Darjeeling, Arya Ruby 1st Flush Organic Black Tea

Arya Ruby is a limited production first flush Darjeeling tea. I learned early on that the only way to ensure that I would get this tea was to order directly from Arya Estate before first flush.  As in the world of wine, a product’s allure is only increased by its lack of availability! Given the adverse growing conditions in Darjeeling this last winter and the subsequent production shortages I am fortunate to have placed my order early! First flush Darjeeling teas are prized for their light brisk flavor that is ever so delicate, yet mildly intense. They are highly aromatic and rich in complexity. In a normal year these are among the most expensive teas in the world. This, however, has not been a normal year and given the adverse growing conditions in Darjeeling this spring, we are fortunate to have obtained this excellent tea! (For more about this year's adverse conditions please see our "Background" notes.) The majority of first flush teas in Darjeeling tend to be on the green side--not fully oxidized. The fairly small leaf produces a light, clear, somewhat week cup with pronounced floral notes and a mild astringency that can be somewhat bitter, a characteristic that is much appreciated by first flush enthusiasts. Ruby, on the other hand, is most definitely a black tea.  The chocolate brown leaves have a strikingly sweet fragrance and they possess a definite bloom. The carefully plucked whole leaves are extremely well rolled and twisted with abundant gold and silver tips giving them a more refined appearance than in previous years. Overall, the superior processing is highly apparent. The aroma of the dry leaf is still unusually rich and full, sweet and honey-like with touch of ripe peach and tropical flowers with citrus overtones. Arya Ruby always has some cup strength regardless of the flush or season and this first flush Ruby is no exception.  It has a lovely amber liquor that is very flavorful. Every sip is smooth and full bodied, refined and complex. The fruitiness of the aroma carries over to the cup with notes of citrus, ripe peaches and a bare hint of camphor. There is just the smallest trace of astringency with absolutely no bitterness. The flavors turn quite floral and delicate in the mouth with a lingering sweet refreshing after-taste. Origin: Darjeeling, India Ingredients: Artisan Black Tea