Liza Hill Moonshine Tea – 2025 Limited Second Flush Darjeeling

About Liza Hill Tea Estate Clonal Moonshine

We recently had the pleasure of sampling a wide variety of 2025 Second Flush Darjeeling teas from several renowned estates under the esteemed Jayshree Tea Ltd. group. Among the many impressive offerings, one tea stood out distinctly—Liza Hill Tea Estate’s Moonshine, a premium Second Flush clonal variety that completely won us over with its exquisite full-bodied character and intricate flavor profile.

This particular batch hails from a special cultivation zone within the estate known as “Bas Bari”, a section dedicated exclusively to the nurturing of high-quality clonal bushes. The superior genetics of the tea plants in this area result in an outstanding infusion, and the 2025 harvest did not disappoint. Captivated by its depth and elegance, we didn’t hesitate—we brought it home. And now, we’re excited to share it with you.

Liza Hill Tea Estate Moonshine – A Jewel of Darjeeling

Though now celebrated as a standalone name in the Darjeeling tea world, Liza Hill Tea Estate was originally a division of the famed Risheehat Tea Estate. Over time, Liza Hill was set apart due to its exclusive focus on clonal plantations—a deliberate move to showcase and separate the finest clonal teas under its own identity. Prior to 1963, Liza Hill even had its own factory and functioned as an independent tea garden. Post-1963, while administratively merged, the teas from this region continued to be marketed distinctly as “Liza Hill Tea”, given their exceptional quality and unique flavor profiles.

The estate’s reputation for producing top-tier clonal teas remains unchallenged, and in 2025, it once again lived up to its legacy. During our tasting session, Mr. Rajiv Kumar, an expert from the estate, presented us with an array of samples from both Risheehat and Liza Hill. While many were impressive, one specific invoice — EX-47 – of Liza Hill Tea’s Moonshine variety captivated our senses entirely. It was, without question, the finest expression of clonal craftsmanship we experienced that day.

The dry leaves of Liza Hill Moonshine Tea are a visual delight. Each leaf is meticulously twisted and rolled, showcasing expert craftsmanship. The overall appearance is rich chocolate-brown, interspersed with a generous sprinkling of silvery tips—clear indicators of high-grade plucking and careful manufacturing.

The aroma of the dry leaf is immediately captivating. A sweet, chocolatey warmth rises as soon as the pouch is opened, reminiscent of dark cocoa layered with soft caramel undertones. As you inhale deeper, subtle fruity layers emerge—ripe stone fruits and dried berries—with a gentle nuttiness trailing in the background. The combination creates a heady, comforting bouquet that promises a luxurious tea experience even before the brew begins.

Upon infusion, the leaves of the Liza Hill Moonshine Tea take on a beautiful, even coppery hue. The infusion is lively and balanced, with a mix of light and dark brown leaves unfurling gracefully in the pot. These wet leaves release a highly aromatic profile—fruity, slightly floral, and gently nutty, with a whisper of honeyed sweetness that rounds out the complexity.

Each sniff reveals more: hints of toasted almonds, a touch of orange blossom, and an undercurrent of muscatel—signatures of Darjeeling’s prized Second Flush season. The brightness of the infusion indicates freshness, while the depth of aroma suggests maturity in the leaf. It’s a sensory tapestry that elevates the brewing ritual.

The liquor of Liza Hill Tea Estate Moonshine pours out a vivid coppery-red color—deep, warm, and inviting. The strength of the cup is remarkable for a clonal variety. It possesses a notable heft and body, yet retains the brisk liveliness that Darjeeling teas are known for.

At a 3-minute brew time, the cup yields a beautiful harmony of flavor. You’ll notice a mild biscuity foundation, followed by layers of caramel, roasted nuts, and subtle fruit—think apricots and dark cherries. There’s also a fine muscatel touch that lingers softly on the palate. Despite its complexity, the liquor remains smooth and mellow, never overwhelming.

We recommend steeping for about 3 minutes to appreciate the balance of flavor and aroma. A longer brew—up to 5 minutes—can intensify the strength, but may also bring out a slight bitterness. That said, experimenting with steep time can unlock different flavor dimensions of this tea.

Final Thoughts – A Limited Treasure from Liza Hill Tea Estate

Liza Hill Moonshine Second Flush 2025 is a limited edition tea that exemplifies the classic beauty of Darjeeling’s finest clonal harvests. With its stunning aroma, elegant mouthfeel, and layered taste profile, this is a must-have for serious tea enthusiasts and curious sippers alike.

Teas of this caliber don’t linger long. The uniqueness of the Bas Bari section and the handcrafted nature of the Moonshine variety make this an exclusive offering that’s bound to disappear quickly. We are delighted to share this exceptional tea with you, and we sincerely hope it captures your heart just as it did ours.

Experience the magic of Liza Hill Tea through this unforgettable 2025 Second Flush Moonshine.