Country of Origin: India
Leaf Appearance: dark, curly with lots of golden tips
Ingredients: black tea
Steep time: 5 minutes
Water Temperature: 205 degrees
Preparation Method: ceramic teacup and mesh infuser
Liquor: amber
I had not had a Margaret’s Hope Darjeeling for several years so I couldn’t resist picking up some when I visited their Columbus Avenue shop. It was full bodied with fruity notes and a distinct peppery aftertaste. The signature muscatel of a Darjeeling is there but it is more subtle than what I’ve had from other estates. It wasn’t bitter at all but it did have a refreshing astringency. According to Le Palais des Thés’ website, this blend is 20% of this tea is made up of Assam leaves. That explains the extra bit of pep! This would make a perfect breakfast tea since it is on the strong side but isn’t quite the kick in the mouth that you would get from an Irish Breakfast. The leaves resteep well so I often make myself a cup and then make a travel tumbler to go.
You can find out more about this tea here.