Darjeeling FTGFOP 1 First Flush Organic Black Tea

Darjeeling First Flush is widely regarded as one of the great crus of the black tea world. Our FTGFOP 1 blend brings together the finest leaves of the first spring harvest, gathered when the tea plants, awakening after winter, yield their most tender and delicate young shoots.

Julien Huot selected this harvest for its rare aromatic clarity: a bright, almost golden cup that surprises with its fresh, vegetal character and delicate floral notes. our organic black tea selection and let yourself be guided through the black teas experts love most.

The Aromatic Profile of Darjeeling First Flush

This Indian grand cru stands apart from other black teas with a truly distinctive aromatic signature. The first flush produces tender, lightly oxidised leaves, giving the infusion a pale, luminous colour that can almost be mistaken for a very light green tea.

• Top notes: floral, fresh, lightly herbaceous
• Heart notes: muscatel, white fruit, sweet almond
• Base notes: gentle tannic roundness, long and velvety finish

The flavour differs markedly from a second flush, which tends to be fuller-bodied and more woody. Here, the focus is on refinement and elegance rather than power. This is a tea for those who appreciate true delicacy.

To better understand what sets this harvest apart, take a look at our green tea vs. black tea comparison. You might also enjoy our petit biscuit black tea for a more indulgent option.

How to Brew Darjeeling First Flush

A little care in preparation brings out everything this grand cru has to offer. Follow these guidelines for a balanced, rewarding cup:

• Water: filtered or low-mineral, brought to 100°C
• Quantity: 13 g per litre, around 2.5 g for a 200 ml cup
• Steeping time: 2 to 4 minutes, depending on desired strength
• Accessories: porcelain or glass teapot, wide-mesh infuser to allow the leaves to fully open

Enjoy it plain, without milk or sugar, to let the floral delicacy shine through. A cup in the morning pairs beautifully with a quiet moment to yourself. To explore further, black tea.

Storage

Store this tea in its original tin, tightly sealed, away from light, moisture and strong odours. Packaged in our workshop, it will retain its full aromatic bouquet for 18 to 24 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Darjeeling First Flush?
First Flush refers to the very first harvest of the year, typically in March and April, from high-altitude gardens in India. The leaves, still young and lightly oxidised, produce a pale, fresh and delicately floral tea, considered one of the world's great crus.

How do I brew Darjeeling First Flush?
Use 13 g per litre of water at 100°C and steep for 2 to 4 minutes. Choose low-mineral water and a porcelain teapot. Drink it plain to fully appreciate its floral aromas.

What does Darjeeling First Flush taste like?
Expect fresh floral notes on the first sip, a muscatel heart with hints of white fruit and sweet almond, then a velvety finish. The infusion is pale, light and long on the palate, quite unlike a classic black tea.

What is the difference between First Flush and Second Flush?
Second Flush, harvested in May and June, produces a more oxidised, fuller-bodied tea with pronounced woody and muscatel notes. First Flush favours floral finesse and freshness, while Second Flush leans toward roundness and depth.