Margaret’s Hope Red Oolong (DJ-250) Darjeeling Second Flush 2024 – A New Release

Margaret's Hope Red Oolong Tea

Margaret’s Hope has consistently delivered exceptional Second Flush teas, setting a high standard in the industry. Our anticipation for this year’s harvest was, as always, palpable. While our initial intent was to procure Muscatel varieties, fate intervened, leading us to the extraordinary “Margaret’s Hope Speciality” and the estate’s inaugural Red Oolong.

Having previously savored Margaret’s Hope’s exquisite white teas, we were eager to explore the estate’s potential in crafting oolongs. This Red Oolong has undeniably exceeded our expectations. It is a testament to the garden’s unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. The tea’s intricate tapestry of fruity notes is a symphony orchestrated by skilled hands and a profound understanding of the tea-making process. The Red Oolong is more than just a beverage; it is an experience that encapsulates the essence of Margaret’s Hope.

The dry leaf of Margaret’s Hope Red Oolong is a manifestation of the estate’s commitment to quality. As with all of Margaret’s Hope Specialty teas, this limited edition boasts generously proportioned leaves adorned with a profusion of delicate buds and tips. The tea presents a captivating appearance, characterized by substantial, richly hued brown leaves. Intermingled amongst these are copious quantities of lustrous, chunky silver and golden tips, each tipped with a shimmering halo of fine, silvery or golden hairs. The leaves exhibit a voluminous character, a distinct departure from the compact nature of Chinese varieties, a consequence of their ample size. A beguiling aroma, sweet and gentle as honey, precedes the brewing experience. Beneath this initial sweetness lies a complex tapestry of fruity fragrances, offering a tantalizing prelude to the sensory journey that awaits.

The infusion of Margaret’s Hope Red Oolong is a captivating spectacle. Where the dry leaf presented a spectrum of browns, the wet leaf unfurls into a vibrant reddish-brown color, an unequivocal hallmark of a true Darjeeling Second Flush. The infusion’s hue, irrespective of the dry leaf’s coloration, is a testament to the tea’s provenance and the season of its harvest. Intermingled within this rich tapestry are delicate strands of yellow-brown, interspersed with verdant hues, a visual representation of the tea’s two-leaf-and-bud composition. A beguiling aroma, reminiscent of a harmonious blend of sweet plum and jaggery, emanates from the infused leaves. It is often said that the quality of the brewed tea is foreshadowed by the appearance of the infused leaf. In this instance, the lively and radiant character of the wet leaf promises a truly exceptional cup.

The liquor of Margaret’s Hope Red Oolong is a captivating interplay of depth and delicacy. While the dry leaf’s brownish hue might suggest a robust infusion, this oolong presents a cup that is full-bodied yet remarkably light, a departure from the richer profiles often associated with Chinese counterparts. The brew itself is a luminous golden-red, imbued with a radiant vitality. Each sip is a kaleidoscope of fruity notes, punctuated by a pleasing sweetness that dances across the palate. The cup is characterized by a comforting smoothness and mellowness, a gentle embrace for the senses. Beneath these qualities lies a unique flavor profile, combining subtle lemon zest with the sweetness of honey, and further enriched by subtle nutty undertones. The finish is a delightful juxtaposition of brackish salinity and lingering sweetness, creating a truly memorable tasting experience.

Margaret’s Hope Red Oolong is a pioneering creation from the esteemed Margaret’s Hope Tea Garden, proudly gracing their collection of Specialty Darjeeling Teas. A testament to the expertise of Margaret’s Hope tea artisans, this oolong exhibits an exceptional maturity of flavor and character. As one of the first to experience this extraordinary tea, you are invited to embark on a sensory journey that will undoubtedly elevate your appreciation for the artistry of tea making. Savor each moment of this exceptional cuppa.