Namring (Upper) FTGFOP1 (CL) (DJ 3) Darjeeling First Flush 2024

Namring (Upper) Tea Estate First Flush

Nestled amidst the majestic slopes of Darjeeling, Upper Namring Tea Garden isn’t just a plantation, it’s a legacy. Established in 1855, it boasts the title of one of India’s oldest and largest tea estates. But what truly sets Upper Namring apart is its exquisite teas, cultivated with tradition and nurtured by the unique Himalayan climate.

Upper Namring sits at an impressive altitude, with its highest reaches scaling up to 1700 meters (5,577 feet). This elevation plays a crucial role in the character of its teas. The cooler temperatures cause slower growth, resulting in leaves packed with flavor. Here, you’ll find a blend of tea bushes – China, Assam hybrids, and clonals – each contributing its own note to the final cup.

Upper Namring prides itself on its heritage. The estate is still divided into Upper and Lower divisions, encompassing three tea gardens – Poomong, Jingiam, and Namring itself. The meticulous care given to the cultivation and processing is evident in the final product. Whether you enjoy a pale golden liquor with a first flush harvest or a darker brew from a later picking, each cup promises a taste of history and a true Darjeeling experience.

The furry white bloom underscores the significant attention and care invested in this tea’s production. The leaves present a greenish-white hue, dominated by silver tips that resemble elongated snow buds. These are some of the decent sized tea leaves from the first flush 2024 season, notable for their size and well-twisted shape. A sheen from minute silver hairs is visible on nearly all the leaves, highlighting an abundance of silver tips that rival the greens in number. Upon opening the pouch, one is greeted with a robust floral and floral aroma. Further assessment reveals that this Upper Namring tea possesses a sweet vanilla essence with a hint of lemon and a subtly nutty character.

The enchanting transformation of these robust, elongated dry leaves as they unfurl in hot water is captivating. They possess a vibrant, jade-like hue that adds to their allure. The aroma is distinctly fresh, indicative of meticulous processing to achieve the intended quality and taste. Upon steeping in hot water, the white tips evolve into a deeper green, enhancing the jade-like appearance. The infusion releases subtle vegetal notes along with a delicate floral and fruity fragrance.

The cup’s strength is milder compared to other Darjeeling First Flush teas sampled. The liquor boasts a shimmering light-yellow hue, yielding a vibrant, fresh taste. Its briskness is pure, showcasing an exceptional flavor. The tea presents a smooth sip with a harmonious body, delicately balancing sweet and subtle salty notes. It possesses a distinct point, enriched by the complex undertones of various fruits and flowers, and offers gentle almond hints, contributing to its nutty character. Prominent sweet vegetal notes are also detectable. The experience concludes with a persistent sweet aftertaste and a very slight and enjoyable astringency in the cup.

Discovering a top-notch quality tea from Namring (Upper) Tea Estate is a rewarding experience. For those who appreciate the fine teas of Darjeeling, this estate offers an exemplary selection. The price reflects the “A” grade quality and meticulous manufacturing process. It’s a tea that should not be missed! Namring (Upper) Tea Estate, indeed, stands out in this regard.