Introduction
This Assam comes from the upper region of the Brahmaputra Valley, also considered the birthplace of the indigenous tea plant varietal ‘Camellia assamica’. Made in mid summer during the second flush season.
GFOP stands for Golden, Flowery, Orange Pekoe. Nothing to do with the flavor orange. This is part of a traditional grading system used in the sub-continent. GFOP typically refers to more earthy, brisk teas.
Brewing Suggestions
Assam teas are renowned for their full flavor and rich, malty aroma. To accentuate these qualities, we recommend using higher temperature water, close to or just before boiling (190 - 200 F), with a proportion of one teaspoon of leaf per 8oz of water. Some recommend water at a full, rolling boil, but in our opinion boiling reduces the oxygen content in good water and gives the tea a “flatter” taste as opposed to a more “lively” taste from slightly cooler water. Steeping time can vary depending on whether you wish to drink with milk or without (Assams take milk very well and are often served with a bit of whole milk). To drink without milk, 3 ½ to 4 ½ minutes is plenty of time to bring out a well balanced sweetness and astringency. With milk, a slightly longer time is required, 5 to 6 minutes, to acquire enough astringency to balance the milk.
