Name: Arya Emerald
Brand: Thunderbolt Tea
Type: Green tea, darjeeling
Form: Loose leaf
Cost: $18.00 for 100 grams (quantity discounts available)
Review: I confess to being somewhat skeptical of non-Chinese or or Japanese green teas: I’ve tried a few standouts, of course, but for the most part, these teas are unappealing, unbalanced and/or just plain uninteresting.
This new offering from Thunderbolt, however, is none of these things. The soft gray-green and silvery leaf is long and twisted, with a subtle, sweet/buttery nose. When infused to a very pale yellow liquor (as light as some white teas that I have tried), the nose remains subtle, though some vegetal notes do emerge.
On the palate, this tea is very light, balanced and smooth, with notes of baby lettuce: It does have some of the typical Darjeeling astringency, but it is mainly in the finish. It also makes for a most refreshing iced tea.
I was surprised by the quality of this tea, and I look forward to trying future efforts from this garden.
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
This makes me think of how a good Darjeeling is actually kind of like a green tea. That’s what I’ve thought. The leaves look green even after they’re steeped and the tea doesn’t taste as “black” as others like Assam. –Teaternity
I have never yet been disappointed by Arya Estates. I must order some of this green – sounds so good. A good second flush or autumnal Darjeeling doesn’t seem very green to me, but most Darjeelings do have an astringent kick, which might make them seem greener.
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Jason: It is a truly delicious tea, and I very much appreciate your insight into how good Darjeelings often have “green” qualities. You are absolutely right, of course!
Marlena: I am normally not wild about Darjeelings, but this one is definitely one to try. Thanks!
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