Balasun

Balasun – Black Tea

Origin: India – Darjeeling

Infusion Temperature: 80° Celsius

Infusion Time: 2-3 minutes

Serving Size: 3 grams/200 ml

Brewing Recommendations: Use filtered water with low mineral residue to fully appreciate the intricate flavors and aromas of this precious tea.

The most exclusive selections of Darjeeling teas this year: the Darjeeling First Flush Balasun, harvested at the end of April from one of the region’s most renowned gardens. Darjeeling teas are often regarded as the “champagne of teas,” and this exquisite selection from the Balasun estate truly embodies that reputation with its refined character and exceptional quality.

Nestled on gently sloping hillsides with an altitude ranging from 375 to 1700 meters above sea level, the Balasun tea estate enjoys an ideal microclimate that nurtures tea bushes to produce leaves of extraordinary complexity and balance. The garden is located near Sonada, a quaint town famous for its proximity to the historic Darjeeling Toy Train and surrounded by breathtaking panoramas including the Tiger Hill, Chatkput Eco Village, and the moss-laden forests of Senchel Reserve rich in rhododendrons, magnolias, and orchids.

The cool temperatures, ranging from 7°C in winter to 30°C in summer, combined with rich soil and steady monsoon rains, create the perfect environment for cultivating Darjeeling’s signature teas. The estate itself, founded in 1871 and now managed by Jay Shree Tea and Industries since 2005, has seen significant investments in infrastructure, worker welfare, and sustainable practices, earning certifications such as Fair Trade (FLO-CERT), HACCP (TUV-NORD), Organic (IMO), and Rainforest Alliance (SAN/IMO).

The Balasun First Flush is an exceptional black tea that surprises with its floral elegance, muscatel sweetness, and delicate honeyed undertones hallmarks of expert craftsmanship and the unique terroir of Darjeeling. Although freshly harvested and promptly shipped, this tea is remarkably mature, exhibiting a well-rounded and harmonious profile that invites a refined tasting experience.

Unlike typical black teas, Darjeeling first flush teas straddle the line between black and green tea in oxidation level, leaning closer to the lighter and more delicate green tea spectrum. This nuance is evident in the leaf appearance and the tea’s bright, clear infusion.

For an alternative and refreshing experience, the Balasun Darjeeling black tea also excels when prepared as a cold brew, which enhances its subtle floral and muscatel notes.

Balasun estate’s legacy dates back to the late 19th century, originally named Nahore Balasun after the local Lepcha dialect and renamed after the Balasun river flowing through the property. Since Jay Shree Tea and Industries’ acquisition in 2005, the garden has undergone comprehensive modernization and ecological stewardship.

Efforts have focused on upgrading factory facilities with the latest technologies, improving employee welfare, and implementing planned reforestation to protect the local climate. These investments have significantly improved both the quality and yield of the tea produced, maintaining Balasun’s status as a leader in the Darjeeling tea industry.

Darjeeling First Flush teas represent the very first harvest of the year, harvested from March to April during the cooler spring months. This early harvest is prized for its tender leaves, fresh aroma, and bright liquor-qualities that connoisseurs seek and cherish.

The Balasun First Flush, with its fine balance of floral, muscatel, and honey notes, offers an elegant and rewarding tea experience. Its superior craftsmanship, sustainable origin, and impeccable quality make it a prized addition to any tea collection and a perfect choice for discerning tea lovers seeking authenticity and refinement.

Experience the incomparable charm of Darjeeling’s “champagne of teas” with the First Flush Balasun a true masterpiece from one of India’s most celebrated tea gardens.