Darjeeling Phuguri “Himalayan Gold” 2023 First Flush Tea

Phuguri Tea Estate Darjeeling

It is always magical to watch the long tea leaves and buds unfold in water. For this reason, it is not recommended to use tea bags, as they prevent you from experiencing half of the enjoyment of drinking tea. The infusion has an overall greenish-pale yellow color and an overwhelming fresh floral bouquet that is thoroughly active, indicating the detailed and careful profile used in the manufacturing process to achieve the desired quality and flavor. The chunky silver tips turn pale yellowish-green and the downy fur appears to stick to the main body of the tea due to infusion. The tea imparts fresh floral notes with a somewhat nutty flavor.

Phuguri Himalayan Gold, like all Darjeeling First Flush clonals, has a lighter strength compared to other china varieties. Its bright liquor has a light-yellow color, resulting in a lively, fresh floral taste. The cup is smooth and well-balanced, with a brisk character and exceptional flavor. The taste is sweet, floral, and nutty, with a complex flavor profile that includes underlying floral and nutty characteristics. Mild vegetal notes are present, along with an overwhelming and lingering sweet aftertaste. The tea has mild and enjoyable astringency, with dryness on the tongue.

Phuguri Himalayan Gold is a top variety and rare tea from the Phuguri Tea Estate. It impressed us in 2017 and continues to do so this year. This Darjeeling tea is of “A” grade quality, with exceptional taste and quality. It is a marvelous tea that should not be missed. However, it is very limited in availability, so be sure to get your share before it runs out.