Vintage Green 2023: A Review of Gopaldhara’s Exquisite Darjeeling Tea

Darjeeling, often referred to as the “Champagne of Teas,” is renowned for its unique and superior quality teas. Among its latest offerings, the Vintage Green 2023 from Gopaldhara Teas, stands out as a testament to this reputation. This review will delve into the sensory experience of this exceptional tea, highlighting its distinct characteristics and flavors.

A Tea of Distinction

The Vintage Green 2023 is an exquisite Darjeeling green tea from the Rohini Tea Estate. This tea is crafted from special green tea clones with negligible tannin content, ensuring a smooth and mellow taste. Only the finest two leaves and a bud are plucked, then gently rolled to prevent breakage, allowing each leaf to unfurl beautifully in the pot during brewing.

The result is a tea that is as visually appealing as it is delightful to the palate. The perfectly plucked and processed leaves are olive green, brewing into a light, smooth, mellow cup. The liquor is a pale yellow, a visual delicacy that belies the rich flavors within.

A Symphony of Flavors

On tasting, the Vintage Green 2023 immediately reveals why Darjeeling is so highly esteemed. The mouthfeel is clean and smooth, with a complexity of flavors that unfold gradually. The initial taste notes are floral and grassy, reminiscent of a lush, verdant garden in full bloom. This is followed by a sweet aftertaste that lingers, a delightful surprise that adds depth to the overall experience.

Despite its rich flavors, this tea is remarkably clean on the palate, with no bitterness and very little astringency. This lack of bitterness is a testament to the careful selection and processing of the tea leaves, resulting in a brew that is as refreshing as it is flavorful.

A Nod to Japanese Green Teas

Interestingly, despite the color of the liquor, the Vintage Green 2023 bears a striking resemblance to Gyokuro and other steamed green teas from Japan, both in aroma and taste. The aroma of the wet leaves is reminiscent of boiled spinach, and the flavor profile aligns more closely with that of steamed (Japanese green) teas, rather than the pan-fired green teas that are commonly associated with China.

However, there is a crucial distinction to note – unlike Gyokuro, this tea does not exhibit any bitterness. This unique characteristic sets the Vintage Green 2023 apart, offering a delightful fusion of the best of Darjeeling and Japanese green teas.

Brewing Instructions

To fully appreciate the Vintage Green 2023, it is essential to follow the correct brewing instructions. Here’s how I brewed this tea:

1. Measure out 2.5g of the Vintage Green 2023 tea leaves.

2. Heat 150ml of water to 85 degrees Celsius. A temperature-controlled kettle can be handy for this, but if you don’t have one, heat the water to a boil and then let it cool for a couple of minutes.

3. Add the hot water to the tea leaves and let them steep for 4 minutes. This allows the leaves to unfurl and release their full flavor.

4. After 4 minutes, strain the tea into your cup, ensuring no leaves are left in the brew.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Vintage Green 2023 from Gopaldhara Teas is a remarkable tea that offers a unique sensory experience. Its rich flavors, smooth mouthfeel, and refreshing aftertaste, combined with the correct brewing method, make it a must-try for any tea enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned tea connoisseur or a novice looking to explore the world of premium teas, the Vintage Green 2023 is sure to impress. Its unique characteristics and brewing method offer a delightful journey into the world of Darjeeling teas, promising a memorable experience with each sip.