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Although I’ve heard it said that Nilgiri is not particularly to the taste of most English people, I’ve always been a fan. I grew up with it, and consider it to be the king of black teas (apart from Darjeeling, of course, which I really consider to be in a class of its own).

And of the Nilgiri’s I’ve tried, I consider this to be the best. I have it with breakfast every day, sans milk, of course (although it’s also fine with). It’s rich, nutty and aromatic, with a depth of complexity and several layers of tone. It’s very robust, but not at all bitter; there are no harsh tannins that one often detects from a strong black tea. Smooth and refreshing.

I’m on my second brewing of these particular leaves. This is a great everyday tea; the first brew is crisp, and becomes more and more mellow as time goes on.

Again, consumed at the tea bar.

As the site says, very mild, flowery and buttery. Perhaps just the tiniest, tiniest smoky hint, which is not at all unwelcome. A pale cup, but not as much as some Darjeelings.

Opinion on first sippage — excellent, light, well rounded, but perhaps lacking some of the nuance of some Darjeelings. Still thoroughly recommended though.

The usual excellent, grassy flavour, full bodied yet delicate, with a very subtle collection of undertones. Brewed with just a touch of water at the bottom initially, to avoid damaging the tea, before filling the pot.

I’ll be re-steeping multiple times today.

My usual breakfast cup…

Trying a very different brewing method today. Seems to be working well thus far….

I drank this yesterday at Tea Smith’s excellent tea bar. It was lovingly prepared and served with a specifically designed complimentary caramel chocolate. Exceptional.