This chinary from the northern Himalayan region of Kangra is a surprise of this year's spring. Unlike the restrained and earthy teas that this region is known to produce, this year's black tea is an aromatic delight which places it in the same league as Darjeeling Green First Flush. A heady, sweet, vegetal profile which is smooth, strong and succulent. The tea begins on notes of forest floor and silk tree blossom with hints of blanched legumes that soon give way to cooked vegetables blended with tree fruit that linger on till the finish.

An ideal cup to start a fresh day on the right note and caffeine to power you through. The tea complements flavours like grilled vegetables, sian salds, sushi and tofu quite well.