Darjeeling SFTGFOP1 Mission Hill First Flush DJ2/2026 – Black Tea

Brew & Taste

The flavor of this tea can be described as light yet distinct, with the signature natural freshness of spring harvests. The mild grassiness is complemented by a hint of green fruit with powerful floral notes. The overall impression is airy, elegant, and bright. The tea has a light golden color with pure, clear sheen that reflect the evident freshness and careful handling of the young tea leaves.

Origins

In the heart of West Bengal, at the foot of the Himalayan mountains, lies a tea garden by the name of Mission Hill. It produces some of the most exceptional teas, and the first spring harvest of Darjeeling SFTGFOP1 is one of them.

The plantation was established at the start of the 20th century in the Malbazar area in Jalpaiguri. It lies at an altitude of 400-760m, and it’s surrounded by lush forests, irrigated by picturesque water streams and the nearby snowcapped mountains ensure the perfect microclimate for the tea plants. The name is likely referencing Scottish missionaries, since they were very active in the area and even helped developed the local tea industry.

Darjeeling SFTGFOP1 Mission Hill is the perfect example of the so-called first flush teas – the first harvest of the year. Tea garden owners usually hold it from the end of February up until April. During winter, tea plants enter a vegetative state, so once the weather gets warmer, they start growing new leaves. These need to be harvested and processed carefully to retain their fresh, natural properties. The result is a light-colored tea with the aroma of spring, a mild floral taste and the refreshing energy of mountain air. The SFTGFOP1 stands for Special Finest Tippy Golden Flowery Orange Pekoe 1 and signifies the exclusive quality of the leaves.

Darjeeling teas aren’t just any ordinary black teas. Darjeelings are cultivated exclusively in the north Indian area of the same name and are protected under a special label. Thanks to the unique climate, altitude, and soil condition, they have a complex flavor and are often compared to wine, even referred to as the “champagne of teas”.

Tea packaging preview

We pack our teas in a strong, zip-lock aluminum packet which allows you to easily re-seal its contents. This container protects the quality of the tea against humidity, light or foreign odors, all of which could noticeably affect the quality of the brew.