SKU: P/EX60/ The Midnight Orchard/ 26
"The Midnight Orchard" represents a pinnacle of artisanal scenting, where the robust structure of a Puttabong spring black tea is harmoniously unified with the delicate, ethereal essence of fresh pomelo flowers. From the wiry, dark hand-rolled leaves to the bright golden liquor, every element reflects a meticulous oxidation and scenting process. It is a seamless integration where the strength of the tea base provides a perfect foundation for the sophisticated, sweet floral notes, creating a refined experience tailored for the true connoisseur.
Darjeeling
China (Traditionally scented with fresh pomelo flowers)
Single Estate
First Flush
Pooja Majumder
FTGFOP1
Conventional
Black
Fine plucking of tender two leaves and a bud.
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.
Early Morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM) – Ideal Time
Mid-Morning (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM) – Great Option
Early Morning (6:30 AM – 9:00 AM) – Ideal Time
Mid-Morning (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM) – Great Option
Steeping & Serving Suggestions
Temperature: Best enjoyed at a warm temperature rather than piping hot to fully appreciate the delicate floral volatiles.
Dry Leaf: Highly refined, wiry, and tightly twisted hand-rolled leaves. The appearance ranges from deep blackish to chocolate brown, emitting a fresh, sweet floral aroma of pomelo blossoms.
Infusion: Features whole long leaves and buds that unfurl completely. The color transitions from yellow-greenish to coppery, releasing a sweet vegetal scent from the wet leaves.
Liquor: A very bright, golden-orangish cup. The traditional slow-scenting technique allows the highly oxidized spring black tea to complement the pomelo aroma perfectly, resulting in a sophisticated balance.