In a nutshell: our organic Assam GFBOP Sewpur black tea is malty and smooth. Steep for 3 to 4 minutes at 100°C (12–15 g/L) for a copper-hued, full-bodied cup with a naturally sweet finish, perfect to start the day.
Assam black tea is one of those great classics our house takes pleasure in selecting with care. This Sewpur estate tea, graded GFBOP (Golden Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe), comes from a well-regarded garden in north-eastern India and carries an aromatic signature unlike any other.
Grown organically, it appeals equally to those who love a bold cup and to curious tea drinkers in search of an honest single-origin. Julien Huot, founder of Thés & Traditions, chose Sewpur for its rare balance of strength and roundness.
The aromatic profile of Assam GFBOP Sewpur
In the teapot, the broken leaves release a distinctive fragrance: warm malted notes, hints of amber honey and a subtle woody undertone. The liquor steeps to a deep copper, almost mahogany, the hallmark of a great Assam.
On the palate, the first impression is bold and direct, yet never astringent. The heart of the cup opens into a naturally sweet, almost caramelised roundness, followed by a long finish with nuances of ripe fruit and toasted bread.
This profile comes down to several factors. First, the region: the Brahmaputra Valley in India offers a warm, humid climate found nowhere else in the tea world. Then there is the Sewpur garden itself, which tends its plots with organic care.
The GFBOP grade indicates broken leaves containing golden buds (the famous "golden tips"). These young shoots soften the brew and bring those honeyed notes that define the finest Assams.
If you enjoy this malty style, you might also explore our moka thé, a more indulgent take with coffee-like accents, or our cococabana black tea for a more exotic twist. Browse our black teas to keep the tasting journey going throughout the seasons.
How to brew Assam GFBOP Sewpur black tea
Brewing makes all the difference. An Assam steeped poorly turns bitter; brewed just right, it yields a silky, warming cup. Here are our in-house brewing guidelines.
- Water: low in minerals, freshly brought to 100°C (just at a rolling boil).
- Quantity: 12 to 15 g per litre, roughly a heaped tablespoon for a large teapot.
- Steeping time: 3 to 4 minutes, adjusted to taste (3 min for a lighter cup, 4 min for a fuller body).
- Teapot: porcelain, glass or pre-warmed cast iron, all of which bring out the roundness of the broken leaves well.
Try it plain in the morning: the natural sweetness of this estate tea speaks for itself. You can also add a splash of plant-based or dairy milk in the classic British fashion, which draws out the malty character and turns it into something truly comforting.
For a broader look at brewing methods and styles, our black tea comparison guide offers a helpful overview, while our green tea vs. black tea article can help you choose the right cup for the right moment.
Storing your Assam Sewpur
Packed in our workshop, this tea keeps best in its original sealed tin, away from light, moisture and strong odours (spices, coffee). An opaque metal caddy in a dry cupboard will preserve the freshness of both whole and broken leaves for 18 to 24 months.
Avoid the refrigerator, which introduces moisture and stray aromas. Seal the tin carefully after each use: that simple habit is the best guarantee that every cup will deliver the same malty, rounded character. Savour our single-origin black teas as part of an easy, everyday ritual.
Frequently asked questions
What does Assam black tea taste like?
Assam offers a full-bodied, malty, round cup with a naturally sweet quality, notes of honey, ripe fruit and toasted bread. Its copper-hued liquor and sturdy body make it an ideal morning tea, on its own or with a splash of milk.
How do you brew Assam black tea?
Steep 12 to 15 g of leaves per litre of water at a rolling boil (100°C) for 3 to 4 minutes. Pre-warm your teapot, measure generously, and adjust the steeping time depending on whether you prefer a lighter cup (3 min) or a fuller one (4 min).
Where does Assam black tea come from?
Assam is grown in the Brahmaputra Valley in north-eastern India. This warm, humid region provides uniquely favourable conditions for the tea plant. Our Sewpur estate tea comes from an organic garden known for the fineness of its GFBOP leaves.
Where can I buy quality Assam black tea?
Look for a tea house that selects its gardens directly and prioritises organic farming. At Thés & Traditions, our Assam teas are chosen from identified estates, such as Sewpur, to ensure full traceability and consistent quality, cup after cup.
What does the GFBOP grade mean?
GFBOP stands for Golden Flowery Broken Orange Pekoe: broken leaves containing golden buds (golden tips). These young shoots soften the infusion and contribute the characteristic honeyed notes. It is a grade recognised for its balance of strength and smoothness. To explore the topic further, visit our black tea guide.
