Second Flush
Second flush is the late-spring and early-summer harvest that follows the first flush, giving fuller, coppery tea: muscatel in Darjeeling and malty, tippy tea in Assam.
Definition
The second flush is the growth that follows the first flush after a short pause. In Darjeeling it runs roughly from May into June; in Assam from late May through June. The leaf is more mature and the weather warmer, so the tea is fuller bodied and more fully oxidized than first flush. Darjeeling second flush is known for its muscatel character, a fruity, grape-like aroma. Tea makers tie this note partly to small insects, including leafhoppers (jassids) and thrips, feeding on the leaves. The plant's defensive response to the feeding changes its aroma chemistry, the same principle behind Taiwan's Oriental Beauty oolong. Liquor is amber to coppery and smoother than first flush. In Assam, second flush is the top harvest of the year. It gives the strongest, maltiest teas, often with plenty of golden tips. Most of the best orthodox Assam on the market is second flush. Japanese tea uses a parallel term, nibancha, for its second harvest, usually around June, but there the second harvest is cheaper and less prized than the first.
In Depth
Brew Darjeeling second flush at 90-95°C (194-203°F), about 2.5 g per 250 ml for 3-4 minutes. Assam second flush can take boiling water, 2.5-3 g per 250 ml, and 4-5 minutes, with or without milk.
Second flush keeps its character longer than first flush because its aroma comes from fuller oxidation rather than delicate green notes. It is still best within one to two years.
On Darjeeling labels, "muscatel" is a description, not a guarantee. The strength of the muscatel note depends on the year, the garden, insect activity and the cultivar. Estates such as Castleton and Jungpana are known for strong muscatel lots, but quality varies year to year. Prices for top muscatel lots can be several times those of average second flush from the same region.
See Also
- Darjeeling Flushes
- Muscatel Character
- Assam Harvest Seasons