the muscatel character the region is known for. Monsoon flush, from July to September, is mostly used in blends, and autumn flush, from October to November, is mellow and woody. Teas are sold as single-estate lots with an invoice number.
In Depth
Brew first flush at 85-90°C (185-194°F), about 2-2.5 g per 200 ml for 2.5-3 minutes; boiling water and long steeps make it harsh. Second flush handles 90-95°C (194-203°F) for 3-4 minutes. Darjeeling is usually drunk without milk.
Labels list estate (such as Castleton, Margaret's Hope, Jungpana or Thurbo), flush, grade (often FTGFOP1 or SFTGFOP1) and sometimes clone (such as AV2) or China type. These details matter more than the word Darjeeling alone.
Total sales of tea labeled Darjeeling worldwide have long exceeded what the region produces each year. Look for the official Darjeeling logo, a woman holding two leaves and a bud, and buy from vendors who name the garden and lot. Production has fallen since the 2010s because of ageing bushes, labor disputes and climate pressure, which has pushed prices for top lots higher.
See Also
- Indian Tea Regions
- Darjeeling Flushes
- Geographical Indications