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“I have to begin this review with a question. Has anyone ever noticed that first flush Darjeelings seem to be getting greener and greener? When I first tore into this packet, I was taken aback by...” Read full tasting note
Turzum is an estate located near one of our favorite second flush producers, Sungma. A part of the Jayshree company, who is known for reliably great tasting tea, this tea showcases some of the new style of sweet, tropical and fruity flavors that are characteristic of first flush Darjeelings. Unlike some of the other teas this season, Turzum’s body is much lighter, which is why we suggest a slightly longer brewing time.
Since 1983 Harney & Sons has been the source for fine teas. We travel the globe to find the best teas and accept only the exceptional. We put our years of experience to work to bring you the best Single-Estate teas, and blends beyond compare.
Darjeeling 1st Flush Turzum
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Imperial Teas of LincolnI have to begin this review with a question. Has anyone ever noticed that first flush Darjeelings seem to be getting greener and greener? When I first tore into this packet, I was taken aback by how green the leaves were. Most were a dark silvery and/or brownish olive. This was clearly going to be a different kind of first flush Darjeeling.
Due to the appearance of the leaves, I was concerned that the preparation I typically use for first flush Darjeelings would not work with this tea, so I decided to follow the vendor’s recommended preparation method to the letter. I steeped 1 teaspoon of loose tea leaves in 8 ounces of 175 F water for 5 minutes. I did not attempt any additional infusions.
Prior to infusion, the dry tea leaves emitted interesting aromas of guava, pineapple, mango, bee balm, and lemon balm. I did not pick up much in the way of Muscat. After infusion, the previously described aromas greatly intensified, though I was now able to pick up a subtle Muscat presence. In the mouth, the tea immediately produced a rush of lemon balm and bee balm flavors. Notes of mango, pineapple, guava, Muscat grape, and ripe papaya balanced by a touch of cream soon followed. The finish was very smooth and fruity, allowing lingering impressions of lemon balm, mango, papaya, Muscat, and pineapple to mingle.
This was an odd, though very satisfying Darjeeling. I had heard that there was a move toward sweeter, fruitier, lighter first flush teas among some estates, and I am assuming that this tea is an example of that trend. I have enough of it left to see how it reacts to a higher water temperature, so I will probably try this one again later and report back if I notice anything radically different. Definitely try this one. I wouldn’t call it the type of Darjeeling to reach for on a regular basis, but I think it would make a wonderful selection when something fruity is required.
Flavors: Cream, Fruity, Guava, Herbs, Mango, Muscatel, Pineapple, Sweet
Sounds interesting! I’ve not always been a fan of Darjeelings, they tend to be very sensitive beings, LOL.
Terri, I feel the same way about Darjeelings. They were some of my favorite teas when I was younger, but I hate how maddeningly fussy they are to brew. I have noticed that there never seems to be any guarantee that a preparation method that worked once will work consistently with the same tea. It drives me crazy.
I think I need to give this one a try. I adore Darjeeling! Darjeeling is my absolute favorite tea!
Margaret’s Hope first flush is quite green as well. I ordered some from Bellocq Tea Atelier – $$$$!! – But oh so good!
PS – Darjeeling is my tea soulmate, we seem to have similar temperaments. We can be a bit fickle and sensitive, but usually sweet. Not to mention classy! ;) LOL
Teatotaler, I think this one will be up your alley. Oddly, the last Margaret’s Hope tea I had appeared to be a little darker and more oxidized. I have never tried the one from Bellocq, though to be honest, I pretend Bellocq Tea Atelier doesn’t exist. My employer pays me in half-jars of mustard pickles and rolls of pennies, so it’s not like I can afford to order anything from them anyway.
Then I’m going to have to try Turzum. It’s about time for a Harney & Sons order. As a nurse, Bellocq is usually beyond my means as well!
Teatotaler, I work in a grant-funded education outreach program through a regional nonprofit community health organization. My pay and benefits relative to my qualifications are laughable at best. I’m unhappy in the position and considering quitting. I’ve given myself until Tuesday to decide whether or not I’m going to put in my notice.
I don’t blame you a bit, eastkyteaguy. I’ve been there myself. I work as a dementia care nurse and teach dementia care training classes at a nonprofit Catholic healthcare institution. For what I do, I am also woefully undercompensated. Completely stressed out too! I’m looking at making some changes pretty soon myself. I think that when you reach a certain point, quitting and moving on to something else is the necessary, and healthy thing to do. Sending positive vibes your way, my friend!
Teatotaler, thank you. I appreciate it.
Sending both of you good vibes!
What would you do if you could do whatever you wanted? Just curious.
So many people feel unfulfilled in their lives, but fear keeps us from moving forward.
Terri, if I had my way I would probably be writing full-time once again or perhaps working in media production. It took me until I was 31 to figure out that I’m not a dress up, go plug away at an office for 8 hours everyday type of person.
I hear you! I’m self-employed, and luckily I actually make a living playing and teaching music, because I’m not cut out for any other field, or for sitting behind a desk all day. They say being a musician is not a job, it’s Jobs, and I think I work harder than anyone I know, but I love it, so I’m happy. And I also get to sit around and drink tea in my PJs :)