At a glance: Organic Darjeeling Phuguri first flush, grade SFTGFOP1, spring harvest. Floral notes, muscatel freshness. Steep 2 to 4 min at 212°F (100°C), 13 g/L.
Darjeeling Phuguri is one of the most beautiful secrets of the Himalayan foothills in India. Each spring, this high-altitude garden yields a precious harvest of fine, twisted leaves dotted with bright buds.
The SFTGFOP1 grade (Super Fine Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe 1) represents the pinnacle of Darjeeling classification: whole leaves, rich in golden tips, hand-sorted. Julien Huot selected this lot for its rare balance between floral brightness and muscatel depth. Explore our exceptional teas, alongside the Yin Zhen (Silver Needle) and our Lung Ching Superior range.
The Aromatic Profile of Darjeeling Phuguri
The infusion reveals a luminous golden-yellow liquor, almost radiant. On the nose, delicate floral notes are lifted by the fresh, vegetal character that is the hallmark of first flush teas, a signature of Darjeeling's early-season harvests.
On the palate, the experience unfolds in three layers: a lively, floral first impression, a delicate muscatel heart evoking fresh grapes, then a long, gently astringent finish that leaves a pleasant, almost sparkling sensation. Unblended and unscented, this tea expresses the full character of its terroir, lot after lot.
Savor this grand cru mindfully, or discover our Java Halimun Jade oolong to continue your exploration of rare teas.
How to Prepare Darjeeling Phuguri
Preparation makes all the difference with a tea of this quality. Use 13 g of leaves per liter of water (approximately 2 teaspoons for a 10 fl oz teapot), water at 212°F (100°C) with a low mineral content, and steep for 2 to 4 minutes.
Taste at 2 minutes, then adjust to your preference: a shorter steep brings out the floral freshness, while a longer infusion deepens the muscatel roundness and complexity of the cup. A porcelain teapot or a gaiwan works beautifully, respecting the whole leaves and allowing their full aromatic expression to unfold.
This tea is best enjoyed in the morning, plain, without milk or sugar, so nothing stands in the way of its subtle aromas. It pairs elegantly with a lightly sweetened pastry, fresh fruit, or simply a quiet moment.
Storage
Store the leaves in an airtight, opaque container, away from light, heat, and strong odors. For the best aromatic vibrancy, enjoy within twelve months of purchase to make the most of this spring harvest's freshness. For a warming moment in colder months, you can also explore winter black tea rituals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Darjeeling Phuguri?
It is a fine black tea grown on the Phuguri garden in the Darjeeling region of India. The SFTGFOP1 grade denotes the highest quality whole leaves, rich in golden tips from the spring buds.
How do I prepare Darjeeling Phuguri?
Use 13 g of leaves per liter of water at 212°F (100°C), and steep for 2 to 4 minutes depending on your preferred strength. Enjoy plain, without milk or sugar, to preserve the full delicacy of the aroma.
What does Darjeeling Phuguri taste like?
The cup reveals elegant floral notes, a muscatel freshness reminiscent of fresh grapes, and a gently astringent finish characteristic of high-altitude spring harvests.
Where does Darjeeling Phuguri come from?
This tea comes from the Phuguri garden in the Darjeeling region, in northeastern India, on the Himalayan foothills renowned for their high-altitude teas.