| What is special about Darjeeling tea? |
| Darjeeling tea has obtained protection under the geographical indication of source protocol of WTO. Teas from origins other than Darjeeling cannot be referred to as Darjeeling. Orthodox processing is done, not CTC producing a light bright liquor with distinct character and fragrance. |
| What is organic tea? |
| Organic tea is produced by practicing a set of agricultural practices avoiding the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers. These gardens areinspected by certifying agencies under government regulation. |
| What is first flush? |
| First flush refers to the initial growths in spring every year. The best teas are very light and bright with a delicate flavour. Very enjoyable with breakfast. |
| What is second flush? |
| Second flush refers to the secondary growths from the side of the mature first flush stem. The period begins in early May and extends to early July. The best teas are exceptionally smooth with bright amber- gold cups with a prominent muscatel fragrance. These teas are comparable to the best Taiwan Oolongs at a lower price. |
| What are autumnal teas? |
| Autumnal teas become available in limited quantities in October, ending in November. The cups are a bright amber with a well rounded and full taste. Most suited for post dinner consumption. |
| How to brew a good cup of Darjeeling? |
| Click here for brewing tips |
| What is the quality rank of Goomtee? |
| Goomtee is consistently ranked within the top 5 gardens in Darjeeling each year alongwith Jungpana, Castleton, Selimbong, Chamong and Pussimbing. We are holding ISO Quality and HACCP food safety certification. |
| How long does a tea bush live? |
| Truly, nobody knows. Bushes more than a 100 years young are common in Darjeeling. Quality is excellent. Mortality is more a factor of the agricultaral practices and the absence of neglect. |
| How much green leaf is harvested for 1 kilo tea? |
| Like all other vegetable matter, leaf contains 75 to 78% water. So, approximately 4.5 kilo of green leaf is required to produce 1 kilo of tea. |
| What is clonal tea? |
| Clonal teas are processed from a single variety of genetic material which has not been propagated sexually. These teas usually offer an uniform and attractive appearance with well pronounced character. |
| What is the meaning of Muscatel? |
| Muscatel refers to a fragrance identified with grapes from Muscat. The best second flush Darjeelings are known have this attribute. However, many connoiseurs prefer a peachy fragrance. |