Jungpana (Upper) “Himalayan Mist” (DJ 9) First Flush Darjeeling 2024 Tea

About Upper Jungpana "Emerald Delight" First Flush Tea

The Jungpana Tea Garden Legend/History: “Legend has it that many years ago a British hunter was roaming the Himalayas with his faithful Gurkha Jung Bahadur by his side when they were attacked by a leopard.

In trying to save his master Jung Bahadur was severely mauled before his master dispensed with the beast. Jung Bahadur was weak and thirsty and asked his master for ‘pana’, or, water. He was carried to a nearby stream and given water to drink but died in his master’s arms soon thereafter.

Ever since that moment, the area has been known as JUNGPANA, or, where Jung Bahadur had his last drink of water. The tea estate planted later, carries the name till today.”

Living up to its name, Jungpana First Flush “Himalayan Mist” boasts a captivating visual symphony of emerald greens, hinting at the delightful experience to come. The dry leaves showcase a dominant greenish hue accented with a generous amount of silvery tips. They appear chunky, tightly rolled, and twisted, with a slightly wiry texture. A closer look reveals a beautiful blend of olive green, hints of brown, and even a touch of black. The aroma is a delicate dance of sweetness, characterized by subtle almondy or nutty notes with a touch of buttery richness. This sweetness is further complemented by honeyed tones. While a faint vegetal note is present, it’s easily overshadowed by the abundance of floral undertones. Hints of mild fruitiness, reminiscent of orange, intertwine with delicate rose-like florals, creating a truly captivating sensory experience.

The Jungpana Tea Garden’s “Himalayan Mist” features dry leaves that transition from green to a more dominant olive hue, with some brown leaves mixed in. Slender and somewhat cylindrical, the leaves have a slightly wiry appearance. The aroma offers a delightful mix of sweetness and a refreshing minty character. Interestingly, the chunky silver tips, or buds, transform into a wet texture reminiscent of a furry coat. The taste profile is both nutty, like almonds, and floral, with hints of marigold.

While many Darjeeling First Flush teas are known for their light, translucent cups and intense aroma, Jungpana’s offering follows suit. It brews a beautiful light golden infusion with a radiant shine. The initial flavor profile is sweet, reminiscent of honey, but with a lively character and a touch of astringency that creates a pleasant “bite” on the mid-tongue. Despite the dryness, the complexity shines through with a delightful blend of floral and nutty notes. Buttery and almond-like qualities intertwine with the floral character, culminating in a sweet and lingering aftertaste.

This exceptional Darjeeling First Flush hails from the renowned Jungpana Tea Estate, a favorite among tea connoisseurs in Japan and Korea. We, too, are captivated by the quality of the loose leaves and the exquisite taste it brews. Don’t miss this opportunity – quantities are strictly limited!