February 2025: Autumnal and Winter Indian Teas

This month, we invite you to savor a selection of autumnal and winter teas from Northeast India, each offering a rich mouthfeel and remarkable complexity. Unlike the teas from our previous January box, these have undergone shorter withering and have undergone higher-complete oxidation, creating a unique balance of depth and delicacy. Also, you will notice that these teas are not as bold as summer teas, yet they capture the beauty of the season in their own right—delicate, complex, and wonderfully rich.

As a special treat, we’ve included a Darjeeling First Flush First Pick, harvested on February 1st 2025 and immediately couriered to us—because when it comes to First Flush Darjeeling Teas, fresher is always better.

Donyi Polo Autumnal Golden Buds

A beautiful black tea from Arunachal Pradesh created by artisanal tea maker Junmoni is a delicate yet indulgent surprise. Unlike most golden buds, this one lacks the expected malt but instead offers an elegant sweetness, reminiscent of high-quality toffee, intertwined with floral and grassy notes. Its texture is silky, its body lighter than expected, yet its presence lingers beautifully.

Steeping Instructions:

190°F | 70-80 sec | 3 steeps

Remembrance – A Memory from Assam

This Assam tea evokes nostalgia with its familiar yet refined depth. It carries the warmth of honey, cocoa, and coffee, but with less malt than a traditional summer Assam, making it more delicate and best enjoyed without milk.

Steeping Instructions:

195°F | 45-50 sec (first), 40-45 sec (second), 50-60 sec (third)

Darjeeling Winter Oolong

A complex and intriguing oolong that evolves with every sip. Layers of buttery smoothness, hints of plum, a touch of green chili, and floral-grassy undertones make this a tea that surprises and delights.

Steeping Instructions:

185°F | 35 sec, 30 sec, 40 sec

Bonus Selection: First Flush First Pick Darjeeling

This rare first-pick Darjeeling, harvested on February 1st 2025, was immediately couriered to us to preserve its delicate florals and fresh vibrancy. Expect a lush mouthfeel with notes of cream, lilacs, green grass, wild honey, and soaked almonds. There is a wonderful silken texture with a lasting floral perfume.

Steeping Instructions:

185°F | 6g | 25 sec, 25 sec, 30 sec