Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026
Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026

Darjeeling Puttabong First Flush 2026 – Moondrop Limited Edition 2026

SKU: P/EX22/ MOONDROP/ 26

From the iconic Darjeeling estate of Puttabong Tea Estate, the Ex-18 “Moondrop” is a beautifully crafted first flush tea made from a refined blend of chinary clonal bushes (RR17/144), Teesta Valley 1, and AV2 cultivars. This thoughtful combination brings together complexity, aroma, and elegance in the cup.

The leaf undergoes an extended withering of 14.5 hours, reaching a precise 64.74%, allowing for optimal concentration of flavors. A carefully monitored oxidation of 20 minutes enhances its aromatic depth while preserving the freshness typical of first flush teas. Drying at 240°F and meticulous hand sorting ensure both consistency and visual appeal.

The dry leaf is gently well-twisted, evenly graded, and adorned with a fine display of silvery tips—an indicator of careful plucking and craftsmanship. Once infused, the leaves open into a bright green, releasing an intensely floral bouquet that is both uplifting and refined.

In the cup, the liquor is exceptionally sweet and delicate, offering a smooth, lingering mouthfeel. The flavor profile is distinctly first flush—light yet expressive—with pronounced floral notes that bloom across the palate. Subtle hints of spring blossoms and fresh nectar create a graceful complexity, while the finish remains clean, soft, and enduring.

Plucked on 10th March 2026 and manufactured the very next day, this tea captures the freshness and vibrancy of the early harvest season—making it a quintessential expression of premium Darjeeling first flush.



MRP (incl. of all taxes)
Regular priceRs. 3,000.00
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Puttabong Ex-18 “Moondrop” from Darjeeling is a delicate first flush clonal tea with a bright, floral character. It offers a sweet, smooth liquor with intense blossom-like notes, a fresh green infusion, and a clean, lingering finish that reflects the elegance of early spring harvests from Puttabong Tea Estate.

Darjeeling

Chinary clonal bushes RR17/144 and Teesta valley 1, AV2

Single Estate

First Flush

Mr. Rajeev Parekh

MOONDROP

Conventional

Black

This tea is crafted using fine hand plucking, typically consisting of one bud and two tender leaves. This careful selection ensures high concentration of natural sweetness, floral aromatics, and the signature delicacy associated with premium first flush teas from Puttabong Tea Estate.

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ABOUT THE GARDEN

Puttabong Tea Estate, formerly known as Tukvar Tea Estate, is one of the most historic and renowned tea gardens in the Darjeeling region of West Bengal, India. Established in 1852 by Dr. Archibald Campbell, it is widely regarded as the first tea plantation in the Darjeeling hills, playing a pioneering role in the development of Darjeeling tea.

Located about 9 km from Darjeeling town, the estate stretches across scenic Himalayan slopes ranging roughly from 500 to over 6,000 feet in elevation, creating diverse microclimates ideal for producing high-quality Darjeeling teas. The garden spans a large area across several divisions and cultivates a mix of Chinese seed and clonal tea bushes, which are particularly suited to the region’s terroir.

The name “Puttabong” comes from a local Lepcha expression meaning “house of green leaves.” Today the estate is owned and managed by Jay Shree Tea & Industries Ltd., part of the B.K. Birla Group. Puttabong is known globally for its exceptional first flush teas, prized for their delicate floral character and finesse.

Over the years, the estate has achieved several milestones, including producing teas that have fetched record auction prices and becoming one of the first Darjeeling gardens to receive ISO certification for manufacturing, plantation, and marketing.

More Information

BEST TIME TO DRINK

Early Morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM) – Ideal Time

  • Best enjoyed as your first tea of the day
  • Light, fresh flavor gently awakens the senses
  • Perfect without milk, preferably without sugar

Mid-Morning (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM) – Great Option

  • Refreshes the mind without feeling heavy
  • Enhances focus and clarity

BREWING INTRUCTIONS

Use filtered or bottled water.

Heat the water to 95°C.

Put in 2.5 g of loose tea for every cup (180 ml).

Let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes.

Strain into a cup and serve.

tasting note

Leaf:
The dry leaf is gently and skillfully twisted, displaying an even, consistent grade that reflects careful manufacture. A generous presence of fine, silvery tips enhances both its visual appeal and quality indication. The leaf emits a soft, fresh aroma with hints of spring florals and green sweetness, suggesting a vibrant first flush character.

Infusion:
Once steeped, the leaves unfurl into a bright green infusion, a hallmark of light oxidation and early harvest freshness. The nose is intensely floral and expressive—reminiscent of fresh blossoms such as jasmine and wild spring flowers. There is a lively aromatic lift, accompanied by subtle green and slightly sweet vegetal undertones that add depth to the bouquet.

Liquor:
The cup presents a beautifully smooth and sweet liquor with a light, delicate body. On the palate, it reveals classic first flush elegance—soft yet layered with pronounced floral notes that linger gracefully. The sweetness is natural and mouth-coating, balanced by a gentle freshness that keeps the profile clean and refined. The finish is long and aromatic, leaving behind a lingering impression of light florals and a delicate, refreshing aftertaste that defines its premium clonal character.


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