2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea

Introducing the 2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea, a remarkable expression of the season’s earliest harvest. Carefully handpicked on 21st March 2025 and expertly processed and packed the very next day, this tea captures the freshest essence of the renowned Teesta Valley gardens.

Each leaf boasts a neat green appearance, promising a vibrant infusion. When brewed, the tea reveals a bright green-yellow liquor that delights the senses. The flavour profile is distinctly vegetal, complemented by a subtle hint of citrus, offering a refreshing and uplifting cup.

This first flush is a testament to the craftsmanship and unique terroir of Darjeeling, making it an exceptional choice for tea connoisseurs seeking purity and freshness in every sip.

About the Teesta Valley Tea Estate

Teesta Valley Tea Estate is one of Darjeeling’s most celebrated tea gardens, nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. Located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India, the estate lies near the banks of the Teesta River, from which it draws its name.

The unique microclimate, high altitude, and rich soil of this region contribute to the estate’s reputation for producing some of the world’s finest teas.

Established in the late 19th century during the British colonial era, Teesta Valley Tea Estate has a long and storied history. Over the decades, it has become synonymous with quality and tradition, blending heritage practices with modern innovation.

The estate spans lush, rolling hills covered in meticulously maintained tea bushes, offering breathtaking views and a serene environment ideal for tea cultivation.

Production at Teesta Valley Tea Estate is characterised by careful plucking and expert processing. The estate is renowned for its first flush teas, which are harvested in early spring and prised for their delicate flavour, floral aroma, and bright liquor.

Skilled workers handpick only the tenderest leaves and buds, ensuring that each batch meets the highest standards. The estate’s commitment to sustainable and ethical practices further enhances the quality and integrity of its teas, making Teesta Valley a respected name among tea enthusiasts worldwide.

How to Brew 2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea

To fully appreciate the delicate flavours and vibrant character of the 2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea, follow this detailed brewing guide:

1. Measure the Tea – Use 2–3 grams of loose leaf tea (about one heaped teaspoon) per 200 ml cup. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preference.
2. Select Fresh Water – Always use fresh, filtered water. Avoid distilled or previously boiled water, as it can dull the tea’s natural brightness.
3. Heat the Water – Bring the water to a gentle boil, then let it cool slightly. The ideal temperature for brewing Darjeeling first flush is 80–85°C (176–185°F). Water that is too hot can overpower the tea’s subtle notes.
4. Pre-warm the Teapot or Cup – Pour a little hot water into your teapot or cup, swirl it around, and discard. This helps maintain the correct brewing temperature.
5. Steep the Tea – Add the measured tea leaves to your teapot or tea infuser. Pour the hot water over the leaves and let them steep for 2–3 minutes. For a lighter flavour, steep for 2 minutes; for a more pronounced taste, allow up to 3 minutes. Avoid over-steeping, as this can introduce bitterness.
6. Strain and Serve – Once the desired steeping time is reached, strain the tea into your cup. Observe the bright green-yellow liquor and savour the fresh, vegetal aroma with hints of citrus.
7. Enjoy Without Additions – Darjeeling first flush teas are best enjoyed plain, without milk or sugar, to appreciate their nuanced flavours.
8. Re-steeping – High-quality first flush teas can be re-steeped once or twice. Increase the steeping time by 30 seconds for each subsequent infusion to extract the remaining flavours.

By following these steps, tea enthusiasts can experience the full spectrum of aromas and tastes that make the 2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea truly exceptional.

Detailed Tasting Notes

The 2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea offers a refined and memorable tasting experience, showcasing the unique character of this celebrated estate’s early spring harvest in conjunction with the rich complexity often found in black tea.

• Appearance: The dry leaves are neat and vibrant, displaying a mix of green hues with silvery tips, indicative of careful plucking and expert processing. Once brewed, the liquor shines with a bright green-yellow colour, clear and inviting.
• Aroma: Upon infusion, the tea releases a fresh, uplifting aroma. Notes of young green leaves mingle with subtle floral undertones, reminiscent of spring meadows. A gentle hint of citrus zest adds a lively brightness to the bouquet.
• Flavour: The first sip reveals a distinctly vegetal profile, crisp and clean, with the freshness of tender shoots. This is complemented by a delicate sweetness and a soft, lingering floral note. As the tea develops on the palate, a subtle citrus nuance emerges, adding a refreshing twist without overpowering the core flavours.
• Mouthfeel: Light-bodied and smooth, the tea glides effortlessly across the palate. The finish is brisk and invigorating, leaving a pleasant, slightly astringent aftertaste that invites another sip.
• Overall Impression: The 2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea stands out for its clarity, freshness, and harmonious balance of flavours. Its lively vegetal notes, gentle floral hints, and touch of citrus make it a superb choice for those seeking a sophisticated and uplifting cup, perfectly capturing the essence of the Darjeeling spring.

To Conclusion

The 2025 Teesta Valley Darjeeling First Flush Tea is a shining example of Darjeeling’s renowned tea heritage. With its meticulously handpicked leaves, vibrant green-yellow liquor, and a flavour profile that balances fresh vegetal notes with a hint of citrus, this tea offers a truly distinguished tasting experience.

Carefully harvested and packed at peak freshness, it embodies the unique terroir and craftsmanship of the Teesta Valley Tea Estate. For tea enthusiasts seeking purity, elegance, and the invigorating spirit of the first spring harvest, this first flush stands as an exceptional and memorable choice.