It has been too long since I’ve had a fresh off the shipment first flush Darjeeling.
Much. Too. Long.

The dry leaf here smells like fruit and flowers. Like a springtime picnic with fruit salad and warm sun out in the garden.

The wet leaf on the other hand is like a Summertime garden in full riot. Overwhelming aromas of fully ripe fruits and vegetables and the deep greens of the plants themselves competing with ornamental flowers as well as the flowers of fruit not yet formed. You know you are on the brink of a heady cup, here.

The steeped liqueur is the color of light amber, like honey in a sunbeam.

On the tongue the riot is somewhat calmed, but this is still bold stuff. There is a rapid onset of astringency which dries the tongue and mouth and prevents any long lingering unpleasantness — which can be a problem with some sweet teas.

This is what first flush madness is all about. I fully expect this leaf to be completely different after a month in the tin. I fully expect the second flush from the same garden to be completely different. In fact, I need to be sure to order it when it comes out just to compare them.

As Upton teas go, this isn’t a cheap one. But if you have an affinity for “the champagne of teas”, be sure to get in on this year’s first flush. They are fantastic.

(random aside, I’m starting a blog about non-tea related serious things. you can find the URL in my profile if you’re interested in reading it.)

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gmathis

I peeked at the blog. You have some very thoughtfully written pieces! Well done.

Charles Thomas Draper

Great review. I enjoy your unbiased opinions. No yikes here

Jim Marks

Heh. I just found that review completely overwhelming to read.

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gmathis

I peeked at the blog. You have some very thoughtfully written pieces! Well done.

Charles Thomas Draper

Great review. I enjoy your unbiased opinions. No yikes here

Jim Marks

Heh. I just found that review completely overwhelming to read.

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You can hear the music I compose here:
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