1ST Flush Gopaldhara Wonder Gold Tea - Darjeeling March 16, 2021 14:39

Just Arrived

Without doubt one of the great examples of the best of Darjeeling.  So much flavour and character.  We find it enjoyable because it can be steeped at a variety of temperatures and times that change the flavours and aromas markedly. From an almost green Bi Luo Chun at shorter infusion times to a more classic Darjeeling for longer more intense infusion times.  It has a smooth crispness to it with notes of everything from citrus and passionfruit to apricot. At shorter infusion times look to the hay and honey notes.

The Tea Estate

In 1881, the tea estate was developed in the lush green paddy fields owned by a person named 'Gopal'. 'Dhara' is a small stream in the local Nepali language. Gopal's paddy fields were interspersed with many small streams. Put together the name became "Gopaldhara".

 Gopaldhara Tea Estate, “one of Darjeeling’s pride”, is one of the highest tea estates in Darjeeling. Out of a total area of 320 ha (790 acres), 172 ha (430 acres) have been planted with tea. Most of the estate is between 5,500 to 7,000 feet (1,700 to 2,100 m) and a sizeable area of 60 ha (150 acres) is at an average elevation of 6,500 ft (2,000 m). The high altitudes of Darjeeling offer a perfect combination of moisture and sunlight ideal for mature high quality tea leaves. The cloud cover helps the aroma to linger on. Gopaldhara Tea Estate produces premium tea, most of which is exported. As a result of the cooler environments at great heights, tea plants grow at a slower pace.

The Tea

https://www.maitea.co.nz/gopaldhara-wonder-gold

Tasting Notes:
- Incredible floral aroma
- Smooth taste with apricot notes with a crisp finish

Harvest: First Flush, April 2020
Grade: FTGFOP1
Altitude: 1,800m
Cultivar: AV2 and B137
Origin: Gopaldhara Tea Estate, Darjeeling, India
Brewing Advice:
- Heat water to roughly 95°C
- Use 1-2 teaspoons per cup/small teapot
- Brew for 2-4 minutes