Last year’s Castleton second flush was one of my favorite teas ever, so I had high expectations for this one. I’ve been careful brewing first flush darjeelings, using water under the boiling point and not letting the tea oversteep. Still, with this cup, there was some bitterness and the muscatel and floral notes were a little subdued, even with my penchant for using a hefty amount of leaf. Overall, it’s a nice, gardern variety first flush, but it didn’t impress me like the Thurbo and the Sungma did.
TD81: Castleton Estate FTGFOP1 Spl/Ch. First Flush
Black Tea by Upton Tea Imports
The Castleton estate is known for crafting top-notch Darjeeling teas. This offering is true to their reputation. The liquor has a fruity bouquet with hints of muscatel. The gentle, well-balanced cup is full of flavor, accentuated by a refreshing floral note.
