Country of Origin: India
Leaf Appearance: small, mottled greens and browns
Ingredients: black tea
Steep time: 3 minutes
Water Temperature: 200 degrees
Preparation Method: Teavana Perfect Steeper
Liquor: amber
You all know that I absolutely love Darjeeling. +Tea People was kind enough to send me a batch of samples that included several different selections from the Makaibari Estate. I’ve already reviewed their Darjoolong and Bai Mu Dan so it was high time that I dove into a 1st flush. The dry leaves and liquor were quite a bit darker than I was expecting. Most 1st flush teas that I come across these days look more like a green tea. The taste was floral and sweet with a mildly woody finish. There was a small amount of astringency but that aspect was very mellow. Overall I would say this was a really nice cup of tea and a great choice for those that prefer a second flush. There was a nice amount of complexity and although it is bolder than expected, I wouldn’t recommend adding milk or sugar. This is a tea that should be appreciated on its own.
Makaibari First Flush Vintage sample provided by Tea People.