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Assam Tea: The Gem of India’s Tea Gardens
Nestled in the lush, verdant valleys of Northeast India, Assam is renowned globally for its exceptional teas. This region, enriched by the mighty Brahmaputra River, produces more than half of India’s tea and stands as the world’s largest tea-growing area. Assam tea, with its robust flavour and rich, malty undertones, has captured the hearts of tea enthusiasts worldwide. It is often drunk in England with milk, and is a key component of many Breakfast blends.
A Journey Through History
The story of Assam tea begins in the early 19th century. In 1823, Robert Bruce, a Scottish adventurer, discovered indigenous tea plants in the Assam region, marking the dawn of it’s tea industry. The British East India Company, eager to break China’s monopoly on tea, seized this opportunity. By the 1830s, commercial cultivation began, transforming Assam into a tea powerhouse.
The Unique Climate and Geography
Assam’s unique geography and climate play a pivotal role in producing its distinctive tea. The region enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with high rainfall and humidity, ideal for tea cultivation.
The fertile plains, enriched by the Brahmaputra’s alluvial soil, provide the perfect conditions for growing the Camellia Sinensis Assamica cultivar, the tea plant native to Assam.
Distinctive Characteristics of Assam Tea
What sets Assam tea apart is its bold, brisk flavour profile. Renowned for its bright amber colour and robust taste, often described as malty with a hint of earthiness. This strong character makes it a popular choice for breakfast teas, including the famous and much loved English Breakfast. Assam tea’s full-bodied nature also means it pairs wonderfully with milk and sugar, creating a comforting and invigorating brew.
The Harvesting Process
Assam tea is typically harvested twice a year: the first flush in late March and the second flush in June. The second flush is particularly prized and is characterized by its golden tips and rich, complex flavours. The plucking of the tender two leaves and a bud by skilled hands ensures the highest quality leaves are harvested.
The Art of Tea Production
After harvesting, the tea leaves undergo a meticulous process of withering, rolling, oxidising, and drying. Each step is crucial in developing the tea’s flavour and aromatics. The withering process reduces moisture content, making the leaves pliable for rolling. Rolling breaks down the leaf cells, releasing essential oils. Oxidation, then enhances the tea’s flavours, and finally, drying locks in the tea’s unique characteristics.
Assam Tea in the Global Market
Assam tea enjoys immense popularity across the globe, particularly in the UK, Russia, and the Middle East. It’s a staple in many households and tea blends, appreciated for its invigorating qualities. Assam tea’s versatility also means it’s used in various tea concoctions, such as spiced chai teas.
Sustainable and Ethical Practices
In recent years, there’s been a growing focus on sustainable and ethical tea production in Assam. Initiatives to improve the living and working conditions of tea workers, alongside sustainable farming practices, are gaining momentum. Certifications like Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance are becoming more common, ensuring that Assam tea is produced with care for both the people and the environment.
Brewing the Perfect Cup
To truly appreciate Assam tea, it’s essential to brew it correctly. Here’s a simple guide:
- Boil fresh water: Use fresh, cold water for boiling. Avoid reboiling water as it depletes oxygen levels, affecting the tea’s flavour.
- Warm the teapot: Pour a little hot water into your teapot and swirl it around to warm the pot. Discard the water.
- Measure the tea: Use one teaspoon of tea leaves per cup.
- Add boiling water: Pour boiling water over the tea leaves.
- Steep: Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes. Steeping time can be adjusted based on your strength preference.
- Strain and serve: Strain the tea into your cup and enjoy it plain or with milk and sugar.
Conclusion
With its rich heritage and distinctive flavour, is a testament to the art of tea cultivation and production. From its historical roots to its significant impact on the global tea market, it remains a cherished beverage that continues to bring people together. So, next time you sip a cup of Assam tea, take a moment to appreciate the journey it has taken from the lush gardens of Assam to your teacup.
You can explore our full range of Assam teas here or pop in to the shop and ask us, we have so many beautiful Assam teas for you to explore and enjoy.