What is First Flush tea and how is it produced?
First Flush tea is the name of a special tea that comes out of the first harvest period of the year. This tea is transported within a very short period of time after production. The idea of First Flush tea originated in the 1960s, where tea lovers wanted to enjoy fresh tea as soon as possible after the winter break.
The tea is made from the first tea leaves picked in spring, hence the name "First Flush". The tea leaves are picked by hand and only the youngest leaves are used. The tea may only be harvested when the tea leaves are ripe enough. The tea leaves are carefully processed to preserve the delicate flavour and aroma. First, the tea leaves are picked by hand, then they are taken to the factory where they are spread on large sheets to be withered. After withering, the leaves are rolled to release juices and aromas. After this, the leaves are exposed to air to promote oxidation and then they are heated to stop further oxidation. First Flush tea has a lighter colour, a delicate flavour and a subtle aroma described as floral and fruity. The First Flush tea is more expensive than any other tea, this because it is truly handcrafted, there is limited amount of it and it is in high demand.
The Darjeeling First Flush tea is a classic among First Flush teas. This is one of the most appreciated and praised teas by lovers from all over the world. The tea has a lighter colour, floral flavour and a delicious astringency and fresh muskiness.
Why is First Flush tea transported and delivered in a box?
First Flush tea is transported in a box to preserve the quality of the tea leaves. This provides the optimum protection of the tea during transport and protects the leaves from damage. The box is made of wood, and this is covered with fabric to properly protect the tea leaves from light. The wood also provides natural protection against moisture, as the humidity inside can be regulated. This keeps the leaves dry and thus of the highest quality.
The box is also a very practical way to transport First Flush tea, as they are in fact compact and stackable. This makes them easy to store and transport. This way, the method of transport does not compromise on quality. In the end, of course, that is the most important thing. Because then we can enjoy the tea at its best!
First Flush or Second Flush?
We have a First Flush and a Second Flush tea, but what is the difference? The main difference between the teas is when the tea leaves are picked. First Flush tea is harvested in early spring, namely in March or April, and it consists of the first new sprouts of the tea plant. The leaves are young and contain a lot of flavour and aroma compounds. This results in a light tea with a floral and fruity flavour.
Second Flush is harvested in summer, namely in June or July, and consists of the second growth cycle of the tea plant. As a result, the leaves are fuller and have a stronger aroma and flavour than those of the First Flush tea. The Second Flush tea has a more full-flavoured, musky and fruity flavour with hints of honey, nuts and chocolate.
So, it is entirely up to your taste, which tea you choose. If you want a First Flush tea, choose a Darjeeling First Flush. Yet if you prefer a Second Flush tea, choose the Darjeeling Summer Flush.
