Special features in location, cultivation, and processing
The Guranse Estate is one of the highest tea gardens in the world. Nestled in the highlands of Hile, in Nepal’s eastern Dhankuta province, it has ideal climatic conditions. The altitude creates a stimulating environment with pronounced temperature differences between day and night, and while rainfall can be heavy, the slopes provide excellent natural drainage.
The estate’s most exquisite product is Nepal First Flush tea – the first harvest of the year, usually taking place between March and May. This harvest is regarded as the finest, as the young, tender shoots, revived after winter dormancy, are especially rich in flavour and secondary plant compounds.
What makes this particular tea special is that it is crafted entirely from buds. The bud is the most delicate and aromatic part of the tea plant, and bud teas are often considered the pinnacle of a tea garden’s production.
Processing follows a series of carefully executed steps. First, only the top bud is hand-picked. After harvesting, the buds are gently spread out and allowed to wither for several hours, either in the open air or under controlled ventilation. Compared to black teas from other regions, the withering stage here is unusually long, owing to the unique high-mountain terroir. This extended withering is key to the distinctive aromatic profile of Nepali black teas.
After withering, the buds are rolled by machine, breaking open the cell walls and initiating oxidation. For Nepal First Flush teas, oxidation is usually kept to a minimum in order to preserve the freshness and lightness of their aromas. Finally, the buds are gently dried to lock in their texture and fine fragrance.
Single Origin
This tea is sourced from the above-mentioned tea farm in Hile, Nepal, directly from the tea farmer.
Organic Certification
PL-EKO-01
Nicht-EU-Landwirtschaft
