Darjeeling tea is derived from Camellia sinensis, a Chinese tea variety. It is grown majorly in Western Bengal’s Darjeeling district in India. There are only eighty-seven tea plantations that produce this tea brand. It is a famous tea product which is exported worldwide. It is unique since the leaves are versatile and can be processed differently to produce oolong, green, white, or black tea variations. Ideal temperatures for growing this tea type ranges between 195 °F and 205 °F. The average caffeine content in each 8-liquid-ounce cup is about 50 mg, though this varies based on the flush type used to produce it.
The Growing Process
The plant undergoes growth periods and dormant periods. The period between which the tea plant grows new leaves and gets to harvest is called a flush. Flush periods are majorly dependent on the weather and specific location of the plantation. This tea type undergoes 3 major flushes.
Types
The separate flushes give the aroma, taste, and color different results. The flavanols in the tea leaf amalgamate with oxygen in the air during tea fermentation. This process distinguishes between the varieties of black, green, and oolong tea. The black tea variation of this tea blend is completely fermented; oolongs are partially fermented, and green tea undergoes no fermentation at all.
First Flush
This phase occurs from mid-March to May, and harvest occurs after the dormant winter period, during spring. The tea resulting from this phase has a distinct taste, flowery scent and is brightly colored.
Second Flush
Occurring from June to mid-August, this flush period creates tea leaves with a purplish bloom, an intense flavor, fruity taste, and has an amber color. The flavor is derived from the topography, plant type, and unusual weather.
Third Flush
Also termed autumn flush, this phase occurs between October and November. The plant presents larger leaves than in any of the other flush seasons. When brewed, it is slightly lower in price and results in a coppery dark-colored tea.
In-between Flush
This is a minor flush and goes on for two weeks, occurring between the first two flushes. The result is characteristically similar to the first flush tea blend though the quality is slightly lower.
Monsoon Flush
Also known as the rains flush, it takes place in September between the last two major flushes. This tea type is rarely export quality, is sold for lower prices, and undergoes more oxidization. It is popularly used in masala tea.
Grading
This tea type tea is classified with a grading system in addition to flushes. The tea leaves’ dimensions and superiority determine the blends. The four classifications for tea leaves consist of entire tea leaves, fannings, broken leaves, and dust. The highest grade is the whole leaves, and the lowest quality is the dust. Small leaf particles are utilized in tea bags, and the waste left essentially by the tea leaves is the tea dust.
Benefits
Darjeeling tea has several benefits, similar to those found in most of the other tea varieties. These include:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Aids in digestion by neutralizing chemicals, eliminating toxins, and combating free radicals within the body.
- Reduces Stress: Helps cortisol production regulation, the stress hormone.
- Provides Hydration: Drinking tea helps fight dehydration.
In Summary
Darjeeling tea is also known as the champagne of teas. You can purchase it as loose leaf tea or tea bags, and you can order them conveniently from an online tea and coffee shop. You can also use this tea type for various recipes. It combines well with vodka, making an alcohol-infused tea blend or pomegranate to make a fruity variation.
