One of the most famous teas in the world, often referred to as ‘the champagne of teas’, Darjeeling is loved and sought after by tea aficionados everywhere. This aromatic black tea comes from the foothills of the Himalayas in northern India. The name Darjeeling comes from the Tibetan for ‘Land of the Thunderbolt’ and the gardens have the stunning backdrop of Mount Kanchenjunga, one of the highest peaks in the world. Darjeeling also has a rich history and was one of the first teas to be produced outside of China.

For over three thousand years China had a monopoly on the production and sale of tea, and closely guarded this valuable commodity. The British wanted to grow their own tea in order to satisfy the increasing domestic demand, so in 1850 the East India Company sent a spy to infiltrate China and send viable tea plants to British ruled India. They chose the mountain retreat of Darjeeling as the perfect spot where they could establish their tea industry. What was once a tiny hamlet where British officers would take in the cool mountain air, is now one of the most prestigious tea growing areas in the world.

The high altitude and steep, rainy slopes of Darjeeling are the perfect conditions for the stolen Chinese tea plants. Production was hugely successful and soon the domestic British market were clamouring to get their hands on this premium tea. One hundred years later, the British have gone but many of the original Chinese tea plants remain in this historic tea producing region.

Darjeeling is known as ‘the champagne of teas’, and there are similarities with the famous sparkling wine. Firstly, Darjeeling teas have Protected Geographical Indication, meaning that only teas produced in this defined area can be sold under the name ‘Darjeeling’ – much like Champagne. Darjeeling focuses on high quality production, with a blend of traditional techniques and forward thinking biological management, meaning that this region only produces a small amount of tea – just 1% of Indian tea is produced here, but as with champagne, the goal is quality over quantity. The unique terroir of Darjeeling combined with the history and sought-after nature of this tea is why it has earned the name ‘the champagne of teas’.

The flavour profile of this black tea is musky sweet, with a distinctive muscatel aroma. The taste is slightly lighter than many traditional black teas, this allows the fragrant aroma to come to the fore. The magnificent terroir can be tasted in every cup, it is as though you can taste the mountain air with each sip. Warm and bright that is sure to please any tea lover.

Darjeeling is the ideal tea for an afternoon indulgence. Not as robust as a typical breakfast blend, but with enough character and fragrance to excite and delight the senses. Its musky honey sweetness is gently stimulating, and pairs perfectly with a sweet treat. Darjeeling was, and still is the perfect accompaniment to a traditional afternoon tea.

Any lover of black tea will be delighted by Darjeeling. For the ultimate experience of what this region has to offer, our Prime Darjeeling is one for the connoisseurs. We source the finest leaves from the most exclusive gardens to create the perfect expression of Darjeeling’s natural character.

Darjeeling Tea