This sublime blend is one of our favourites. The rich, malty pungency of Assam and the subtle, restrained elegance of Darjeeling are perfect partners, and the marriage is a very successful one. Two individually wonderful teas, one from each of the two great tea-producing regions of India, are combined to create a masterpiece that is, remarkably, greater than the sum of its parts.
Darjeeling, the "champagne of teas", is famous for its light, delicate subtlety. It is bright, refreshing and vibrant, with a beautiful pale golden colour in the cup. Darjeeling is in the North-East of India, high in the foothills of the Himalayas, and the high elevation, the unique soil and the climate of that region are all important in producing teas that are unique in the world.
If Darjeeling is the Champagne of teas then Assam is the Bordeaux. Also in the NE of India, but down in the low-lying flood plains of the Brahmaputra Valley, Assam produces teas with a deep amber liquor, a strong, rich, malty flavour and hearty, dominant character.
Blending these two Indian teas seems to bring out the best in both of them. Assam's strength is softened and mellowed by Darjeeling's freshness and elegance, and the subtler flavours and aromas of Darjeeling seem to be enhanced rather than swamped by the Assam.
The result is a blend of spectacular depth of character. The teas used in this blend both have a good sized, neat leaf with good amounts of golden tip. Each mouthful seems to yield new insights into the relationship between the two constituent teas. The tea is refreshing, warming, comforting and invigorating, all at the same time. Perhaps for this reason, many English Breakfast blends have been produced over the years consisting of only Assam and Darjeeling in various proportions, and in fact a few still are. It is as suitable as a morning "wake-up" drink as it is for sipping during a moment of relaxation during a busy (or a lazy!) afternoon.
For this reason we recommend this blend as both a special treat and as a "general-purpose" tea of the very highest quality. As we have often said, the simple things in life are the best - but only if the simple things are also very, very good.
An ESSENTIAL tea.
To enjoy at its best put one teaspoon per person into a warmed pot and add fresh, boiling water. Allow to brew for 4 minutes then strain into mugs or cups. This blend is best drunk with milk (and sugar if desired).
If you love our Darjeeling and Assam Blend we suggest you try one of our Single Estate Assams or Darjeelings. There are quite a few to choose from - have a browse and see if any take your fancy. The Margaret's Hope Estate produces one of the most famous Single Estate Darjeelings and every serious tea enthusiast should try it at least once!
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