Finally, Makaibari First Flush samples were delivered today via Fed Ex. We all breathed a sigh of relief. Similar to last year, the spring showers were again delayed this year and the harvest was nowhere to be seen. But thankfully, the 2010 season has finally begun and I eagerly cupped the teas and they were everything I had hoped they would be - floral with a slight astringency with a soft pine note. Four lots were included - DJ 3, 5, 6 & 7. This translates to the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th lots manufactured this year. The pictures show you the actually cupping procedure - the cup balanced on the bowl with the leaf still in it, the infused leaf on the upturned lid and actual tea of each lot, and one of just the infused leaf to show you the distinct green hue that is the hallmark of a good Darjeeling first flush.
I should be air-freighting a few lots within a few weeks.
Finally, Makaibari First Flush samples were delivered today via Fed Ex. We all breathed a sigh of relief. Similar to last year, the spring showers were again delayed this year and the harvest was nowhere to be seen. But thankfully, the 2010 season has finally begun and I eagerly cupped the teas and they were everything I had hoped they would be - floral with a slight astringency with a soft pine note. Four lots were included - DJ 3, 5, 6 & 7. This translates to the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th lots manufactured this year. The pictures show you the actually cupping procedure - the cup balanced on the bowl with the leaf still in it, the infused leaf on the upturned lid and actual tea of each lot, and one of just the infused leaf to show you the distinct green hue that is the hallmark of a good Darjeeling first flush.
I should be air-freighting a few lots within a few weeks.
