The Ultimate Guide to Brewing Darjeeling Tea

The Art of Brewing Darjeeling Tea

Darjeeling tea is the champagne of teas — and like champagne, it deserves to be treated with care. Brewing it correctly unlocks its full muscatel character, floral aroma, and golden liquor. Here's the definitive guide.

The Golden Rules of Darjeeling Tea Brewing

• Water temperature: 85-90°C — never boiling
• Tea quantity: 2g per 200ml of water
• Steeping time: 3-4 minutes for First Flush; 4-5 minutes for Second Flush
• Water quality: Use filtered or spring water
• No milk: Best enjoyed without milk to appreciate its full character

Step-by-Step Brewing Guide

1. Heat filtered water to 85-90°C
2. Warm your teapot or cup by rinsing with hot water
3. Add 2g of Darjeeling loose leaf tea per 200ml
4. Pour water over the leaves and steep for 3-5 minutes
5. Strain immediately and enjoy

Common Brewing Mistakes to Avoid

• Using boiling water — destroys delicate flavor compounds
• Over-steeping — creates bitterness
• Adding milk — masks the muscatel character
• Using hard tap water — minerals interfere with flavor