The owner of Margaret’s Hope named this most famous of tea gardens after his beloved daughter, after she died before being able to fulfil her long-cherished dream of returning to this beautiful area.
Margaret's Hope, near Kurseong in Southern Darjeeling, is at an elevation of 2000m. This is high, and, as a rule, in Darjeeling (and tea generally), higher is better - the tea bushes grow more slowly and develop better flavour.
The 1st flush or harvest occurs from late March to early April. It is fuller-flavoured than the 2nd flush but still with the notable delicacy and refinement associated with this garden, with plenty of nutty muscatel evident.
To brew, put one tsp per person in a warmed pot or Mug Infuser and add freshly drawn boiling water. Brew lightly for 2 mins and serve without milk or sugar.