Margarets Hope Darjeeling Tea "Black Diamond"

Margaret’s Hope Darjeeling Tea “Black Diamond” 2025 is one of those extraordinary teas that a garden crafts in a minuscule batch to proudly showcase its finest seasonal quality. This is not a regular harvest – it’s a Super Specialty Second Flush tea, crafted as a Private Reserve to represent the pinnacle of excellence from Margaret’s Hope Tea Estate. The DJ-289 invoice is a rare treasure and has not been produced since 2023 – making its comeback in 2025 a momentous event. With a rich, fruity aroma and a full-bodied cup that stirs the senses, this tea is a true Darjeeling masterpiece –  a “Black Diamond” in every sense. If you’re seeking a tea that’s both exclusive and unforgettable, this is the one not to miss.

A Benchmark Among Darjeeling Teas – What Makes “Black Diamond” Special?

Every year, the finest tea gardens of Darjeeling – about 87 in total — strive to produce one standout tea that sets a benchmark for that season. For 2025, Margaret’s Hope Tea Estate has outdone itself with this exceptionally limited DJ-289 batch made from the finest AV2 clonal leaves. “Black Diamond” is a dream tea that represents the estate’s legacy and expertise. Unlike regular batches that are distributed across markets, this DJ-289 invoice is exclusively available through us – not shared with any other vendor. If you’re sipping this tea, you’re among a privileged few. It’s not just tea – it’s an elevated experience, a celestial cup worthy of the name “Black Diamond.” Don’t wait too long – this is a tea that sells out quickly due to its rarity.

The dry leaves of Margaret’s Hope Black Diamond 2025 are a stunning example of meticulous handcrafting. Plucked from the garden’s most prized AV2 clonal section, the leaves are long, wiry, and well-twisted, exuding a vibrant luster that reflects expert handling. The color palette is a beautiful mix of chocolate brown, golden yellow, and subtle dark olive, making the leaf appearance both artistic and inviting. But what truly sets it apart is the heavy abundance of silver and golden tips, which not only add to the visual appeal but also contribute to its superior cup quality.

As you bring the dry leaf closer, a layered aroma unfurls — rich, deep, and fruity. Notes of cocoa, fresh mint, toasted almonds, and sun-ripened fruits like apricot and plum intertwine seamlessly. This bouquet is neither overpowering nor faint — it strikes a perfect balance that signals the complexity awaiting in the cup. These are not just leaves — they’re a visual and aromatic prelude to something truly exceptional.

Once infused, the transformation is remarkable. The wet leaves unfurl gracefully, occupying the entire lid of a tasting set, showing off their size, structure, and careful handling. The color of the infusion is predominantly coppery-brown, punctuated by pale golden and silvery buds, now soft and luminous — a result of meticulous oxidation and processing.

The aroma of the infusion is layered and expressive, releasing sweet floral notes with hints of citrus zest, particularly a lemony brightness. There’s also a lingering nutty fragrance, reminiscent of roasted hazelnuts or almond skins. Beneath the surface, you’ll discover subtle tones of stone fruits and honey, giving the infusion a complex, comforting scent profile.

This infusion is not only a treat for the senses but also offers insight into the skill behind the plucking and processing — where each leaf and bud remains identifiable and intact, representing the integrity and craftsmanship of this batch.

The cup of Margaret’s Hope Black Diamond 2025 is where the story truly comes alive. It brews into a bright golden-red liquor, clean and luminous, with a soft, glowing warmth. This tea is brisk and vibrant, yet it delivers its complexity with remarkable finesse. Compared to chinary teas, which often lean toward strength and smaller leaf size, this clonal tea offers elegance, body, and nuanced character, thanks to its broader, more mature leaves.

On the palate, the tea opens with a gentle natural sweetness, followed by a crescendo of nutty warmth and fruity brightness. You may notice flavors reminiscent of ripe apples, pineapple, peach, and even soft raisin, followed by a smooth almond finish. The mouthfeel is round, silky, and refreshing, leaving behind a subtle, lingering aftertaste that invites you for another sip.

Whether you enjoy it plain or paired with light foods, the liquor of Black Diamond provides a balanced and luxurious experience, ideal for both casual appreciation and meditative sipping.

Final Thoughts – Taste the Legacy in Every Sip

Margaret’s Hope Darjeeling Tea “Black Diamond” DJ-289 is an embodiment of the estate’s mastery in producing world-class Second Flush teas. This 2025 edition is one of the highest-grade teas the garden has produced in recent years. For tea connoisseurs and serious Darjeeling lovers, this is a must-try experience that encapsulates the beauty, richness, and rarity of Darjeeling’s summer harvest. We urge you to experience this Private Reserve Black Diamond while it’s still available – it’s truly worth every penny and every moment you spend savoring it. Those who tried our ’23 version of the Black Diamond know about its quality and exclusivity. Note that these kind of teas do not stay on our racks forever; so Hurry and Grab your share!

Water

Use plain filtered or spring water abundance in oxygen. Do not re-use already boiled water for the taste may appear flat.

Temperature

It can be from 203-212 Degree F. Classic Second Flush clones are more delicate than its china varieties. If your water is too hot, let it cool down for a while.

Quantity of Tea leaves

Standard procedure says 2.5 grams per 100 ml of water, but may not be correct as it is complex due to different cultivars, leaf sizes and make. For classic clones which are smaller than the specialized clones, it is recommended that you use 1 teaspoonful of tea. Experiment with some more, but if the tea leaves are greater, there is a chance of tea becoming bitter. Clones such as these are less better than its china varieties.

Steeping Time

Steeping time for this tea is 3-4 minutes.