Darjeeling Makaibari 2nd Flush Organic

The mineral edge comes through so clearly on the second steep, and the earthiness lingers in a way that feels almost smoky. I’ve had pricier Darjeelings that didn’t taste half this complex, and knowing it’s from an estate that’s been organic since 1859 makes each cup feel a little special.

I was skeptical about fruit notes in a black tea, but the earthiness here is so balanced with the mineral finish that it tastes almost like a fine wine. Brewed it at 3 minutes and got a rich, dark cup that kept me coming back for more.

The mineral note really comes through on the finish, and the fruitiness balances it beautifully without any bitterness. I’ve had a lot of Darjeelings, but this is the first one where I actually taste the "earth" the description promised—it’s smooth enough for a second steep too.