The hills of Darjeeling produce the favorite beverage that everyone likes to savor. Darjeeling produces various types of teas – some white and green blends and recently, it also harvests oolong variety. But, by Darjeeling it only means the black tea. Now, there are diverse types in this black blend variety. When one plans to buy Darjeeling organic tea from some online seller, he must have complete knowledge of the different kinds.
People say that black blend is classified into three flushes; others say there are four. But, what is this flush? Is there any difference between the beverages of different flushes? Let’s find out. Having an idea of all these will help in picking the finest quality tea.
WHAT IS FLUSH?
Some refers “flush” to the act of harvest. However, it is actually the period of tea growing, the time when the plant develops new leaves. After that, harvesting takes place either by hand or with the help of machine.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT FLUSHES IN DARJEELING?
Darjeeling blends are classified into three major flushes –
i) First flush harvested from middle of March till May
ii) Second flush Darjeeling tea harvested from June to middle of August
iii) Third flush harvested from October till November
However, this harvesting period is not fixed. It is greatly dependent on the weather condition prevailing in Darjeeling.
What are the flavors of the different Darjeeling flush teas?
Let’s start with the third and count in the reverse order.
– First flush blends –the color of the brew grown in this season is bright light color liquor with floral fragrance and lively character.
– Second flush teas- it is dark color liquor having a strong flavor and fruity taste. The leaves of this season are purplish bloom. The favor of the blend during this season is that of muscatel grape
– Third flush Darjeeling brew – the color at this stage is coppery or dark but flavor is lighter. It has full bodied texture and sparkling character.
WHICH IS THE PRICIEST FLUSH?
The general view says that first flush Darjeeling tea is more costly thanthe other blends because of its lively character and bright color. Production of this variety is less than the supply and hence, the demand is always more.
However, tea connoisseurs as well as the Darjeeling tea fanatics are always ready to pay the premium price for a cup of first flush or second flush of this brew.
