Click to enlarge

Points Credit : 16 points Currently valued at $1.60

Avongrove Estate
Elevation: 2200 to 5800 feet
First Flush Tea

This tea is also available in bulk (2lbs bags), and in nylon tea pods

Avongrove Estate is a high elevation estate located above 2200 feet and rising up to 5800 feet elevation. This majestic estate once fell into disrepair and was closed for a period of time while the dispute was resolved in the courts. However, under the supervision of our uncle Mr. R.S. Tiwari, who was the superintendent of the garden for several years, the Avongrove Estate made a name for itself. Today, Avongrove is recognized as a quality mark among Darjeeling teas.

This particular tea is very delicate muscatel tea that produces light golden clear liquor with sweet fruity aroma. The green infusion is full of tips indicating the delicate nature of the leaf. Infact the infusion after a couple of steeps would be perfect for adding to your bread machine to bake "Tea bread"!

I particularly like the light jasmine aroma wafting from the cup of this tea which has ever so light astringency on the palate. If you prefer less astringency, then try the following...Let the boiled water sit on the stove for about 5 minutes. The temperature will drop down several degrees. At this point, add half a cup of water to one tea spoon tea in a tea pot and steep for only one minute. Strain the tea, and taste it. The liquor will be light whitish with no hint of astringency. Take a few sips, and brew another half cup when ready. This time brew for 1.5 minutes. Steep a couple more times, progressively increasing the steep time by 30 seconds or so.

Grade: FTGFOP1 China
Season: First Flush
Leaf: Longish black with hints of green
Liquor: Bright, clear golden
Infusion: Greenish tippy infusion

Click thumbnails below to see more pictures.