Origin: Darjeeling
Tea Estate: Jungpana
Colour: Black
Grade: F.T.G.F.O.P.1
Flush: First
Type: Single Estate
Weight: 100 grams
Length of infusion: 3 mins 30 seconds
Water temperature: 90°C
Dry leaves
Aspect: Crumpled leaves (gently rolled) with lots of silver buds
Colours: Light green, light black and some brown leaves that are rolled
Scents: A fruity bouquet of mongo, preserved citrus fruit, apricot syrup. A sweet, rose, floral note and toasted aromas
Brewed leaves (infusion)
Colours: Mainly green with touches of coppery brown
Scents: A rich, floral bouquet (rose), with almond (sweet almond), vanilla, butter (cake mixture, brioche) and fruit (yellow fruit, stewed mango in syrup)
Liquor
Colour: Clear, gleaming organge golden liquor
Texture: Smooth and full in the mouth
Flavour: Slightly sweet
Aromas: A sweet, very floral attack (white flowers, rose, lily) followed by fruit (yellow fruit), sweet vanilla and buttery notes
Aromatic profile and length in the mouth: Wonderfully long floral notes followed by planty, almond and herb notes. A fresh finish
Our verdict: When you talk about Vintage Darjeeling, you talk about Jungpana; a tea which is found in prestigious outlets worldwide and even enjoyed by the Royal family of the UK. Although this comes from China plants which usually produces teas with almondy qualities, this lot from Jungpana has an impressive floral bouquet which is wonderfully varied and subtle. It is a true Darjeeling connoisseuir’s delight.