Barnesbeg FTGFOP1 Himalayan Queen 2024 Second Flush

About Barnesbeg Himalayan Queen 2024

The Barnesbeg Tea Estate, founded in 1877 by Christine Barnes, is a historic producer of both black and green teas in Darjeeling, India. Located 15-17 kilometers from Darjeeling in the Lebong Valley, the estate’s tea bushes thrive at elevations ranging from 300 to 1260 meters. Currently owned and managed by the Goodricke Group, Barnesbeg is known for its commitment to sustainable practices, having earned certifications as organic, Fair Trade, and Rainforest Alliance certified. While they do produce black teas, the estate seems to have gained a particular reputation for the quality of their green teas.

Barnesbeg estate has earned a reputation for its exquisite orthodox teas. Their black teas, in particular, are known for their full-bodied character, offering a delightful dance of flavors. A sip can unveil delicate fruity notes, a touch of buttery richness, and the intriguing muscatel character, a signature note prized by tea connoisseurs. While Barnesbeg offers a variety of green teas as well, their black teas truly captured our attention. Among the selection presented by the manager, a mix of green, white, black, and even oolong teas, the “Himalayan Queen” stood out. This particular black tea boasted chunky leaves adorned with an abundance of silver tips, a visual promise of the robust and fruity liquor it brewed.

Discerning tea lovers are enthralled by the 2024 Darjeeling Second Flush Himalayan Queen, a testament to its exceptional quality. The dry leaves – bold, tightly rolled, and elegantly twisted – boast a rich chocolate brown and deep green hue, adorned with an abundance of delicate silver and golden tips. This meticulous craftsmanship and preservation promise an exquisite visual and taste experience. The aroma is a delightful dance of sweetness, reminiscent of warm chocolate, intertwined with enticing fruity notes and a pleasing caramel-like fragrance that evokes both comfort and a touch of intrigue. A delightful nutty undertone adds another layer of complexity. This Second Flush Darjeeling is undoubtedly a shining example of utmost quality, delivering a truly delicious journey for tea aficionados.

Steeping this tea unveils a captivating infusion, boasting a striking coppery hue as captured in the accompanying photo. The consistency throughout the liquor is remarkable, with the blend of light and dark brown leaves creating a vibrant visual. Beyond its appearance, the inherent quality of the tea shines through in the captivating and intricate aroma. The fragrance leans towards a delightful fusion of fruity and nutty notes, each perfectly balanced and intertwining to create a truly alluring sensory experience. A subtle hint of sweetness accompanies this remarkable blend, further enhancing its overall appeal and hinting at the complex flavor journey that awaits the discerning tea drinker.

This Darjeeling Second Flush presents a full-bodied cup, boasting a captivating reddish-orange hue reminiscent of burnished copper. The color itself delights the senses, hinting at the invigorating character that awaits. However, a word of caution: a full five-minute steep might lead to a touch of bitterness. Experimenting with a three-minute infusion is recommended, though personal preference can guide steeping times to achieve the perfect balance. Beyond the visual appeal, the tea unfolds a delightful symphony of flavors. Mild, biscuity notes intertwine with hints of caramel, juicy fruits, and a touch of nuttiness. Remarkably, the full-bodied character is balanced by a smooth and mellow texture, creating a truly delightful experience for the discerning tea drinker. Each sip unfolds a layer of intricate flavors, a testament to the high quality of this exceptional Second Flush.

Hailing from the esteemed Barnesbeg estate, renowned for its coveted First and Second Flushes, this particular Darjeeling tea stands out even within their distinguished collection. A true gem sought after by tea connoisseurs, it demands attention and transcends mere consumption. It’s an experience waiting to be savored, a testament to the meticulous care and expertise poured into its creation. Each sip promises to unveil the true value and worth of this exceptional and exclusive offering.