What is Darjeeling tea?

There is an incredible number of types of tea around the world. One of the strongholds of tea cultivation is Asia, and India in particular is renowned for its teas. It is here that the famous Darjeeling tea originates. The Darjeeling region is located in the Indian state of West Bengal, but the tea has become known across the globe.

India began growing tea commercially in the 1800s, when the British faced difficulties importing tea from China. Around the same time, a surgeon named Dr. Campbell began experimenting with planting tea seeds in his garden in Darjeeling. From this, the foundation was laid for what would later become India’s most famous tea: Darjeeling.

First Flush – tea's answer to champagne

Darjeeling tea is harvested four times a year, and First Flush refers to the very first spring harvest after the tea plants have rested through the winter. The harvest takes place from late February to mid-April and is followed by a careful and intricate production process.

First Flush is often called “the champagne of teas” and is eagerly awaited each year by tea enthusiasts. The unique soil conditions and the humid climate of Darjeeling create the perfect environment for a tea that is light, elegant, yet wonderfully complex.

First Flush Darjeeling is highly valued among tea connoisseurs and is considered one of the most fascinating teas in the world. It is best described as lighter and less fermented than most black teas, yet more complex than green teas.

The production of Darjeeling tea

Producing Darjeeling tea is a complex process that differs from conventional tea production. The leaves are harvested with great care, usually two leaves and one bud per picking. The process is so delicate that around 22,000 shoots are required to produce just one kilo of tea.

The leaves are then withered, rolled, and sifted to separate the finer grades. To achieve Darjeeling’s distinctive flavour, the leaves undergo fermentation, which develops the tea’s signature aroma. The final step is an additional drying process, where the leaves are gently transported on a conveyor belt at 115–120°C for 20–30 minutes. Once ready, the leaves are sorted by size and packed.

Buy First Flush Darjeeling tea at Nordic Tea

Would you like to experience the much-admired First Flush Darjeeling tea? Explore our selection and find your favourite. And if you are curious about more teas from India, discover our wide range of Indian teas .